arkk2002

I agree with your position. The sugar bowl win had Saban's fingerprints all over it. Once he saw that his defense was better than Clemson's offense, Bama went conservative. Played field position, defense and ran the football. The QB executed the game plan just like McCarron and McElroy did before and as a Nick Saban QB is supposed to do.

The video above shows Ridley open on the back level. Underneath, the LB was tracking the eyes of the QB. Yes, open in a very(very) tight window, but why risk a tipped ball and turn it over (live for another down). To me, the kid extended the play, and the receiver stayed alive (chemistry). The result was a touch. I would also add that Bama has not installed and intermediate and short passing game to get the QB in rhythm. Also, if you track the intermediate throws that Hurst has made during the season, they were mostly over the middle. What's also strange to me in that regard is that Daboll was the TE's coach for New England, but the TE in Bama's offensive passing game is non-existent. I've listened to a lot of Hurts distractors, but it appears to me that no one is giving the staff credit for playing the best guy. Saban always plays the best guy and I have no doubt, if he started a true freshman last year, he would not have hesitated on elevating Tua over Hurts this year if he saw where Tus provided a better opportunity for the team to be (more) successful. After all, they're only playing for the national championship (not very successful)

No, he is not - but Clemson's offense (with Kelly) still Converts third downs. I believe Renfro has helped Kelly come along faster (IMO) in that regard. Bama has no clue how to defend pick plays (and Renfro). Bama's only chance is to wake Daboll (OC) up and have some clue of an idea of what to call on third down. If Bama doesn't convert on third down (both sides of the ball), it could get onesided late in the game.

Agreed. Hurts is the least of Bama's problems. First, let's start with Bama installing pick plays (like everyone else). Second, let's start with learning how to defend pick plays. If not, expect Renfro to do a repeat performance Speaking of Hurts, he comes into championship play with experience that Bryant does not. Bama will have a coordinator who has been there all season (without drama). This game should be another classic. Get used to it- we could be back here again next year with these two teams.