Just 15 seconds into the game and the top-ranked Crimson Tide were already boasting a 7-0 lead after Damien Harris got loose for a 75-yard score on the first play from scrimmage. On the ensuing possession, Arkansas’ punter muffed the ball and inexplicably and unsuccessfully tried to pass it down field after picking it back up. This would give the Tide excellent field position and lead to a Pappanastos field goal and a 10-0 lead.
A few minutes later, Alabama was knocking on the door of the endzone when Damien Harris willed himself into the endzone for the second time of the day giving Alabama a comfortable 17-0 lead early in the first quarter. This sequence went on to set the tone for the day as Alabama never looked back, winning 41-9.
Damien Harris once again led the team in rushing with 125 yards on his nine carries, Bo Scarbrough ran for 65 yards on seven carries, Hurts had 41 on 10, and Jacobs notched 39 yards on nine of his own. Hurts and the two Harris’s were the three with rushing touchdowns.
The passing game was a little off early on but came on strong eventually. Jalen Hurts went 12-of-19 for 155 yards and a score but was also picked off for the first time all season by Kevin Richardson in the second quarter. Calvin Ridley led the receivers, per usual, with 51 yards on four catches. Ruggs, who struggled on special teams, hauled in the solo passing touchdown of the night from 20 yards out.
Defensively, Rashaan Evans and Mack Wilson were a nightmare for Arkansas’ new quarterback. Evans was in the backfield all night long while Wilson got his hand o more than a few passes and intercepting one on an impressive lay out.
Tennessee comes to town next week off of a loss to South Carolina. Assuming Butch Jones survives the week, he will be fighting for his job and on his final straws.
