Lack Of Cutting Edge As Alabama once again struggled and looked lifeless.

For much of the game, Alabama Football didn’t look great, but they managed to secure a 42-16 victory over USF on a Saturday night in Tuscaloosa. This win came as the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium was renamed in honor of legendary coach Nick Saban.

The final score made the game seem more convincing than it was, as Alabama struggled for most of the night, showing a lackluster performance similar to last season’s game against South Florida, though without the rain. The offense faced issues with penalties and fumbles, but timely defensive stops eventually allowed Alabama to pull away.

With tougher games ahead, including a road trip to Wisconsin next week and a matchup against Georgia two weeks later after a bye, significant improvement is needed.

What can we learn from Alabama’s win?

3. The Offensive Line Needs Work
Penalties were once again a major issue for Alabama, continuing from the previous season where they ranked 4th in the nation for penalties. Despite this, they managed to win the SEC and make it to the College Football Playoff, so it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker. However, the offensive line’s struggles to create running lanes and maintain pass protection are concerning. The absence of Kadyn Proctor, a key player last season, hasn’t helped. Proctor’s return will be crucial, but for now, Alabama’s interior line, featuring top guards Tyler Booker and Jaedan Roberts, was less effective due to adjustments. Transfer Geno VanDeMark’s two holding penalties and right tackle Wilkin Formby’s four penalties were problematic. Formby’s poor performance led to Elijah Pritchett replacing him, which resulted in three consecutive touchdown drives. The ongoing competition for the right tackle spot might see Pritchett starting once Proctor is back.2. The Defense Came Through When Needed
Despite challenges posed by USF’s unique offensive approach, Alabama’s defense stepped up when it mattered most. The Tide’s defense faced tough situations, often due to the offense’s mistakes, but managed to make crucial stops. Key plays included a sack by Tim Keenan III, a pivotal tackle by Justin Jefferson, and a crucial defensive stand in the red zone that forced a field goal attempt. These stops helped set up the offense’s eventual touchdown drives, making the final score appear more decisive.

1. Ryan Williams Shined When It Mattered
Though he was relatively quiet for most of the game, freshman standout Ryan Williams made a crucial impact in the fourth quarter. With Alabama leading 21-16, Williams caught a pass from Jalen Milroe and turned it into a 43-yard touchdown, giving Alabama the breathing room they needed against a determined South Florida team.

Even before Ryan Williams scored his third touchdown of the season in the fourth quarter—his third in just two games—it was clear that he had already gained the full trust and confidence of both the coaching staff and quarterback Jalen Milroe.

The Tide frequently targeted Williams with deep passes. Although these attempts didn’t result in completions, Williams managed to draw two pass-interference penalties from USF defensive backs.

Williams led the team in receiving for the second consecutive week, firmly establishing himself as the top wide receiver in his freshman year. He recorded 4 catches for 68 yards and a touchdown.

With his potential still soaring, Williams is expected to make many more significant plays as the season progresses.