Alabama Football: Report Card vs Utah State

Alabama Football Running Backs: B

The Alabama football running game was a little underwhelming on Saturday. Bryce Young led the team in rushing yards on just a handful of scrambles. Jahmyr Gibbs ran for 93 yards on nine carries, with a big chunk of that yardage coming on one explosive run.

The other backs that got carries were Jase McClellan, Roydell Williams, Trey Sanders and Jamarion Miller. Each looked very solid, but no individual in this deep stable of backs got enough touches to really establish a rhythm.

Miller, a true freshman, ran extremely hard throughout the fourth quarter and could be a very good back for Alabama football as early as next season. McClellan was more impressive as a pass catcher than as a ball carrier, hauling in a pair of touchdown receptions.

Alabama Football Receivers: A

Junior wide receivers Traeshon Holden and Jermaine Burton, along with freshman slot Kobe Prentice looked like they might be the next “Big Three” for Alabama football. The trio caught five passes each, with Holden and Burton both hauling in two touchdown passes from Bryce Young. Alabama went to Prentice early and often in the first quarter and used him in a variety of ways. The youngster is only scratching the surface of his potential.

Alabama football also got a few other freshmen receivers involved, as speedy newcomers Kendrick Law and Isaiah Bond both made multiple receptions. It looks like this offense may already have more depth at receiver than it did last year, and this depth will only increase when Cam Latu and Jojo Earle return to the lineup. Ja’Corey Brooks was surprisingly quiet, but should also be expected to eventually become a difference maker.

Alabama Football Offensive Line: C

The Alabama football offensive line was serviceable, but continued to have some issues. The line did not create much push in the running game, and the pass protection was shaky early in the contest. However, this line has several new starters and I think the group is still trying to mesh. In a surprising lineup adjustment, junior Javion Cohen started at left guard but senior Emil Ekiyor did not start at right guard. Hopefully, by midseason, the rotation will be ironed out and this group can develop some chemistry and continuity.