College football’s game of the year started out as a dud but eventually lived up to all the hype as No. 4 Alabama beat No. 2 Georgia 41-34 after blowing a 23-point halftime lead.
Kalen DeBoer survived his first-ever SEC game as Alabama moved to 1-0 in the SEC.
Here are a few takeaways from the game.
Set the Tone Early
Alabama’s offense took the opening kickoff and marched down the field with an eight-play, 70-yard drive ending in a touchdown to set the tone of the game. The Crimson Tide carried the momentum from the opening drive and finished the first quarter up 21-0, leaving the Bulldogs in shock. In the first quarter, Alabama racked up 198 yards while holding Georgia to just 27.
Offensive Game Plan Was Superb
Starting with the opening drive, offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan called a near-flawless game. Sheridan dialed up designed runs with Milroe and quick passes to march down the field effortlessly. The Crimson Tide used motion to identify the defense and put their playmakers in spots to make big plays. Alabama finished with 41 points and 547 total yards on what some believe to be one of the top defenses in the nation.
A First Time for Everything
Coming into the game, Georgia had not given up a touchdown this season. Alabama wasted no time ending that streak less than five minutes into the game. Georgia also had yet to turn the ball over this season. Late into the first quarter, Domani Jackson intercepted Carson Beck for the first turnover given up by Georgia all season. Just before halftime, Jihaad Campbell intercepted Beck, making it the first time in his career he has thrown multiple interceptions in a single game.
Big Night for Milroe
Jalen Milroe came into Saturday night third in the Heisman odds and left the field as the new favorite. Milroe rushed the ball 16 times, leading the Crimson Tide with 117 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. In the pocket, Milroe looked comfortable and confident, connecting on all the throws and making all the right decisions. Milroe finished the game throwing for 374 yards and two touchdowns. His only blemish was an interception that came on a tipped pass off his tight end.
No Stage Is Too Big For Ryan Williams
Ryan Williams may be the same age as high school seniors, but no situation seems to be too big for him to handle. Williams has been Milroe’s favorite target this season, and he consistently comes through when the Crimson Tide needs him the most. Whether it’s keeping concentration to catch a juggling ball or getting open for a 75-yard touchdown catch to put his team up with two minutes to go in the game, Williams constantly shows up in big moments. Williams finished the game with six catches for 177 yards and the game-winning touchdown.
Alabama will travel to Vanderbilt next Saturday. The kickoff time is 3:15 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised on the SEC Network.
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