The showdown between Texas A&M and Alabama is an annual football spectacle that carries enormous weight for both teams. While Texas A&M may not currently hold the divisional championship crown, they remain perennial contenders.
This weekend, the Aggies find themselves on the cusp of securing a third consecutive victory against Alabama, a scenario that was unimaginable just a short while ago. Alabama’s head coach, Nick Saban, is undoubtedly aware of the impending showdown’s significance. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that Alabama’s dominance isn’t what it once was. Their once-stout defensive line has weakened, forcing them to compensate by recruiting top-tier receivers and quarterbacks. Names like Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Bryce Young paired with talented receivers have given way to a younger roster featuring Jalen Milroe, Isaiah Bond, and Kobe Prentice. Saban’s grip on college football appears to be loosening, and they face the prospect of multiple losses with games against Tennessee and LSU still looming.
Furthermore, this game marks the second half of a challenging back-to-back conference road trip for Alabama. Historically, winning consecutive road games in the SEC has proven to be a daunting task. Only three SEC teams have managed to do so since 2018, and notably, Alabama has not achieved this feat during that period.
Heading into this matchup, let’s explore the key aspects that will shape the game.
Texas A&M Football’s Biggest Challenge Yet
The Battle in the Trenches: Texas A&M vs. Alabama’s Vulnerable Offensive Line
The Alabama Crimson Tide will step onto Kyle Field with a vulnerable offensive line. Facing off against Texas A&M’s ferocious defensive front, which has already recorded 14 sacks and 30 tackles for loss in the last two weeks, poses a significant challenge for the Tide.
While some may argue that Alabama’s offensive line won’t replicate the dire statistics of recent games, it’s worth noting that both Arkansas and Auburn, despite enduring the Aggies’ relentless defensive pressure, have allowed fewer sacks per game than Alabama. Specifically, Auburn averages three sacks allowed per game, Arkansas 3.6, and Alabama four sacks per game. Additionally, in the broader category of tackles for loss allowed per game, Alabama’s 7.4 TFLs are on par with Arkansas, while Auburn allows only seven.
Given these numbers, it’s plausible that Texas A&M may experience similar success against Alabama’s offensive line. Alabama’s high sack rate is partially attributed to their quarterback, holding onto the ball too long. Pressuring Milroe will likely be the key to disrupting Alabama’s passing game.
However, it’s important to strike a balance; while the Aggies should apply pressure, they should not rely solely on constant blitzing. Milroe’s limitations make it difficult for Alabama to move the ball consistently, especially in the red zone. Staying disciplined and using a well-placed spy, like Edgerrin Cooper, can neutralize Milroe’s scrambling ability.
Alabama’s Struggles in the Running Game
Alabama’s running game faces a formidable challenge against the Aggies’ stout rush defense, which has allowed only 2.88 yards per carry on average this year. In contrast, the Tide averages 4.09 yards per carry, ranking 82nd nationally.
Furthermore, no opponent this season has reached more than 73% of their rushing average against the Aggies, and no opponent has achieved more than 77% of their average rush success rate. Texas A&M’s ability to defend against the run will put added pressure on Alabama’s passing game to carry the load.
Texas A&M Cracking Alabama’s Defense
On the defensive front, Alabama poses a significant challenge for Texas A&M. Defensive coordinator Kevin Steele has had success against the Aggies in previous matchups. He may employ an aggressive scheme against Texas A&M’s quarterback, Max Johnson, who can struggle under pressure.
Alabama’s talented cornerbacks are likely to disrupt the Aggies’ passing game by jamming receivers at the line and sticking closely to them on quick underneath routes. However, Texas A&M’s coaching staff, led by Jimbo Fisher and his offensive coordinator, Bobby Petrino, will counter this with a well-executed game plan that involves tight ends and presnap motion to create advantageous matchups.
Another potential weakness in Alabama’s defense was exposed by Mississippi State, which found success running to the edge against the Tide. If the Aggies can exploit this vulnerability, it could relieve some of the pressure on Johnson. Success in the ground game, particularly with emerging star Le’Veon Moss, could be crucial.
Execution Is Key
In this high-stakes matchup, Texas A&M must execute their game plan flawlessly. They cannot afford turnovers, especially against a formidable opponent like Alabama. Drop passes and mental lapses must be minimized. Playing disciplined, penalty-free football is paramount for the Aggies to assert themselves as the superior team.
Mental Edge: A Shifting Paradigm
The narrative surrounding this game suggests that Alabama may gain motivation from recent comments made by Ainias Smith, a Texas A&M player. However, history shows that such bulletin board material rarely impacts the outcome. The once-legendary aura surrounding Alabama football is fading, and they are no longer the singular powerhouse in college football. Texas A&M believes they can beat Alabama, as evidenced by their close call last year.
As the Aggies welcome Alabama to their hostile home turf, they carry the mental edge of knowing they should have won on the road last year. Alabama, on the other hand, barely escaped their previous matchup against an underdog opponent. The tide is shifting, and this weekend, the Aggies will prove that they are the better team.
