Alabama Football: Tide’s report card vs. New Mexico State
By Dakota Cox
Alabama football’s report card vs. New Mexico State
Quarterbacks: A
For the first time in a long time, Alabama football played four quarterbacks in one game. Bryce Young played the entire first half, and he threw for five touchdowns with only two incompletions. This statline is elite for the Heisman contender. The only concerns with Young were the one risky throw and the sack fumble. Young needs to be more protective of the football in the pocket, but he had an overall great day.
Paul Tyson saw a few passing attempts. Nothing from him was elite, but he had a solid performance overall as well.
Jalen Milroe made some nice plays with his legs. The pocket collapsed repeatedly, but he flashed greatness with his reps. He should have had a touchdown pass, but a holding was called on a receiver.
Kicking: P
Once again, the kickers get a passing grade. Despite some misses from Will Reichard last week, he made every attempt against New Mexico State. Alabama football dominated so much that the backup kicker saw some reps, and he played well also.
Last week, the misses were because of bad snaps and holds. That improved this week, so the entire unit saw progress on Saturday.
Punting: P
James Burnip only punted twice, which is always a good thing for the Tide. Both punts were approaching 40 yards, and one of them landed inside the 20. He eliminated returns, which is another key job for the punting unit.
Alabama football had an overall exemplary day. There is still room to grow, but this was a win in a lot of ways.