It was a perfect day for football and Alabama was not taking any chances at squandering its home opener in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
After a competitive first quarter, the Crimson Tide, led by quarterback Mac Jones, unleashed an offensive onslaught on Texas A&M crushing all hopes of a competitive game.
Jones came firing right out of the gates as he connected with sophomore wide receiver John Metchie on the first drive of the game for a 78-yard touchdown. The two’s connection did not end there as Jones found number eight, a total of five times throughout the game for 181 yards and three touchdowns.
Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith were also staples of the offensive success once again, as they created consistent separation throughout the day. Waddle finished the game with five receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown along with Smith bringing in six catches for 63 yards and one touchdown.
But even if his guys weren’t open Jones found a way to squeeze the ball into coverage. For the entire game, Jones was in complete control never appearing rattled or disturbed in the pocket.
Jones finished the game going 20/27 for 435 yards and four passing touchdowns.
On the defensive side of the ball, there was once again an extended period of dominance throughout the game.
Alabama’s secondary of Patrick Surtain, Malachi Moore, Josh Jobe, Daniel Wright and Jordan Battle were glued to the Aggie receivers forcing Kellen Mond to try and fit the ball into some tight spots which resulted in a pick-six for Wright.
The front seven of the Crimson Tide was also exceptional as it was able to halt a Texas A&M run game which dominated its week one matchup. Linebackers Christian Harris, Dylan Moses, Will Anderson and Chris Allen were all extremely disruptive at the point of attack.
The defensive line group of Phidarian Mathis, Justin Eboigbe and Byron Young also did their part in creating pressure through well-executed stunts and made sure Mond wouldn’t get away too often.
There were still a few breakdowns in coverage that need to be addressed but as of right now the Crimson Tide’s defense looks fast and trending in the right direction.
By the time Jimbo Fisher relieved Mond from more of a beating, the game was in hand with Alabama taking home the victory 52-24.
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Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
