Seth McLaughlin was an unheralded star in the SEC Championship Game for Alabama.
He came off the bench in the second half of the Iron Bowl to replace Darrian Dalcourt at center.
McLaughlin stabilized the offensive line and helped Bryce Young succeed on a 97-yard touchdown drive to tie the game at 10. A native of Buford, Ga., the sophomore got the starting nod versus Georgia in the SEC title game.
He neutralized Bulldogs’ defensive tackle Jordan Davis, keeping him away from Young. Davis did not record a sack or a quarterback pressure.
McLaughlin’s protection allowed Young to record an SEC Championship record for passing yards (421) and four touchdowns.
He also aided the Crimson Tide to total 536 yards offensively — the most Georgia allowed all season. Evan Neal, a junior, said McLaughlin ‘answered the bell’ versus Georgia.
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“I’m extremely proud of Seth,” Neal said. “That was his first start, and it took a lot of guts.”
Neal said it did not surprise him to see McLaughlin excel. He is the latest member of Alabama’s next man up mindset.
The Tide has created some depth at the center position. McLaughlin should start in the College Football Playoff, but Alabama has Dalcourt, Chris Owens, and James Brockermeyer.
Alabama fans look forward to watching McLaughlin do work versus Cincinnati.
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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.
