The Alabama defense was magnificent as the Crimson Tide held a Mississippi State squad quite capable of scoring points to exactly zero on Saturday. The offense did all that was needed in the win. Now both units get what essentially amounts to a week off as ‘Bama faces The Citadel.
Here are the three keys:
Be smart with Tua Tagovailoa
Nick Saban has said that Tagovailoa will play against The Citadel. While it is hard to question a coach of Saban’s stature within the game, this move seems like it is a little shortsighted.
The Crimson Tide opened as a 50 point favorite over its FCS opponent. Taking Tagovailoa out of the lineup may shift that line a touch, but Alabama would still be a five or six touchdown favorite at kickoff. The right knee injury that force the Alabama quarterback from the Mississippi State game can only be healed with rest, while one hit on the joint could end the sophomore’s season.
Tagovailoa should see the field for no more than a series or two in this game. Anything else would be irresponsible as Alabama has far loftier goals than just winning against The Citadel.
Don’t get sloppy
This is a game where focus will be important. It is not unfair to suggest that Alabama could play this one at half speed and still have enough to beat a team that is currently 4-5 in the SoCon. With Auburn up next, however, that would be a mistake.
Alabama needs to treat this late season FCS clash like it is another SEC game. If the Crimson Tide executes as it can on both offense and defense then this one will be over by the half and Saban will be able to rotate in his backups and fringe players to get them some minutes, resting starters in the process.
This strategy only works though if Alabama plays hard and crisp through the first 30 minutes. This should be a game where the Crimson Tide is free of penalties and turnovers, showing the focus that Saban demands of his squad.
Defend the triple-option
One of the unique aspects of this game is that Alabama will be facing a triple-option/wishbone style offense for the first time this season.
The Citadel is not an FCS team that is going to wing the ball around and make Alabama defend the deep ball. Instead, it is a run heavy squad that will look to use deception and unique blocking schemes to open lanes for its ball carriers.
Alabama has the size and speed advantage on defense, but the triple-option does render some of those differences moot. Expect The Citadel to move the ball a little on their first couple of drives before the Alabama defense takes over and shuts down their clock controlling attack.
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