Even in defeat, a son was born in the Iron Bowl.
People questioned whether Mac Jones could lead the team when Tua Tagovailoa was healthy, and the doubters only grew after the junior suffered a season-ending hip injury versus Mississippi State. He was high school state champion at The Bolles School before coming to Alabama and on Saturday, Crimson Tide fans saw the heart of a young man who battled.
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Jones, a redshirt sophomore, faced much adversity in his first start against Auburn at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
In playing one of college football’s best defensive fronts, he took a lot of hits and had two turnovers – both returned for touchdowns – however, Jones consistently fought back and tried to put the team in the best position to win. He stood in the pocket and collected a season-high 335 passing yards and four touchdowns. When the Tide trailed 48-45 late in regulation, Jones converted a critical third down with his feet – despite a raucous crowd.
He targeted six different receivers, but his favorite one was Jaylen Waddle.
The two sophomores connected for three scores, while Jones’ other scoring toss went to Henry Ruggs III. He navigated Alabama to 35 of its 45 points and pushed it 515 yards offensively, but it just wasn’t enough.
Penalties and undisciplined play on defense led the Tigers earning a 48-45 victory, as it handed the Tide its second loss of the year.
Not only is Alabama out of contention for the College Football Playoff, but this is also the fourth loss of Saban’s career versus a ranked group for the Tigers. Jones gave a valiant effort and like his predecessors Blake Sims and Jacob Coker, sometimes your heart is revealed more so in defeat than in victory.
Alabama takes this one on the chin, but fans should be very proud of Jones.
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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 @CoachingMSmith.
