The Alabama football world is so ready for the new season. Crimson Tide fans look to shed claims of Alabama being overrated. That is probably impossible against East Carolina. The Pirates might be one of the top three or four opponents SEC teams face in Week 1. An Alabama two-plus-touchdown win should impress, but likely would not. A closer result will fuel more doubts about the Crimson Tide.
Recent weeks have brought higher projections for the Crimson Tide. There is considerable optimism about Keelon Russell's potential. Alabama's chances of reaching 10-2 in the regular season have been increasing in the national media.
Still, doubt lingers. Chris Hummer wrote for CBS: "Alabama is replacing four offensive line starters and failed to add a high-level transfer at running back. Could some of the Tide's young players emerge as difference makers and plug those holes around Russell? Absolutely. But until I see that element of the Tide's offense improve, I have major questions about the offense and the roster as a whole." Hummer picked the Crimson Tide as the SEC's most overrated team.
Can a road win over Kentucky quiet Alabama's critics? Kenneth Massey's computer model is bullish on the Crimson Tide, but it projects only a 10-point win for Alabama in Lexington. Florida State site Chop Chat called FSU's win over New Mexico State "uninspiring." Josh Yourish wrote that "the supply of hope has been running low in Tallahassee." He added that September losses to SMU and Alabama could mean Mike Norvell is axed before October.
When Alabama gets a statement win
Alabama's best chance for a statement win before the Georgia game will be South Carolina in Tuscaloosa. Shane Beamer is 0-2 against the Crimson Tide, but both South Carolina losses were close. An improved South Carolina offense under new OC Kendal Briles should showcase LaNorris Sellers' considerable skills. The Gamecocks should come to Tuscaloosa with a 3-0 record. Beamer should have a team capable of at least one upset. Alabama should win, but not likely impressively enough to qualify as a statement win.
Improvement by the Crimson Tide's offensive line will be tested against a strong South Carolina defensive front. Marked improvement would show that Alabama can gain a statement win against Georgia. Until then, "winning ugly" should not cause undue concern.
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