Alabama vs. North Texas: Post Game Analysis

Bama looked fantastic in nearly all facets of the game in this contest.  After a first play "fumble," the offense scored on its next six straight possessions including a 95 yard drive after the turnover.  The defense gave up just 7 first downs all game and really only two bad plays.  One, a third and long where the North Texas QB rolled out right and completed a great pass into triple coverage.  Special teams did alright as well.  The only long kick return given up was called back on a holding penalty, but there were two missed PATs.  Arenas as always looked great in the return game.

Greg McElroy looked nothing short of fantastic.  13/15 176 yards 2 TDs and most importantly, Zero INTs.  He also added a rushing TD and a long third down run for a first down.  With G-Mac at the helm, I don't see a way BAMA can lose all regular season.

The running game was fantastic as always.  Mark Ingram led the way with 8 carries for 91 yards with a touchdown.  Freshman Trent Richardson carried 11 times for 87 yard and a touchdown.  But the most carries goes to regular third teamer and former starter Terry Grant with 19 carries for 79 yards and 2 scores.  The offensive line is starting to gel as a unit.  BAMA running the stretch play to either side is like watching poetry in motion.

The difference between this season and last season is depth.  Last season, when a player went down with injury, we didn't have anyone to fill in.  This season, a parade prep-high school all american goes down with injury, and we've got a pair waiting in the wings to follow.  Next season, it is likely we will have 3, THREE Elite 11 quarterbacks on the roster ---- and all of them will be sitting on the bench.  Star Jackson, AJ McCarron, and Phillip Sims will all be behind Greg McElroy.  What a great problem to have.  And at running back, Grant and Goode are both 4 star players, and never mind third string five star runner Trent Richardson.


Grades:
Offense:  A
Defense: A- (would have been A+ if it wasn't for the lone touchdown)
Special Teams:  B+

Next up for Alabama is Arkansas with Michigan transfer Ryan Mallet leading the Razorback offense.  Get a good look at the Razorbacks tonight against Georgia on ESPN at 6:45 CST.