Nick Saban was concerned all week about Alabama getting ready for Mercer, and having the proper preparation for Mercer this week.

Despite leading 31-0 at halftime, the Alabama coach shared with Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network why he didn’t like what he saw on offense. Cubelic asked Saban if QB Bryce Young needed to improve.

“I don’t think we played great on offense, I don’t think it’s Bryce’s fault,” Saban said. “I don’t think we’re executing the plays, I don’t think we’re controlling the line of scrimmage up front, they’re moving a little bit on us and we’re coming off people and pass protection has not been great. We’ve had a couple dropped balls, so it’s not about Bryce, it’s really about everybody else executing.”

Asked about the defense facing a unique multi-back run-heavy offense, the coach was more pleased.

“I think they had a little better energy and intensity about preparing for the game,” Saban said.