Saturday Spotlight
(22) Auburn Tigers at (1) Alabama Crimson Tide
Auburn: Although they feel they aren’t where they want to be record-wise, they still play hard at the end of the day. To be honest, that’s all you can ask for your football team. Last season, Bo Nix was able to have a successful year because it was his first year starting, and as I always say, there’s never tape on these new starters at key positions so they will always have an edge. This year, Bo has been inconsistent for the Auburn Tigers. But as of late, he’s been on a roll depending on his arm more than his mobility. He’s completing passes down the field and overall, 70 percent completion percentage in his last three games. Even with new guys at key positions on defense, they will always do well under Kevin Steele. It’s rivalry day in Tuscaloosa this afternoon. The annual showdown with the Tide.
Alabama: They’ve been on a tear once again this year as you’d expect. What more can I say about Mac Jones? Last season, we got a little peek of what he can be. He filled in for Tua Tagovailoa after the hip injury and the Crimson Tide didn’t miss much of a beat. This year, they’re still that explosive unit that can push the football down the field consistently. Even after Jaylen Waddle went down with his injury for the year, other receivers have stepped it up for the Crimson Tide. Mac also takes tremendous care of the football. He’s only thrown three interceptions on the year. Whenever I think of Alabama football, I often know a strong defense comes to mind. They’ve been strong all year and it helps when a guy like Dylan Moses is healthy. It’s Auburn week for the Tide. They’re back home again.
Auburn X-Factor: Smoke Monday– He’s the most important piece to this Tigers defense. It’s safe to say he’s the quarterback of the secondary. This kid is all over the field. Smoke plays back in coverage, helps the corners underneath over the top and he can rush the passer.
Alabama X-Factor: John Metchie III– I like how he’s stepped up to become another key weapon in this offense. John can play inside and outside on the perimeter. He gives Mac another threat down the field outside of Devonta Smith. They’ll line him up all over to attack Auburn.
Final Thoughts: It’s rivalry day! Last year, Auburn knocked Alabama out of the playoff picture with their win at Jordan-Hare last season. This game also features two great running backs. Tank Bigsby for Auburn and of course, Najee Harris for the Crimson Tide. I see this being a possession game. Whoever controls the clock better will come out victorious in this one. Alabama must make Nix move around. He’s been comfortable in the pocket as of late.
Prediction: Alabama 41 Auburn 24
