Alabama football is set to begin SEC play against Georgia at home.
Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CST. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
The staff at Touchdown Alabama provide their predictions and analysis of the game.
STEPHEN M. SMITH / SENIOR REPORTERKey Analysis:
So much buildup went into this matchup and rightfully so. Kirby Smart wants to prove he does not have an Alabama problem, while Kalen DeBoer wants to show he was the right hire for Alabama. Offensively, this is marquee game for Nick Sheridan to have a masterful game plan. He has to create ways for Jalen Milroe to big time success in the passing game, running backs to be dominant, and wide receivers to get open. Milroe has to excel in the short to intermediate passing game. Defensively, Kane Wommack has to choose the right moments to bring pressure and stop the run. Gap integrity will be crucial and Alabama’s secondary must keep Georgia’s wide receivers in front of them.
Prediction: Alabama: 30 Georgia: 21
JUSTIN SMITH / SCOUTING/RECRUITING ANALYSTKey Analysis:
This one has an opportunity to be the game of the year if both of these squads show up. Alabama’s young secondary is expected to be tested a lot in this one by the veteran quarterback, Carson Beck. The Tide can not afford to be caught out of place. Jalen Milroe needs to be in attack mode. Alabama can not let Georgia dictate what they do on offense. Milroe needs to be operating like the juggernaut of a weapon he is.
Prediction: Alabama: 28 Georgia: 24
Trevion Ware / Alabama Beat ReporterKey Analysis:
This game will be physical from start to finish. Alabama must limit Georgia running back, Trevor Etienne from being consistent in the run game and erase the threat of him catching the ball out of the backfield. Expect the Alabama defensive line to bring heavy pressure early and often as they look to make Georgia quarterback, Carson Beck get the ball out fast in an uncomfortable fashion and force him into bad decisions. Offensively, the Tide offense will benefit from throwing the first punch and countering the Bulldogs all night long. Alabama’s offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan must be creative in his play design with Jalen Milroe as he looks to get the full complement of Alabama pass catchers involved and still attack with his legs. Alabama must also get Jam Miller, Justice Haynes going early and protect the football. Lastly, in a game of this magnitude, where both teams are closely matched, special teams must make a defining play or stop to generate momentum and extra possessions because it’s very possible that this game is decided by a possession .
Prediction: Alabama: 31 Georgia: 28
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