Almost everyone knows the story, fable, or urban legend, whatever if may have been, of the elephant getting scared by the mouse. The Crimson Tide seemed a little worried about a tasty bird in the first half of their season opener against the Virginia Tech Hokies.
Both team’s offense was almost non-existent in the first half, with Bama only scoring on three field goals and Tech on a kickoff return. Quarterback Greg McElroy threw an interception deep in Bama territory that eventually led to Tech going up 10-9.
The score stayed pretty close for most of game, as I was expecting. When the 4th quarter came around, the Bama offense really opened up.
Running Back Mark Ingram was the engine for the team, rushing for 150 yards total, with one TD on the ground and one in the air. Alabama has always been known for their rushing game, so Ingram should be a huge factor in their prominence this season.
Greg McElroy threw for 230 yards. Not bad for a first time starter. He did seem confident in throwing the long ball, and scrambled out of trouble in a Michael Vick type fashion.
Bama out-did Tech on yardage and time of possession. The game could’ve been a runaway for them if it wasn’t for things like penalties, lack-luster special team defense and turnovers.
Their defense was definitely stout. Bama has always been known for their defense, and this game showed it. They gave up only 64 rushing and 91 passing yards.
Bama has a great chance to be back in the Georgia Dome in December for the SEC championship against likely opponent Florida. They just need to get past Mississippi and LSU. If so, the SEC Championship could be an imitation of the national championship game in Pasadena because both teams could be ranked 1 and 2.
