Alabama came out with a run-heavy game plan in the Cotton Bowl matchup with Cincinnati, and it paid off early. Cincinnati, though, held in there and kicked a field goal to keep it within a possession.

On the one hand, Alabama appeared to try and set the tone with its offensive line and physical play. But did the Crimson Tide call so many running plays to stay away from Cincinnati’s star cornerbacks?

Early on, Slade Bolden made a touchdown catch, and had another catch to contribute and help Alabama ease the loss of John Metchie, who was out after he tore his ACL in Atlanta against Georgia.

Ja’Core Brooks then helped Alabama bust the game open with a 44-yard touchdown with 1:36 remaining in the first half to give the Crimson Tide a 17-4 lead it took to halftime.

Here’s a sampling of the reaction from fans and media: