Quick thoughts from Alabama’s 25-20 win over No. 1 Mississippi State:

What it means: Alabama cemented itself as the best one-loss team in college football with its dominating win over No. 1 Mississippi State. The Crimson Tide continue to take care of business, and now are in prime position to get to Atlanta.

What I liked: The defensive play. Alabama attacked Dak Prescott and Josh Robinson all night, and the Crimson Tide dominated the line of scrimmage. The secondary pressed Mississippi State’s receivers all afternoon, picking off Prescott three times. Kirby Smart got the Bulldogs out of their element from the start, and applied relentless pressure. The tone was set early in the first quarter when Trey DePriest and a host of Crimson Tide defenders tackled Josh Robinson for a safety.

What I didn’t like: For much of the third quarter, Alabama’s offense stalled. It wasn’t until midway through the fourth quarter that the offense woke up, going on a 15-play, 76-yard touchdown drive. Alabama has stretches in games where it goes too long stagnant on offense.

Key plays: On the aforementioned scoring drive in the fourth quarter, it was third-and-eight, and Blake Sims scrambled for 10 yards to provide a spark for the Tide. Prior to that play, Alabama had struggled all game on third downs. On that drive, however, the Crimson Tide converted three third downs.

What’s next: Alabama hosts Western Carolina a week ahead of the Iron Bowl. Expect Nick Saban to temper talk of Auburn this week as he tries to keep his team focused on the Catamounts.