Alabama Football: Final thoughts before National Championship
By Dakota Cox
What can Alabama football prove vs. Georgia?
After a wild season with plenty of storylines and history, Alabama football is looking to end the year with a similar result. The Tide are playing in their sixth championship game over the past seven years, and they have a chance to repeat as champions for the first time since A.J. McCarron was under center.
History is on Alabama football‘s side. They’ve won a title in every year where they’ve won the Heisman Trophy, and Bryce Young took home that honor this year. They also beat Georgia in the SEC Championship, so they’ve proven that they can beat the Bulldogs.
We’ve talked about the importance of Alabama’s offensive line. We’ve covered the loss of John Metchie and how that hurts Alabama football. Every facet of this game has been analyzed for over a week. So, let’s wrap up coverage with some final thoughts before this game.
The fact that Alabama made it to this game is a testament to the Tide’s seniors and coaching staff. They overcame more adversity this year than any other, and they are one win away from back-to-back national championships. Despite losing almost every contributor from last year’s offense, the Tide have reloaded once again. This is one of the youngest teams in the Saban era, and they are still contributing.
Alabama will look to run the ball more consistently with a healthy Brian Robinson. If he can wear down the Georgia defensive front, the passing game will open up in the second half. Georgia’s secondary is weaker than Cincinnati’s, so the Tide should have more success through the air.
Alabama needs another elite defensive performance. Wearing down Georgia’s defense is only half the battle. Stetson Bennett may be a former walk-on, but he’s shown flashes against quality defenses. Alabama needs to get him uncomfortable early and often. Expect Will Anderson to play a huge part in that.
This season is one game away from being over. Alabama football needs an elite performance to end with a win. They’re capable of it, but this will be the toughest challenge of the 2021 season.