Ty Simpson and Ryan Grubb have differing takes on Alabama’s run game struggles

Alabama RB Jam Miller (No. 26) running through the tackle of a Mocs defender at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Photo comes via Brian Pride - Touchdown Alabama Magazine

It is no secret that Alabama football’s offense is in a rough patch in terms of running the ball, and the fans and media are looking for answers.

When quarterback Ty Simpson was asked about the lack of a run game, he said the problem lies between the ears, saying he feels like the mental aspect of running the ball is not up to par because the offense is not confident enough. However, his take does not align with what offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said on Monday.

“I don’t think it’s a mental thing,” Grubb said. “I think there is some physical things that the guys know we got to do a little bit better, and I know they’re going to battle to make those things right. I don’t think it’s a mental issue. I don’t think there was a bunch of missed assignments. There was some guys getting beat at the point of attack at times. We got to improve that, and they will.”

On Tuesday, Simpson was asked what Alabama needs to do to have more success in the run game, and he referenced his post-game response and believes it is a mental thing.

“Like I said last game, it’s a mental thing,” Simpson said. “Just understand that we can do it and we have done it before. And then, just having confidence in being able to understand like we got the scheme, we got the players and just believing in ourselves and doing it. “It’s some technique issues, but we’re gonna be running the ball. We’ll be just fine. I believe in our coaches, believe in our o-line, believe in our running backs. We’re going to have no problem running the ball.”

The reality is Grubb is not in the huddle with Alabama’s offense and Simpson is. If the offensive line or running backs are not mentally sharp going into crucial games and are lacking in confidence, then the doubters should be replaced.

Regardless of if the struggles are related to a bad physical or mental approach, the Crimson Tide are running out of time to get this corrected before the playoffs arrive.