Tommy Rees’ fiancee weighs in on play calling as Alabama leans on running game

Tommy Rees’ fiancee recently weighed in on the Alabama play-calling with a picture of herself wearing a popular hat, which states, “Run the damn ball.”

This is a nod to Alabama’s renewed emphasis on the ground and pound attack that was especially effective early in Nick Saban’s career in Tuscaloosa. Rees is engaged to Emily Cavalaris, according to his Alabama bio.

At halftime, Alabama had 22 carries for 98 yards and 3 touchdowns, including 2 from new starter Jalen Milroe. But it was a clear plan from the outset, as Alabama averaged 5.8 yards per carry on 70 yards in the first quarter. In the first half overall, Alabama had 4 rushing plays that went for at least 10 yards.

Roydell Williams and Jase McCellan combined for 16 carries for 75 yards.

At halftime to Cole Cubelic on SEC Network, coach Nick Saban said Alabama needed to control the line of scrimmage a little better, and better protect Milroe so he can create explosive plays.

Alabama has run the ball 17 times already in the first half. Tommy Rees’ wife posted this photo a while back. pic.twitter.com/saVri9PL5N

— Touchdown Alabama (@TDAlabamaMag) September 3, 2023

Keith Farner

A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.