Can Alabama football learn much against New Mexico State?
In most seasons, Alabama football‘s pivotal moments come against top-tier opponents. In those games, we learn if the Tide can compete for a title. However, every game is a learning opportunity. What can Alabama learn against New Mexico State this Saturday?
There are still a few games on Alabama’s schedule, but this is the last “cupcake” week before finishing the season strong. For the Tide, it is now or never.
Offensive line depth
Excluding injuries, Alabama has yet to make major changes to the starting offensive line. There clearly is a reason for this, but it is not because the starters are performing well. In fact, Alabama football’s offensive line has played worse this year than any year in recent memory.
So, why hasn’t Alabama given younger guys chances to start? Hopefully, we will see them play in the second half against New Mexico State. If they play well, Alabama may have more options for the end of the season.
Will Bryce Young run?
In recent weeks, Bryce Young has stepped up as a runner. He can win with his arm, but his legs add another dimension to the Tide offense. With the struggles on the offensive line, it is crucial to add depth to the playbook.
However, will he run in a game where the Tide are heavily favored? This will show the mentality of the offense. If he runs, then it is safe to assume that Alabama has invested in his running abilities. If not, then the Tide are simply relying on his legs when necessary.
Will Anderson for Heisman?
Will Anderson has an outside shot of winning the Heisman Trophy. If he wants to win it, he needs to boost his stats (which are already insane). People rarely vote for defensive players, so the narrative will be hard to shift.
If Anderson can pull another multi-sack game, he should at least be in the running heading into the season. It would take a Heisman moment against Georgia, but he can stay on the path with a monster performance.