Tide take on Gators in Rematch of 2020 SEC Title Game
Can the Gators put pressure on Bryce Young on Saturday? Photo by John Bazemore / Associated Press
Alabama’s 2020 season has fast become one of legend. The undefeated Tide rolled through an all-SEC schedule, capturing not only an SEC title, but the national title as well. Most games, including a … dominating victory over Ohio State in the national title game, were blowouts that were decided by halftime. I say most because the Tide did get pushed to the very end one time, in the SEC title game against Florida that saw Alabama prevail, 52-46. On Saturday, the two SEC giants meet again on the gridiron known as The Swamp, with revamped rosters, undefeated records, and high expectations for what the 2021 season could be.
The 11th ranked Gators enter the tussle with the Crimson Tide with a 2-0 record, easily dispatching Florida Atlantic (35-14) and South Florida (42-20). The offense, which a year ago averaged 41 points per game and has gained over 400 yards in 12 straight games, is led by the quarterback tandem of junior Emory Jones, who is completing 63% of his passes (2 TD’s, 4 INT’s) and fleet footed freshman Anthony Richardson, who has completed 55% of his passes and has 2 passing touchdowns to his credit. Most impressive (or a concern) is the fact that the two quarterbacks lead the team in rushing, as Richardson has gained 275 and two touchdowns on the ground while Jones has racked up 155 yards and one touchdown. Junior Jacob Copeland is the team’s leading receiver, snagging 6 passes for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns, and the Gators no doubt miss the receiving trio of Kyle Pitts, Kadarius Toney, and Trevon Grimes. On the defensive front, neither FAU or South Florida have pushed the Gators too much. The unit, behind senior linebacker Jeremiah Moon and senior defensive lineman Zachary Carter have played well, yet will face their most stern test against a talented and deep Crimson Tide offense.
Alabama also enters its first true road contest at 2-0 with dominating victories over 24th ranked Miami 44-13 and Mercer 48-14. Tide sophomore quarterback Bryce Young is off to a strong start, completing 70% of his passes and 7 touchdowns against no interceptions. He has been smooth and nimble in and out of the pocket, and while his young offensive line continues to gain experience, he will continue to face pressure that will test his skills. The Tide boast four solid tailbacks, led by senior Brian Robinson Jr. (130 yards, 1 touchdown) and sophomore Trey Sanders (71, 1 TD). Ohio State transfer Jameson Williams leads the team in receiving yards (157) and touchdowns (2), while veteran junior John Metchie leads the team in receptions (11) for 146 yards and a touchdown. Watch for junior tight end Cameron Latu (3 catches for 43 yards and 2 touchdowns) to possibly have a breakout day against the Gators. Placekicker Will Reichard has hit on 5 of 6 field goals with a season long of 51 yards is a potent weapon for the Tide.
Defensively, The Tide has played well for much of the early season, and are led by linebackers Henry To’o To’o, Christian Harris (both credited with 13 tackles so far this season) and Will Anderson (12 tackles). Anderson left the Mercer game with a knee injury that caused concern earlier in the week, however all indications say that he will be good to go on Saturday. Youngsters Chris Braswell, Dallas Turner, and Drew Sanders are expected to make significant contributions this season. The secondary, which was an area of concern in ‘20, have played quite well so far, outside of too many holding/pass interference penalties. The back-end is led by Josh Jobe and Jalyn Armour- Davis, who both missed last week’s Mercer game with minor injuries.
Alabama has not lost to an SEC East team since 2010, yet this game may prove to be more competitive than most think. Young will be starting his first game on the road, and against Mercer the Tide did not play with the world killer attitude they showed against Miami in week one. The offensive line has been shaky at times. With a fairly young roster, many Bama players have not been on the field during stressful situations, and if Florida can hang in there, extend drives, and get points, they could threaten well into the second half. A key may be the health of Anthony Richardson, who tweaked a hamstring on a touchdown run last Saturday against South Florida. Another key will be if Florida’s offensive line can hold up against the Tide’s defensive front. Can Florida put pressure on Young and disrupt him enough to get him and the Bama offense out of a rhythm? Easier said than done.
Florida has two mobile quarterbacks, and that fact, combined with Dan Mullen’s ability to create proficient offensive production, has Gator fans excited about this matchup. It has been noted several times that mobile quarterbacks have traditionally given Alabama defenses problems, however such quarterbacks tend to give most teams problems. The athleticism of the Tide defense has recently held mobile quarterbacks in check (most recently Justin Fields in last year’s national title game and the opener against Miami’s D’Eriq King). Add on the fact that Alabama will be motivated after numerous ass chewings from Coach Saban following a less than acceptable performance against Mercer, and the Tide should emerge from the Swamp 1-0 in conference play after a hard fought, but convincing win.
Alabama 38
Florida 20