Redshirt sophomore Matt Womack may have given himself some separation from surging freshman Jedrick Wills in the battle for starting right tackle, following his performance versus Fresno State last week at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Womack graded out at 90 percent on blocking assignments and did not commit a penalty, or allow a sack or a quarterback hurry.
He cleared the way for 305 rushing yards – including a game-high 154 yards from sophomore quarterback Jalen Hurts with two touchdowns and 70 yards rushing via freshman Najee Harris.
Behind the three-star offensive lineman from Mississippi, Hurts was credited with this fifth career 100-yard rushing game. Womack was also strong in pass protection, aiding his quarterback to 14 of 18 completions for 128 yards and a touchdown.
He was one of six players to receive Southeastern Conference honors, joining Shea Patterson (Ole Miss), Deebo Samuel (South Carolina), Lorenzo Carter (Georgia), Ty Chandler (Tennessee) and Jeffrey Simmons (Mississippi State). Womack would also be one five Crimson Tide players of the week via Alabama’s coaching staff, alongside Jalen Hurts, Anthony Averett, Keith Holcombe and Mack Wilson.
The 6-foot-7, 324-pounder saw action in nine games last season as a reserve offensive tackle, including the SEC Championship Game against the Florida Gators.
He was one of seven linemen (five offensive) signed in Alabama’s 2015 class, and following the touchdowns from Hurts and tight end Hale Hentges, Womack was the first to celebrate.
Head coach Nick Saban desires to see more consistency from the offensive front moving forward, but he was pleased with the overall execution of plays versus the Bulldogs.
“Offensive line did a better job in this game,” Saban said during today’s presser.
“Matt Womack has worked really hard. He’s a tough guy so this means a lot to him. He’s improved his pass protection and has developed an attitude to play winning football.”
Womack and company will return to practice today, as it prepares for a matchup against Colorado State this weekend at home.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
