Despite 14 penalties and two turnovers, Alabama was able to get out of College Station with a massive win over Texas A&M this afternoon. The two sides entered Saturday’s gathering as the only two remaining undefeated in conference play in the West division. Alabama’s 26-20 road victory secured the Tide the top spot in the division with the path to Atlanta running through Tuscaloosa once again.
It felt like Alabama couldn’t stop shooting themselves in the foot, but even then it felt like they were in control for most of the fourth quarter. The Crimson Tide racked up 14 penalties which went for 99 yards which is a continuing problem from 2022. College Station and Kyle Field were absolutely rocking, so regardless of the score, this was a massive outcome for an Alabama side fighting to keep their national championship hopes alive.
The Alabama defense was very good again as they gave up 306 total yards and 20 points, numbers that should win you most games. True freshman Caleb Downs came up massive again forcing the Aggies only turnover of the evening.
The story of tonight was Jalen Milroe as he torched the Texas A&M secondary for 321 yards and three scores. Jermaine burton was a huge part of that as he accounted for nine receptions, 197 yards and two touchdowns. Milroe’s ability to make explosive plays with his arm was the difference maker in this game because again, the Tide struggled to run the ball. Alabama as a team rushed for only 23 yards which was supposed to be the bread and butter of this team.
I think Alabama is quickly evolving into a team that could compete for a national championship and getting better each weeks. They still have a lot of mental errors like the penalties to clean up, but to go into a hostile environment like A&M has and to get that kind of win says a lot about this team. The Crimson Tide will host Arkansas next weekend in what should be a bit easier of a task.
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