Alabama Football: Five takeaways from victory over LSU

Takeaway No. 4

While the LSU defense was hitting the Crimson Tide in the mouth, the Alabama football defense chose to win the game. Led by maybe the best football player in the nation, Will Anderson Jr., the Tide defense was as Saban said, “really, really” good.

There were a few assignment miscues but no grievous errors. Starting two true freshmen in Kool-Aid McKinstry and Dallas Turner, and having to later sub a gimpy Josh Jobe for an injured Jaylin Armour-Davis, the Tide D stood tall. LSU produced 295 yards. Most of them were not easily gained. LSU’s third-down conversion percentage was less than 28 percent.

The Tide defense had eight tackles for a loss, including five sacks, eight quarterback hurries, six pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble.

Will Anderson led the way, but also having strong games were Jordan Battle, Henry To’o To’o, Christian Harris, Phidarian Mathis, Dallas Turner, Byron Young and DeMarcco Hellams. In his first start, Kool-Aid had one tackle in the stat book, but more importantly, LSU could not take advantage of his lack of experience.

Overall it was an outstanding performance by the Tide defensive unit – including the favorite whipping boy of Tide fans, Defensive Coordinator, Pete Golding.

Takeaway No. 5

Considering the adversity he faced, Bryce Young delivered for the Crimson Tide. He looked a little shaky on a couple of throws, but the results, 24-for-37 for 302 yards and two touchdowns were outstanding. His 58-yard touchdown completion to Jameson Williams was perfectly thrown. His 12-yard and 15-yard runs were the Tide’s longest rushes all night.

It is easy to say there was no quit in the Alabama Crimson Tide defense. There was not any quit in Bryce Young either.

What’s next is easy to answer. It is New Mexico State, followed by Arkansas and Auburn. Answers to questions about beating Georgia will have to wait.