The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Missouri Tigers on Saturday in Columbia, Missouri with a final score of 38-19 to start the SEC conference-only season.
This game was full of unknowns due to the coronavirus outbreak, but the Alabama Crimson Tide showed up and showed out.
Led by senior quarterback Mac Jones, the Tide had a combined 414 offensive yards. Jones himself went 18 of 24 for 249 yards, and 2 TDs. True freshman Bryce Young also saw action in the game and went 5 for 8 for 54 yards.
As for the running game, Alabama was able to move the ball well, and more often than we’ve seen in previous seasons. Najee Harris, who decided to return for his senior season, had a stellar performance as well. He finished the game with 17 carries for 98 yards, and 3 touchdowns.
Also offensively, Jaylen Waddle emerged as one of the best players of the night. Waddle finished the night with 8 receptions for 134 yards and 2 touchdowns. DeVonta Smith also put on a show with 8 receptions for 89 yards. John Metchie III also had 2 receptions for 42 yards. This trio is going to be amazing to watch this season.
Defensively, Alabama showed a much stronger and faster defense than last season, which has a lot to do with being healthy and being led by Christian Harris, and Dylan Moses. The Tide held the Tigers to 322 total offensive yards. Missouri quarterback Shawn Robinson finished the game going 19 of 25 for 185 yards and 1 TD.
All in all, Alabama played their hearts out and showed they’ve hungry to make it back to the college football playoff. Mac Jones showed his ability to be consistent and how much of a leader he is. And Alabama’s defense looks to be a threat to all of the SEC.
Simply put, this was an incredible way for the Crimson Tide to start the season.
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