Alabama defenses have struggled to contain dual-threat quarterbacks in the past, and the trend could continue this weekend for the Crimson Tide.
In all likelihood, Alabama’s defense will see two South Carolina quarterbacks. Redshirt freshman LaNorris Sellers is the starting quarterback, but he occasionally rotates with senior Robby Ashford.
Sellers suffered an injury during the LSU game in week three. As a result, the Gamecocks had to turn to Ashford. He made one start this season for the Gamecocks. It came in week four against Akron. However, the Gamecocks have inserted Ashford in the gameplan on a week-to-week basis and rightfully so.
During a press conference earlier in the week, South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer pointed out that Ashford and Sellers were two of the best athletes on the roster. He also emphasized the importance of getting the football in his playmaker’s hands.
The two quarterback-system has its pros and cons. For one, it presents challenges for the opposing defense, which will be Alabama this weekend. It is difficult for defensive coaches to prepare to see two quarterbacks, because each one brings something different to the table.
Two years ago, Alabama faced Ashford when he was the starting quarterback at Auburn. He struggled significantly to move the ball down the field through the air. However, he did rush for 121 yards and two touchdowns.
In the first five games, Ashford and Sellers have combined to have 89 carries for 372 yards and four touchdowns. It goes without saying that they are more than capable of keeping opposing defenses on their toes.
Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack and the defensive coaching staff will need to be able to quickly adjust and gameplan for each of their skillsets. If they are unable to, Alabama’s defense could have another week where they struggle to get off the field and allow a lot of points.
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