gps_3
Head of Alabama Department of Decision-Making
I'm sure there will be plenty of discussion, especially considering the LSU game last night. But as a conference, went 13-1 in week 1 with varying levels of being impressive. I didn't get to watch too much, but UGA looked very impressive, Florida may be ahead of schedule as Richardson looks to be much improved. Arky didn't look great I've read, but still a good win against a legit opponent. Watched most of the LSU game last night, and yikes. Kelly may have to spend the season making a culture change more than anything. OL looked awful. Boutte looks like he'd rather be anywhere but on the field. Tough injury to that DT who's name escapes me at the minute. Might be a tough season in Baton Rouge. Can't believe this is the same program that had one of the greatest offenses ever just 3 seasons ago
As for Alabama, not too much to be gleaned from an overmatched opponent, but here's what I saw. The offense looks to be more efficient, but with fewer big plays. I think the longest completion Bryce had was like 25 yards. But he threw to 8 WR, so I think developing depth at that position is critical after what happened at the end of last year. The rushing yards look deceiving, as Gibbs and Bryce both had long runs. I was a little disappointed in the push up front, especially considering the opponent. The OL lineup was changed up throughout the game, so I hope this was more about building flexibility and depth before we settle on the 5 starters and the swing OLman. Overall, the offense looked more "NFL-like" than it has the last few years. I don't know if this will continue or even if it's a good thing, but I do think it will allow Bryce to have more control and make the offense more multiple. As for the defense, and I know it's an overmatched opponent, but this is the best I've seen us look in several years. Mostly that they played fast and were in position all game, from starters to backups. Tackling was much better. Looks like we have the experience and the knowledge to play Golding's (Saban's) defense instinctually rather than looking lost out there. I was especially impressed with the DBs. It looks like we may have 4 starter worthy players at CB. I know Ricks was hampered by injury and learning the defense, but watching him play in the game and you can see his potential. I think it's going to be a fun year as a fan. Hoping to avoid the injury bug this season.
Would love to hear comments on other games. I didn't get to watch much, and won't see much next week as I'm going to the Alabama @ Texas game.
As for Alabama, not too much to be gleaned from an overmatched opponent, but here's what I saw. The offense looks to be more efficient, but with fewer big plays. I think the longest completion Bryce had was like 25 yards. But he threw to 8 WR, so I think developing depth at that position is critical after what happened at the end of last year. The rushing yards look deceiving, as Gibbs and Bryce both had long runs. I was a little disappointed in the push up front, especially considering the opponent. The OL lineup was changed up throughout the game, so I hope this was more about building flexibility and depth before we settle on the 5 starters and the swing OLman. Overall, the offense looked more "NFL-like" than it has the last few years. I don't know if this will continue or even if it's a good thing, but I do think it will allow Bryce to have more control and make the offense more multiple. As for the defense, and I know it's an overmatched opponent, but this is the best I've seen us look in several years. Mostly that they played fast and were in position all game, from starters to backups. Tackling was much better. Looks like we have the experience and the knowledge to play Golding's (Saban's) defense instinctually rather than looking lost out there. I was especially impressed with the DBs. It looks like we may have 4 starter worthy players at CB. I know Ricks was hampered by injury and learning the defense, but watching him play in the game and you can see his potential. I think it's going to be a fun year as a fan. Hoping to avoid the injury bug this season.
Would love to hear comments on other games. I didn't get to watch much, and won't see much next week as I'm going to the Alabama @ Texas game.
