Hold on. Don't shoot the messenger. The title of this post is factually correct. Against Texas A&M, Alabama did give up on its run game. And, Alabama won, coming from behind, so the ploy worked.
After the game, Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said he was "disappointed" and "we needed more out of that run game to open up some things for us." DeBoer added that the Crimson Tide cannot have "guys unblocked at the point of attack, or falling off blocks."
DeBoer didn't make excuses, even though Alabama played much of the game with its No. 2 center and No. 3 left guard. William Sanders played less than a quarter and a half before an injury forced his exit. After the game, DeBoer said Sanders would be out more than a week or two, indicating he will not play against LSU.
Alabama Run Game against the Aggies
Alabama rushed for 78 sack-adjusted rushing yards against A&M. Alabama's running backs had 17 carries for 51 yards. Remove Daniel Hill's late-game 13-yard run and one 10-yard run by Traeshawn Brown, and the Tide's backs averaged 1.9 yards per carry. That won't cut it against LSU. A repeat performance against LSU would give the Bengal Tigers a huge advantage.
Going into Week 8, the Aggies were last among SEC teams in average yards rushing allowed. In four SEC games, the Aggies had allowed a 5-yard carry average. The Crimson Tide offense was unable to take advantage.
For the same stat, LSU at No. 6 among SEC teams is not as good as Georgia (No. 2) and Tennessee (No. 3). The difference among the three SEC defenses is less than half a yard.
Is 'run the damn ball'- meaning call more running plays - a solution for an offensive line that often struggles to get a push? Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb must quickly find an answer, or the Saturday night in Baton Rouge will severely damage Alabama's playoff chances.
Going into Week 8, Brian Fremeau's FEI 'Defensive Efficiency' opponent-adjusted ratings ranked LSU No. 1 among all FBS teams.
Note: Stats provided by Stat Broadcast and cfbstats.com
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