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Three Alabama Crimson Tide Factors Favoring a Win
- Much has been written about Georgia's secondary struggling against Tennessee. Take away one busted assignment and a Georgia defensive back that fell on an explosive Tennessee play, and maybe Georgia is not as weak on the back end as is presumed. However, Georgia's secondary is rated; Alabama has an advantage with its defensive backfield.
- Ironic might be the best word to describe another Alabama advantage. The Crimson Tide has right-side offensive line problems. Georgia has worse problems. The Bulldogs have counted on Earnest Greene III to be a solid right tackle. Greene has a lingering injury problem and is listed as doubtful for the game. When Greene has played, he has not played well. Georgia's other options at right tackle and right guard include freshmen Juan Gaston and Dontrell Glover, plus redshirt freshman Michael Unini and redshirt sophomore Bo Hughley. Their performance against Tennessee indicates Alabama can bring left-side pressure on Gunner Stockton with frequent success.
- Alabama has the quarterback who should have the most success in the game. Ty Simpson is better than Joey Aguilar, who passed for 371 yards against the Bulldogs. Georgia's pass rush has not been fearsome this season. With adequate protection and passing plays allowing for quick reads, Simpson is capable of carving up the Georgia secondary.
What about the coaching? The Bulldogs have an advantage in defensive coaches, including Kirby Smart. Alabama has an advantage with Ryan Grubb and Kalen DeBoer over Mike Bobo. Unlike Bobo, Grubb and DeBoer may have some wrinkles that Georgia is unprepared to defend. That said, no scheme advantage will determine the winner.