Alabama will need to win the Iron Bowl in order to have a chance at reaching the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. First, they will have to fend off one of the best pass rushes that they have seen all season long.
The Tigers are led up front by edge rushers Jalen McLeod and Keldric Faulk. The duo has combined to record 86 tackles, 14 sacks, and one fumble recovery.
Alabama’s offensive tackles have struggled to neutralize elite pass rushers this season. South Carolina has arguably the best pass rush in the country. The Tide surrendered three sacks to the Gamecocks. In another pivotal moment, Alabama right tackle Elijah Pritchett got beat off the edge by a Vanderbilt edge rusher. The Commodores recovered and increased their lead from five points to 12 points after scoring on the ensuing drive.
In critical moments this season, Alabama’s offensive tackles have struggled to fend off opposing pass rushers. Faulk and McLeod could be the most well-rounded duo that the Crimson Tide will see this season. Both possess the frame and skillset to pose challenges for Alabama offensive tackles Kadyn Proctor and Elijah Pritchett.
If Auburn is able to put pressure on Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, it will make it more difficult for Alabama’s offense to navigate. Milroe needs a clean pocket to be able to operate. He does not operate well under duress. Pritchett and Proctor will need to bring their A-game against Faulk and McLeod on Saturday inside Bryant-Denny Stadium.
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
