Alabama Football: Studs and Duds in Bama Win over Razorbacks
By Ronald Moody
No. 2 Alabama football (10-1) defeated No.21 Arkansas (7-4) 42-35 in a close one to take the SEC West crown. Winning is a chore every season in the hardscrabble SEC West. It was a hard-fought win as is usually the case for the opponents of Sam Pittman’s Razorbacks.
There is a lot to unpack from a game that the Alabama Crimson Tide could have won handily, but didn’t despite a Crimson Tide record-setting performance by the Tide’s sensational sophomore quarterback, Bryce Young.
The College Football Playoff Committee may not find the win impressive enough as the No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes won comfortably over the No. 7 Michigan State Spartans. The Selection Committee may look to drop the Crimson Tide.
Next up, the dreaded Iron Bowl. I understand the Iron Bowl does not matter to some fans, but it really matters in ways that go beyond beating an old rival struggling through a 6-5 season.
First, Alabama has an extremely difficult time winning in Jordan Hare. The last time the Tide prevailed in their hostile environment came in 2015.
Lastly, the Crimson Tide needs to fix its glaring issues on the offensive line, secondary and special teams before facing No.1 Georgia in the SEC Championship game. Enjoy Saturday’s well-earned victory over Arkansas for 24 hours and let’s get ready to face the hated rival Auburn Tigers.
Next are studs and duds for this week.