Much like the 2021 season, Alabama is lined up across Mississippi State following a difficult loss. And if last season proved anything, the Crimson Tide typically have success against the Bulldogs following its defeat.
That good fortune carried over for at least the first half of Saturday’s contest, as Alabama was able to keep the explosive plays in check.
What’s usually a pass-happy attack from Mike Leach’s air raid offense, Mississippi State caught Alabama’s defense off guard early on with some well-placed runs that kept drives alive for the Bulldogs. It also set out to dominate the time of possession as it kept the ball for nearly triple the time compared to Alabama.