Initial takeaways from Alabama beating Eastern Illinois

Nov 22, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama defensive back Dijon Lee Jr. (5) intercepts a pass that bounced off of Eastern Illinois wide receiver DeAirious Smith (6) at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Alabama football defeated Eastern Illinois 56-0 to improve to 9-2 on the season.

Here are our initial takeaways from the Alabama win:

Alabama kicking woes continue

Alabama football’s kicking game was an early lowlight for the Tide after Conor Talty missed a 28-yard field goal. Fortunately for Alabama, Talty did make all of his extra-point attempts.

Alabama Rushing Attacks Gets Some Life

Alabama football put an emphasis on running the football early and often in this one. It is hard to measure if the Tide’s rushing attack took a step forward in this one, but they have gained a rhythm in a sense with Jam Miller carrying the football for 24 yards on one carry and 12 yards on another. Alabama finished the game with 269 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.

Alabama’s Defense Puts Up Another Stifling Performance

Alabama’s defense continued its streak of great performances by keeping the Panthers out of the scoring column. It was a solid overall performance from the unit. Alabama gave up only 34 yards.

Austin Mack Displays Different Skill

Mack has not been thought of as a dual-threat quarterback, but he can run and make plays with his feet when he needs to. He broke free for a 20-yard rushing touchdown against the Panthers. He looked solid throwing the ball is well.

Keelon Russell Flashes Future Potential

Keelon Russell flashed his potential to be the next great Alabama quarterback when he got some snaps in the second half of the game. The freshman looked poised and in control of the offense when he was on the field.