What Alabama has to do in order to hold off Georgia

Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

As Alabama and Georgia head to halftime, the Crimson Tide was able to get out to a 24-14 lead on the Bulldogs in Athens.

But with the second half looming and Kirby Smart eyeing a comeback to get his first win over Kalen DeBoer, Alabama must sharpen up in a few key areas to remain ahead in the second half.

Alabama’s keys to victory:

Establish a more consistent run game

Outside of a couple explosive runs from quarterback Ty Simpson and receiver Germie Bernard, the production between the tackles for the Alabama backfield has been difficult to come by. Averaging just 2.7 yards per carry, the Crimson Tide must be able to find some sort of success from the traditional running game especially if it wants to eat clock in the fourth quarter. The pass protection from the offensive line has been stellar so far, but getting to the second level of the Bulldog defense will be imperative.

Avoid giving up the big play

After Alabama went up 14-0, the following drive Kane Wommack’s defense relinquished a 29-yard carry to Chauncey Bowens setting up a 38-yard touchdown to Colbie Young. Later in the second quarter Bowens would scrape the Crimson Tide defense again with a 43-yard carry deep into Alabama territory. Those types of plays have to be eliminated in the second half, especially if Stockton keeps struggling through the air.

Remain creative/aggressive on offense

So far Ryan Grubb has earned his paycheck with the play sheet and overall plan of attack. But that can’t slow down in the second half. Simpson appears comfortable and protected in the pocket and with the consistent misdirection and motion, Georgia was on its heels consistently. That same type of pressure must be kept on Smart’s defense to keep extending drives and expanding its lead. This will also involve getting Ryan Williams back involved in the passing game.

Stay clean on the penalties

Outside of a crucial hold on 4th down by Zabien Brown, the penalty bug has not bit Alabama too badly. The Crimson Tide will need to keep up its discipline on both sides of the ball to stay ahead of the sticks offensively and not give Georgia any free first downs.

No turnovers

It’s simple, when you have a lead you can’t give the opponent more cracks at the endzone. Georgia figured out the hard way in the second quarter after a big hit from Alabama safety Bray Hubbard forced a fumble deep in Bulldog territory ultimately leading to a Connor Talty field goal. In a game that could prove to be as consequential as this taking care of the football will prove paramount.

*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