The first half of the best opening game in college football history saw both offenses find some level of success, but that didn’t result in much scoring for either team.
Alabama currently leads 10-7 after blocking a 37-yard field goal attempt from Ricky Aguayo right before the half. That wasn’t the first missed field goal in this game, however. Ole Miss grad transfer Andy Pappanastos missed a 42-yard field goal of his own earlier in the game, proving the kicking woes still haunt the Crimson Tide.
While Alabama’s offense showed inconsistency moving the football, sophomore quarterback Jalen Hurts has shown a tremendous amount of improvement. The former SEC Offensive Player of the Year found junior wide receiver Calvin Ridley on a 53-yard pass that went for a touchdown early into the second quarterback. In addition, Hurts did a nice job of eluding pressure from Florida State’s impressive defensive front while also throwing the ball away when he wasn’t given anything.
The improvement from Hurts is a welcomed sight for Alabama fans, and the hope is that he can continue to improve as a passer as the season wears on. For now, Alabama is going to need more from their running backs. Outside of Damien Harris, who ran for 47 yards on only 5 carries, none of the other running backs have found much success.
It’ll be interesting to see how Saban and Fisher adjust to each other’s strategies in the second half, but don’t be surprised to see more shots downfield from Hurts.
