No. 10 Alabama will host Eastern Illinois in hopes of bouncing back after a disappointing loss to Oklahoma.
Saturday’s game will be the final regular-season game at Bryant-Denny Stadium for senior day. The Crimson Tide will look to fix the mistakes from last week in what will serve as a warm-up game before the Iron Bowl.
Here are a few things to watch for on Saturday.
- Build Momentum in Run Game
Last week, Alabama showed some life in the running game and actually outrushed an SEC opponent. Against one of the better rushing defenses in the country, Alabama ran for 80 yards, led by Daniel Hill’s 60-yard effort. Hill has started to see more time in the backfield and has a chance to build some momentum in the run game before a tough regular-season finale against Auburn.
- Bounce Back
Alabama played one of its worst games of the season last week in its loss to Oklahoma. The Crimson Tide’s goals of making the playoffs are still intact, but there is no room for error. Alabama will look to use Saturday’s game against a far inferior opponent to bounce back and get things moving in the right direction before a big matchup against Auburn in the Iron Bowl.
- Take Care of Business
Saturday’s game should be an easy one for the Crimson Tide. Ideally, Kalen DeBoer would like to see his team get off to a fast start with a sizable lead before halftime. This would allow the starters to get some rest and hopefully get a win and stay healthy. Alabama would also be able to develop some depth at key positions if the score allows backups to get in for quality minutes.
- Shore Up the Special Teams
Special teams mistakes played a significant role in Alabama’s loss to Oklahoma. Alabama allowed a 42-yard punt return that set up the first score of the game, fumbled a punt return that led to a field goal, and missed a 36-yard field goal right before half. Look for Alabama to add extra focus to being more sound in their special teams play.
- A Look Into the Future
When the second half begins on Saturday, Alabama should have a comfortable lead, and the second and third stringers should start to enter the game. Crimson Tide fans will get a glimpse of future starters for their team. The quarterback position most certainly will gather the most eyes in anticipation of how true freshman Keelon Russell will perform.
Alabama will host Eastern Illinois on Saturday at 1 p.m. The game will be streamed on SEC Network+.
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