Alabama's Ugly South Carolina Win: How Did They Do?
Alabama rolled into Columbia, South Carolina, expecting a comfortable victory over the Gamecocks. What they got, however, was a sloppy, frustrating affair that saw them squeak out a 30-24 win. While the Crimson Tide emerged victorious, there were plenty of concerns to unpack following the game.
A Slower Start Than Expected
Alabama's offense, normally a juggernaut, struggled to find its rhythm early. The Gamecocks, despite being significant underdogs, were able to hang tough defensively and force turnovers. Alabama quarterback, Jalen Milroe, had a rough start with a couple of early interceptions. It was clear the Tide weren't as crisp as they usually are, and the slow start allowed South Carolina to keep the game close.
Defense Steps Up, But Not Without Some Issues
Alabama's defense played well overall, holding South Carolina to just 24 points. However, they did allow the Gamecocks to rack up over 400 yards of total offense. This indicates that while the Tide were able to get stops when they needed them, they were far from dominant, which has become a common theme for the Alabama defense this season.
Milroe's Performance: A Mixed Bag
Milroe finished the game with 216 passing yards and 3 touchdowns, along with 106 rushing yards. While those numbers are impressive, he did struggle with accuracy and made some questionable decisions. His performance illustrated the highs and lows that come with a young, developing quarterback.
Looking Ahead: Time To Figure Things Out
The win against South Carolina, while not aesthetically pleasing, was a win nonetheless. However, it exposed some weaknesses that Alabama needs to address if they want to contend for a national championship.
The Bottom Line
While the victory was important, the lack of dominance is a cause for concern for Alabama fans. They have their work cut out for them if they want to achieve their ultimate goals.
