Alabama Football: Bama Hammer staff SEC Championship game predictions
By Ronald Evans
Bama Hammer Lead Writer, Ronald Evans
I give the Bulldogs only one big advantage. Special teams are decidedly in favor of Georgia. If Kirby can keep the margin less than a touchdown, better special teams play could give Georgia a victory.
The other way Georgia can win is by establishing a running game. Swift and Holyfield can run with power and are particularly dangerous popping outside. The Dawgs need the run game to balance its offense and not allow the Crimson Tide to repeatedly tee off on Jake Fromm. If the Tide can shut down the Georgia running game, it will not only win but will cover the spread.
The flip side of when the Tide has the ball is a real problem for Georgia. Kirby Smart and Mel Tucker have been content to play ‘bend-don’t-break’ defense most of the season. Against the Tide, Georgia will struggle to get pressure on Tua unless Kirby brings more numbers. Give Tua time and he can and will pick the Bulldogs apart. Commit extra numbers to pressure and the Tide will have multiple receivers open for Tua. Either option chosen by Kirby gives Tua and the Tide an advantage.
If the Crimson Tide is effective running and passing, there is no way the Bulldogs win a shootout. The Tide is also deeper on defense and overall healthier. Georgia has injury issues on both lines and at linebacker.
Separation may not come easily and certainly, will not come early – BUT – Alabama football is better than last season and Georgia is not quite as good.