Colorado State made a surge in the second half, but the University of Alabama football program emerged with a 41-23 win on last week at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
As the team prepares for its Southeastern Conference opener versus Vanderbilt, the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff named 10 players of the week on Monday.
With four guys being recognized on offense, yours truly now breaks down all 10 individuals that were rewarded by the staff.
OFFENSE
Jalen Hurts, QB
Damien Harris, RB
Bo Scarbrough, RB’
Bradley Bozeman, OL
Summary: He’s been effective in the last two weeks, but Jalen Hurts has found a rhythm in the passing game.
After completing 77.8 percent of his throws against Fresno State, he connected on 70.6 percent versus Colorado State and totaled 351 yards offensively with three touchdowns.
The duo of Bo Scarbrough and Damien Harris combined for 119 yards rushing and two touchdowns against the Rams.
Scarbrough turned in 66 yards rushing and 36 yards receiving (three catches) to pair with his score. Harris pounded his way for 53 rushing yards on 11 carries, while averaging nearly five yards (4.8) per attempt.
Bradley Bozeman cleared the way for 487 yards on 60 plays. He did not commit a penalty nor did he allow a sack of Hurts.
Behind Bozeman, Hurts compiled 248 passing yards, 103 rushing yards and three scores. He followed assignments in converting seven of 12 third downs.
DEFENSE
Keith Holcombe, LB
Da’Ron Payne, DL
Levi Wallace, DB
Summary: In his second consecutive start, Keith Holcombe carried a team-high nine total tackles versus Colorado State.
He executed solid coverage in the passing lane, while delivering secure tackles in space. Holcombe was credited with a pass breakup in the second half.
Da’Ron Payne finished tied for second with six tackles.
Although his performance against the run must improve – Rams with 40 carries for 144 yards – he did have a pass breakup and a quarterback hurry.
Levi Wallace posted a game-high four pass breakups.
He kept himself in perfect coverage to go along with chiming in with five tackles. Even with the pair of touchdowns Nick Stevens threw, neither of the two came with Wallace in coverage.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Andy Pappasnastos, PK
JK Scott, P
Mack Wilson, LB
Summary: Senior kicker Andy Pappanastos gave Alabama fans a pleasant surprise when he nailed two long distance field goals of 43 and 46 yards.
He also put in five made extra points in the Tide’s victory, en route to earning his first weekly award from the coaching staff.
JK Scott had two punts, but both pinned the Rams inside the 20-yard line. He averaged 50 yards per boot, including one that traveled 59 yards.
Mack Wilson amassed four total tackles, with a couple happening on special teams. He earned his second weekly honor after getting his first two weeks ago versus Florida State in Atlanta.
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.
