What Alabama needs to do to close out East Carolina

Alabama football leads East Carolina 38-7 at halftime.

Here is what the Crimson Tide needs to do to close out the Pirates:

Continue To Run The Football

Alabama football’s rushing attack is showing a lot of life in this one. This was an area of concern for the Crimson Tide ahead of the 2026 season. Alabama is having success on the ground in this one, showing their emphasis on improving the running game is paying off. Daniel Hill and EJ Crowell scored the first three touchdowns of the season in this one on the ground. It also appears that Russell will have some growing pains as a freshman quarterback. A reliable rushing attack is something he can benefit from.

Wide Receivers Need To Create Separation

Keelon Russell is getting a lot of time and great protection from the Tide’s offensive line. He has more than enough time to throw the football, but it appears he does not have many open wideouts to get the ball to consistently. This improved as the half went on.

Defense Has To Limit Explosives

The Alabama defense came out in this one looking solid as a unit. That changed when Mitch Griffis attempted to push the ball down the field, and East Carolina turned an explosive play into a score a play later. Explosive plays are backbreakers for even the best defenses. This explosive appeared to be a result of a miscommunication on the back end. This is definitely something the Tide will look to clean up in the future, as a few explosive players were produced by Griffis in this one.

Continue To Be Tough Against The Run

Alabama football has given up big plays on the back end of its defense, but its defensive front has been really good against the run so far. This needs to continue in the second half for the Crimson Tide. The lack of a rushing attack has helped Alabama keep the East Carolina offense out of rhythm.