As expected, Alabama jumped on Mercer in the opening two quarters of Saturday’s action as it leads the Bears 31-7 at the break.
The Crimson Tide continued to build on its dominating win from a week ago, but there are still a few key areas the team must continue to execute in the second half to drive home its performance.
Jalen Milroe must continue to sharpen the pass game
Jalen Milroe wasn’t asked to do too much through the air a week ago due to Alabama’s rushing onslaught which continued today against Mercer as it put up over 96 rushing yards in the first.
So far Milroe has remained efficient through the air for Alabama completing 9-of-14 passes for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Although the offensive identity remains a run first attack, now is as good an opportunity as ever for the Texas native to continue to sharpen up the passing game.
Milroe has already connected on touchdown passes to Ryan Williams and Robbie Ouzts for long scores along with a big gainer to Germie Bernard. So at least for the opening minutes of the third quarter he will be able to get a few more cracks at some down field passes.
Find ways to keep disrupting the Mercer offense
Kane Wommack’s unit has been on a tear since the Tennessee game which was kept up today as Alabama’s defense has forced three turnovers with one fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Zabien Brown. It also included a fumble recovery by Damon Payne on the opening drive and an athletic interception by Qua Russaw.
The Bears head to the break with 172 total yards of offense and 7 points. Quarterback Whitt Newbauer has been a bright spot for the Mercer offense completing 13-of-15 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown.
With Wommack’s high standard for the unit, more must be down to finish off this contest. Alabama must continue to keep Mercer’s rushing attack in check and keep more pressure on Newbauer who has been a source of life for its offense.
Remain disciplined
After wracking up three penalties in the first quarter, Alabama played a clean second period with no laundry hitting the field. Remaining disciplined even in a lopsided affair will be an important indicator of the team’s growth throughout the season.
With a hostile road game against Oklahoma coming up (blame me for looking ahead), along with the ever unpredictable Iron Bowl to finish the regular season, continuing the groove of light penalty showings will be important.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber only content!*
Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
