Answering our questions from Alabama’s loss to Florida State

Alabama Quarterback Ty Simpson (15) signals to the offense against Florida State University at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, FL on Saturday, Aug 30, 2025. Photo by Crimson Tide Photos / UA Athletics

Heading into Alabama’s season opener at Florida State, we came up with five key questions to determine the Crimson Tide’s success. The answers to those weren’t pretty, as the Tide came out flat in a 31-17 defeat. 

Here’s a look back at how Alabama responded to last week’s points of emphasis. 

Question: Will injuries trip up the Tide? 

Answer: To be clear, injuries weren’t the only reason Alabama lost over the weekend. They certainly didn’t help, though. 

It’s safe to say the Tide missed starting running back Jamarion Miller, who missed the game with a dislocated collarbone. Without its leading back, Alabama managed just 87 rushing yards on 29 carries. 

The running game was especially dormant on plays to the right side, as starting right guard Jaeden Roberts sat out the game while continuing to recover from a concussion he suffered in preseason camp. Alabama managed just 12 yards on six designed runs to the right side against Florida State. None of those went for first downs, and only one of them netted more than 3 yards. 

On the defensive side of the ball, Alabama’s run defense suffered without defensive tackle Tim Keenan III, who is out with an ankle injury. The team captain’s absence contributed to Florida State piling up 230 yards and four touchdowns on 49 carries. 

Alabama will have back-to-back winnable games, as it hosts Louisiana-Monroe this weekend before welcoming Wisconsin to Bryant-Denny Stadium next week. From there, the Tide will have an open week before its trip to Georgia on Sept. 27. That should be enough time for all of Alabama’s injured starters to heal up.