As the Alabama Crimson Tide fight to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive, linebacker Jihaad Campbell knows the stakes have never been higher. With the SEC Championship and a coveted Playoff berth within reach, the Tide’s path to both depends on winning out from here on out.
Following a dominant win over Mercer, Campbell emphasized the importance of focusing on every single moment. “Now we’re deep into the season and just understanding how crucial and how important it is to win every single play, every single down,” Campbell shared. “It doesn’t matter what we’re doing, we got to win. And that has to be the mentality, the mindset going into everything we do.”
The pressure ramps up this Saturday as Alabama heads to Norman to face off against Oklahoma in a critical matchup. With playoff hopes on the line, Campbell’s message is clear: every play counts.
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Alabama’s Backup Players Shine in Dominant Win Over Mercer
In a commanding 52-7 victory over Mercer, Alabama football showcased the depth of its roster, with backup players stepping up and making significant contributions. The third- and fourth-string players provided glimpses of their talent, particularly in key positions like quarterback, running back, and receiver.
Backup Quarterbacks: A Look Into the Future
Ty Simpson, the backup quarterback, was sharp, completing 5 of 10 passes for 71 yards and showing off his mobility with a 43-yard completion to tight end Josh Cuevas after avoiding a sack. Head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Simpson’s ability, saying, “People who know and have watched Ty can see that he has that ability.” Austin Mack, the third-string quarterback, connected with freshman Rico Scott for a 31-yard touchdown, marking his first college touchdown. Freshman Dylan Lonergan finished the game strong, going 5 for 6 with 23 yards, and teaming up with Mack for a 62-yard drive capped off by a touchdown.
A Freshman’s Impact in the Backfield
Freshman Richard Young continued to prove himself as a vital piece of the Tide’s future, rushing for 26 yards and a touchdown on seven carries. Several other running backs, including Daniel Hill, Kevin Riley, JR Gardner, and Michael Lorino III, contributed with a combined 25 yards on 10 attempts. Alabama used seven different running backs throughout the game, giving the backups valuable experience.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends Make Their Mark
Freshman receiver Rico Scott, who had only two catches before Saturday, made his mark with two receptions for 37 yards, including a 31-yard touchdown. His first collegiate score came after a pregame prediction from teammate Ryan Williams: “I told him before the game today, ‘you’re going to score today,’ and now he’s in the end zone.” Tight ends Ty Lockwood and Jay Lindsey each had their first receptions of the season, while Robbie Ouzts scored his first touchdown.
Looking Ahead: A Tough Road Test
With the backups getting crucial playing time, Alabama heads to Norman to face the Oklahoma Sooners on Nov. 23, with playoff hopes still alive. Coach Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are ready for the next challenge as they prepare to take on one of the Big 12’s top teams.
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