Rapid Reaction: Alabama scores late, survives in Fayetteville
By Jordan Cox
Published:
Here are some quick thoughts on Alabama’s 14-13 win over Arkansas.
What it means: Alabama again struggled and looked lifeless at times, but Blake Sims engineered a scoring drive early in the fourth quarter and found DeAndrew White on a 6-yard touchdown pass to give Alabama the 14-13 lead which it would never give up. The Crimson Tide were far from perfect and struggled to run the football, but got a tough road win against a much improved team.
What I didn’t like: Secondary play. Alabama surrendered 245 yards to an average quarterback in Brandon Allen, who completed 21-of-40 passes. That unit has some question marks to shore up as it turns its attention to Texas A&M next weekend. However — when it counted — the anchor of the secondary, Landon Collins, came up with an interception to seal the win.
Who’s the man?: Blake Sims. He protected the football and threw the go-ahead touchdown late to secure a hard-fought, yet ugly win in Fayetteville. He completed just 11 of 21 passes for 161 yards, but was methodical all game.
Key play: With Arkansas driving with under three minutes left, safety Landon Collins picked off Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen to seal the win for the Crimson Tide. The Alabama secondary gave up some yardage at times, but bowed up late.
What’s next: The Crimson Tide face another tough test in No. 14 Texas A&M who comes calling to Bryant-Denny Stadium next weekend.
After living in Birmingham, Ala., Jordan left the ground zero of SEC Nation to head south to Florida to tell the unique stories of the renowned tradition of SEC football. In his free time, his mission is to find the best locales around.
