Initial takeaways from Alabama beating South Carolina

Oct 25, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) scrambles for a first down on fourth down against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

Alabama football defeated South Carolina 29-22 on the road to improve to 7-1.

Here are some initial takeaways from the game:

Alabama football’s rushing attack is in a funk

Alabama has to find a way to get its run game going on a consistent basis. Recent struggles have helped stifle the Crimson Tide’s offensive rhythm. This improved as the game went on.

Kalen DeBoer Continues To Struggle To Get His Team Ready For Trap Games

Alabama football once again falls into the trap of sleepwalking into a road game against an opponent it is expected to beat. This has been a constant trend under DeBoer. He has his team up for the marquee games but fails to do so in game  considered to be of less significance from a national spotlight standpoint.

Ryan Grubb Still Has Some Tricks Up His Sleeves

Ryan Grubb was in his bag late in this one in terms of play calling. He has some plays he can pull off in the clutch.

The Alabama Defense Is Playing With An Opportunist Attitude

The Alabama defense forced two key turnovers in this one. This emphasis on creating turnovers benefitted the Tide in this one.

Alabama Football’s Defense Has To Prioritized Sound Tackles

Alabama football was left grasping for air a lot against LaNorris Sellers in the open field. The Tide still has to face multiple mobile quarterbacks in the future and will need to take a step forward in this area.