Former Alabama OL says why he would be ‘just fine’ with Tide losing a game in home stretch

Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Richard Young (9) runs with the ball against Florida State Seminoles defensive back Earl Little Jr. (0) during the first half at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images

Former Alabama football offensive lineman, Mike Johnson is no longer a fan of playing in the SEC Championship game with the 12-team College Football Playoff format in place.

Alabama is in a position to possibly play in the conference championship game with an undefeated record in conference play. The Tide is also in prime position to secure a bye week in the first round of the playoff with an impressive 7-1 record and one of the best resumes in the sport.

Johnson played in two SEC Championship games as a member of the Crimson Tide, and he has fond memories of those experiences. However, he recently stated why he would be fine with Alabama possibly losing to Oklahoma and not playing in the conference title game while discussing the Tide on 92.9 The Game in Atlanta.

“I know that Bama fans are going to be mad at me for saying this,” Johnson said. “I’d be just fine if Bama were to slip up against like an Oklahoma and ain’t playing in Atlanta in the first week in December. That wouldn’t hurt my feelings at all. I love the SEC Championship Game more than most, played in it twice, incredible atmosphere, incredible game, just doesn’t carry the weight anymore that it once did. And it’s more of a roadblock than it is a pathway. It just is. And so like, I’m good on that.”

Alabama will look to put its best foot forward against LSU on Saturday night in Bryant-Denny Stadium.