It was not a statement victory, but Alabama football returns to the win column.
After an overtime loss to LSU, the Crimson Tide defeated Ole Miss at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Alabama improves to 8-2 on the season after a 30-24 victory over the Rebels. Bryce Young bounced back with a strong game, completing 21 of 33 passes for 209 yards and three touchdowns. For scores, he connected with Cameron Latu, Jermaine Burton, and Ja’Corey Brooks.
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Jase McClellan led the Tide in rushing with 84 yards on 19 carries. He started building momentum behind the offensive line in the second half. Eight different receivers caught one pass from Young while Burton had five receptions.
Brooks, a sophomore, led Alabama in receiving yards (61) with a touchdown in the third quarter.
Alabama’s defense allowed 407 yards to Ole Miss, but it stiffened when needed.
Mississippi totaled two rushing scores with Quinshon Judkins, but the Crimson Tide did not allow many explosive plays from Rebels’ quarterback Jaxson Dart in the passing game. He tossed one touchdown and receiver Malik Heath totaled 123 yards receiving on six catches, but Alabama’s secondary was not tested much. DeMarcco Hellams shared the team lead for tackles (11).
Byron Young, a senior defensive lineman, played inspired from start to finish. He totaled 11 tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, two quarterback hurries, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup. NFL scouts saw the native Mississippian at his best.
Terrion Arnold totaled 10 tackles and two pass breakups.
Brian Branch collected eight total tackles, including two stops for loss. Will Anderson had four tackles, a sack, and a tackle for loss. Deontae Lawson, a redshirt freshman, posted two pass breakups and six tackles. Alabama’s defense rose in the second half and found a way to win the game. The Tide faces Austin Peay next week 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.
