Alabama Crimson Tide finding footing and controlling destiny

In the 34-0 win over Missouri did the Alabama Crimson Tide find its footing? The shutout showcased a Kane Wommack defense that may be worthy of being called a 'Swarm'. Success on the ground, complemented but not led by Jalen Milroe's legs indicated an offensive identity Alabama has been lacking. There is, however, a need for context. As some had long suspected, Missouri was no Playoff contender. That is true with a healthy Brady Cook and the Tigers only had a hobbled one on Saturday.

Alabama's Homecoming win was important because the Crimson Tide must win out to reach the Playoffs. The shutout was a bonus. The Alabama Crimson Tide defense will brim with confidence while preparing for LSU. Rushing success by Jam Miller and Justice Haynes also lessens a too-heavy burden that Jalen Milroe has been forced to carry.

At 6-2, does the Alabama Crimson Tide control its Playoff destiny? We can't know the answer. College football still has eight undefeated teams. If ESPN's FPI rankings are correct, none of the eight have better prospects going forward than the Crimson Tide. After Week 9, five SEC football teams are in the FPI top seven teams. Texas is at the top; Alabama is No. 3; Georgia is No. 4; Tennessee and Ole Miss are No. 6 and No. 7.

Alabama Crimson Tide Playoff Probability Moves Up

After Week 9 games, ESPN's projection of Playoff probability raised Alabama's chance from 44.3% to 53.2%. As it was at 44.3%, Alabama at 53.2% has the 12th highest probability of making the CFB Playoff field. Such murkiness clouds Alabama's 2024 destiny. A more clear picture will be provided before the LSU game. The CFB Playoff Selection Committee will release its first top 25 rankings on Nov. 5.

The latest ESPN Analytics gives Alabama an increased probability to win out in the regular season. Alabama went from 61.9% to 68.3% to beat LSU and 77.7% to 80.3% to beat Oklahoma. An Alabama win in the Iron Bowl is unchanged at 88.8%.