Alabama double-dips against Vanderbilt after early offensive struggles
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After some deliberation, the Alabama Crimson Tide wound up starting a hobbled Keelon Russell at quarterback on Saturday at Vanderbilt. Through five drives, the Crimson Tide had posted just 100 total yards of offense. With 4:13 remaining in the first half, head coach Kalen DeBoer’s team trailed 3-0.
It felt as if a repeat of the Commodores’ 2024 upset was in store. Then, all momentum shifted. Following a Vandy pass interference penalty, running back Daniel Hill busted a 13-yard run right after a 20-yard carry to get Alabama in scoring range. Moments later, after a defensive holding whistle, the Crimson Tide finally found points on Russell’s 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Marshall Pritchett.
Alabama’s first half touchdown gave its offense an opportunity to double up to start the third quarter. The Crimson Tide did so in just six plays, cracking double-digits on Russell’s 39-yard touchdown toss to wide receiver Lotzeir Brooks.
Vanderbilt snagged a field goal on its first drive of the second half to cut its deficit to 14-6. Alabama appears to have locked in, though, after its sluggish start. Noah Rogers returned the ensuing Commodore kickoff to the Vanderbilt 12-yard line to set up Brooks’ second receiving score of the game.
The Crimson Tide now lead the Commodores 21-6 with 7:13 remaining in the third quarter. You can watch Alabama and Vanderbilt tussle on SEC Network.
