It was a sloppy performance for the University of Alabama versus South Florida until the final six minutes of the game.
Alabama football exploded for 28 points on offense after making one change. Elijah Pritchett, a redshirt sophomore, replaced Wilkin Formby at right tackle and the Crimson Tide took off.
Running lanes opened for Jam Miller and Justice Haynes, as both broke free for long rushing touchdowns. Pritchett also protected Jalen Milroe to toss two touchdown passes in a 42-16 win.
RELATED: Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor makes huge strides ahead of Wisconsin game
The 6-foot-6, 327-pounder did a lot, but was it enough for Tide fans to see more of him against Wisconsin?
Pritchett emerged from the game healthy after dealing with an ankle issue during the week.
Kalen DeBoer updated Pritchett’s status in Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference. Pritchett, like Kadyn Proctor, is in a ‘good spot’ for Saturday’s game.
“He finished the game out on Saturday and really had no more setbacks, which was great,” DeBoer said. “Something we were just concerned about and dd not want that to hold him back. … He is in a good spot right now, as well.”
Alabama is working through its plan for the offensive line. Proctor’s injury forced Tyler Booker to left tackle, Geno VanDeMark to left guard, and Formby to right tackle against the Bulls. He has been able to practice, so his return for Wisconsin should put the Tide where it needs to be up front.
Pritchett, a native of Columbus, Ga., did enough last week to warrant more playing time in Alabama’s first road test versus the Badgers.
He should start at right tackle, making the Tide’s unit from left to right as Proctor, Booker, Parker Brailsford, Jaeden Roberts, and Pritchett.
The Crimson Tide should have this as the starting unit and go with it.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
