Even with between 18,000 to 20,000 fans in attendance, an atmosphere was created inside Bryant-Denny Stadium for the University of Alabama’s home opener against Texas A&M.
Jimbo Fisher and the Aggies provided a test, despite the Crimson Tide leading 35-14 at halftime.
After a pair of scoring drives to start the game, Alabama had a turnover and a three-and-out on offense that resulted in touchdown drives for Kellen Mond and the Aggies. In coming off a strong performance versus Missouri, Mac Jones kicked off the matchup completing seven of seven passes — including a 78-yard score to John Metchie. He had a pass that was deflected and intercepted by DeMarvin Leal, which resulted in Mond finding Ryan Renick for a touchdown in the red zone to tie the game.
Jones completed 16 of 20 passes for 273 yards with two touchdowns and one pick.
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The defensive front of Texas A&M has made it difficult for Alabama to run the ball. Najee Harris totaled 98 yards rushing with three touchdowns versus the Tigers; however, the Aggies held him to 32 yards on 10 carries.
He does have two scores.
When it comes to the 2019 A-Day connection between Jones and John Metchie, it is still alive and well.
Jones found Metchie four times for a game-high 118 receiving yards with a score. Jaylen Waddle has four catches for 55 yards, while DeVonta Smith has 51 yards on four receptions with a touchdown. Harris and Miller Forristall each recorded two receptions from Jones.
Defensively, Alabama has had some success affecting Mond in the passing game.
Regardless of both of his scoring passes coming on coverage busts, the Tide’s defensive front has yet to record a sack. Mond has completed 11 of 22 passes for 148 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.
Ainias Smith is the leader receiver for Texas A&M, tallying 48 yards on two catches. Smith maintained his balance on a 47-yard catch and run for a touchdown in the first quarter. Christian Harris leads Alabama with five total tackles.
A trio of players, including Josh Jobe, has three tackles. The Tide also has a quartet of players, including Dylan Moses, have two stops apiece.
Although he had couple of mistakes, Daniel Wright redeemed himself in the second quarter with a 48-yard interception return for a touchdown.
He records the first defensive score of the season for the Tide under Nick Saban.
After holding Missouri to three points and inconsistent play in the first half, the Crimson Tide has to adjust versus the Aggies.
Alabama holds the edge in total yards, 314-219, but it has to lock down the Aggies in the second half.
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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.
