Alabama Football: Tide’s report card in Iron Bowl vs. Auburn

Alabama football’s report card vs. Auburn

Cornerbacks: B

Against Arkansas, the secondary kept the game close. In fact, Alabama football made a sub to put Kool-Aid McKinstry in the game. He struggled as well, but the unit as a whole is to blame. Every score came from a big play given up by the secondary.

The corners got lost in coverage repeatedly. These led to big plays by Arkansas, and it was a crucial focal point while the Tide prepared for the Iron Bowl.

For the most part, Alabama had to stop the run against Auburn. However, a few big plays happened through the air against Alabama’s corners. Most of this is thanks to Auburn’s players making plays, but the secondary made mistakes as well.

Outside of the mistakes, a few key plays were made. McKinstry got a sack that pushed Auburn out of field-goal range in the second half. Alabama made some solid tackles in the open space to avoid big gains.

Jobe made an interception in the fourth quarter that helped keep the game close.

Credit Brian Branch with making plays in the open field. He is a corner/safety hybrid at the STAR position.

Safeties: B-

The safeties got lost in coverage against Arkansas as well, but they also missed some key tackles. DeMarcco Hellams and Jordan Battle needed to step up against Auburn for the Tide to dominate this Iron Bowl.

The safeties helped top the run on the outside, but Auburn had some success throwing the ball and attacking the back end. Hellams had the busted play that allowed Auburn’s first touchdown, but he played well besides that.