Can Alabama exploit South Carolina’s weaknesses up front?

Alabama’s defense recorded a season-low, zero sacks in the Crimson Tide’s loss to Vanderbilt.

The Crimson Tide struggled to generate any kind of pressure on Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia. While it might seem far-fetched, there is reason to believe that Alabama’s defense could bounce back in a big way this weekend against South Carolina.

The Gamecocks’ biggest struggle this season has been protecting the passer. South Carolina has surrendered 22 sacks in give games. Their starting quarterback LaNorris Sellers has been sacked 16 times and backup quarterback Robby Ashford has been sacked six times.

Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack and the Crimson Tide defense are looking to make a statement. This could be a great opportunity to do so.

Players like Que Robinson, LT Overton, Qua Russaw, and Keanu Koht should each have opportunities to create pressure and potentially record some sacks this weekend. The Gamecocks starting left tackle — Josiah Thompson is a true freshman. Wommack and the defensive coaching staff could look to exploit his youth and inexperience by giving him multiple different looks off the edge.

It is clear that South Carolina’s biggest weakness is its offensive line. I would expect the Crimson Tide to take full advantage of that by dialing up pressure early and often.

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