The Alabama Crimson Tide was defeated by the Auburn Tigers with a final score of 48-45 to finish the regular season with a record of 10-2.
Final. pic.twitter.com/S6WXUOXpl6
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) December 1, 2019
There was A LOT riding on this game for the Crimson Tide, as it was their last chance to prove to the College Football Playoff Committee that they’re worthy to be in the playoffs. Although they no longer have a chance at the playoffs, they’ll still be playing in a bowl game with one more chance to see several Alabama juniors and seniors play in an Alabama uniform before they enter into the NFL Draft.
Although this was a heartbreaking loss for Alabama, Mac Jones showed confidence and composure throughout the entire game, even after throwing two interceptions. Jones finished the game going 26 of 39 for 335 yards passing, 4 TDs, and 2 Interceptions.
Also offensively, Jaylen Waddle emerged as one of the best players of the night. Waddle finished the night with a 98 yard kickoff return for a TD, 98 receiving yards, and 4 TDs. Considering Waddle is only a sophomore, this should give Alabama fans a lot of hope and excitement for this young man’s future. Henry Ruggs III also scored a TD, and had 6 receptions for 99 yards.
As for the running game, Alabama was able to move the ball well, as Najee Harris finished the game with 146 yards rushing off of 27 carries, and a touchdown.
Defensively, Alabama struggled to contain the Tigers. Bo Nix finished the game going 15/30 for 173 yards passing, 1 passing TD, and 1 rushing TD. The Tigers were also able to move the ball on the ground as they finished with 181 yards rushing as a unit. JaTarvious Whitlow finished the game with 16 carried for 114 yards. Alabama’s Raekwon Davis and Xavier McKinney both had 8 solo tackles. Alabama’s defense recorded 48 total tackles, 0 sacks, 4 TFL, and 2 QB hurries.
Costly penalties from the Crimson Tide ( 13 penalties for 96 yards) really hurt the Crimson Tide in many ways. Whether it was a false start, or roughing the passer, all of the penalties continued to give Auburn the momentum, which they capitalized on many times.
All in all, Alabama played their hearts out this season after losing Tua Tagovailoa to a season ending injury, and Mac Jones played better than many thought he would. Alabama will be playing in a bowl game, and will need to focus on the offensive line doing a better job protecting Jones, and the defense has to work on covering the middle of the field, and not getting beat deep.
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