When the 2019 season started, there were a lot of expectations and high hopes for Tua Tagovailoa to win the Heisman Trophy, as well as the Crimson Tide to win another National Title. After all, with all of the talent that returned as well as the new additions from the Tide’s 2019 recruiting class, on paper, it looked more than logical for Alabama to return to the CFB Playoff.
But, injuries.
Before the season even started, Joshua McMillon, and Dylan Moses went down for the season. And then later on, Eyabi Anoma and Antonio Alfano decided to transfer. During the season, Alabama would continue to suffer injuries. Labryan Ray, DJ Dale, and Raekwon Davis struggled with injuries, even throughout the season. Simply put, this defense was never anywhere near 100% healthy. And when you factor in losing star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a season ending injury, there’s no denying the fact this team was never 100%.
But, in my opinion, this season is not a failure, by any means. In all honesty, it’s quite the opposite.
Let’s take a moment to remember that even WITH all of the injuries, the Crimson Tide lost two games by a combined 8 points. Alabama lost by 5 points at home to the No. 1 team in the country with an injured Tagovailoa, and then lost on the road to No. 12 Auburn with a backup quarterback who still put up 335 yards and 4 TDs. Simply put, neither one of Alabama’s losses were “bad,” and neither loss made this team give up.
To some, maybe it’s a disappointment to be playing in the Citrus Bowl, but to those, I’d like to remind them that there was a time in Alabama’s history where even making it to a bowl game was a success. But, when you have a program who is used to winning titles, it can feel not as much as a success to play in a Bowl Game, but it shouldn’t have to.
I’m more than proud of how this team has responded to every piece of adversity that they’ve been dealt. A lot of teams would have crumbled when losing most of their experienced defenders and their starting quarterback, but not Alabama. They responded, and never gave up.
I truly think this season ended up being simply a “reloading” year for the Tide. When you realize that several top juniors could be returning for their senior year, there’s a lot to be hopeful for, and those guys still have a lot to prove.
So, no, I don’t think the Citrus Bowl is a failure or let down by ANY means. I think this bowl game is an opportunity for Mac Jones and the crew to finish what they started. Sure, winning another National Championship would be nice, but these guys have created a brotherhood, a team unity, an Ohana. And they’re wanting to finish the season strong. Even though they aren’t playing in the Playoffs, this team still has a lot to play for: each other. And that in and of itself, is priceless.
And let’s be honest, it’s always a good day when you can get a win over Michigan. And Michigan isn’t a bad team. It’s a good team for Alabama to showcase themselves, and it’s a perfect game for Alabama to prove that the dynasty isn’t dead, and that they’ll be back next season more hungry and humble than ever.
Roll Tide.
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