Alabama faced adversity in “The Swamp” and won, but its fans are nervous about what’s to come in two weeks.
The Crimson Tide allowed 200+ yards rushing and four rushing touchdowns to the Gators, and quarterback Emory Jones generated plays in the passing game. Despite earning a 31-29 victory, Alabama’s defensive problems surfaced again.
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Missed tackles, penalties, and a lack of intensity frustrated Nick Saban.
Florida’s offense was on its 1-yard line; however, Jones guided it 99 yards for a score. Dan Mullen’s unit had more first downs (26 to 19), rushing yards (276 to 106), total yards (439 to 324), and total plays (70 to 62). A missed extra point ended up being the difference in the game. Florida tried a two-point conversion, but it did not work. Coach Saban got on the players about not having intensity and focus last week against Mercer. The message was not received, as Alabama hung on to escape Florida.
During his presser, Saban said he’s not seeing the defensive execution.
“The big thing to learn for our players is we continue to maintain intensity throughout the game,” he said. “All in all, it was just our execution on defense and the fact that we didn’t get off the field on third down.”
Maybe this is the adversity the players need to push them. The Tide will return home next week to face Southern Mississippi, and then it will host Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss on Saturday, Oct. 2 at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
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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.
