Alabama football is set to take on the Miami Hurricanes Saturday in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Kickoff is set for 2:30 CST. The game will be broadcasted live on ABC.
The staff at Touchdown Alabama provide their predictions and analysis of the game.
STEPHEN M. SMITH / SENIOR REPORTER
Alabama 38 – Miami 17
Key Insight: “Alabama’s offense has to settle Bryce Young into the game with short passes before taking deep shots. If Alabama’s offensive line can protect him and run the ball successfully, it will take Miami out of its aggressive element. Defensively, the Tide has to pressure D’Eriq King but also contain him. Alabama must get off the field on third down.”
JUSTIN SMITH / SCOUTING/RECRUITING ANALYST
Alabama 31 – Miami 17
Key Insight: “All eyes will be on Alabama’s starting sophomore quarterback Bryce Young during his first start. The California native has the potential to keep Alabama’s offense operating at an efficient level. but with the hiring of Bill O’Brien as the Tide’s offensive coordinator, the offense may need time to get established against an experienced Miami defense. Fortunately, for the Crimson Tide, they also have an experienced defense at all levels. Look for Alabama to lean on their defense in the early going as the offense works out a few things.
PATRICK DOWD / ALABAMA BEAT REPORTER
Alabama 35 – Miami 24
“Like most of Alabama’s Week 1 matchups, it’s still trying to figure out its roster before conference play begins. Miami brings an experienced group on both sides of the football led by dynamic quarterback D’Eriq King. New Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young may need a few plays to get his feet wet as the team’s new starter, but the experience Alabama boasts on the defensive side of the ball should be more than capable of giving the offense multiple opportunities to succeed. Alabama will get the win but it’ll be more challenging than expected.”
