The Alabama Crimson Tide managed over 500 yards of total offense in route to a 40-14 win over Florida International at Bryant-Denny Stadium Saturday night.
Even though Tide fans were flustered and confused by a first half performance which saw FIU take a 14-13 lead, ‘Bama retained the advantage before the half (20-14) and dominated the remainder of the contest.
Offensively, quarterback Greg McElroy has been outstanding. McElroy completed 14 consecutive passes against FIU which set a new Crimson Tide record for most consecutive completions in ‘Bama history. The new mark broke the old record of 12 held by former Tide quarterbacks Andrew Zow and John Parker Wilson. In front of the home crowd McElroy finished the night 18-for-24 with 241 yards and 1 touchdown pass to receiver Mike McCoy.
In the special teams department Alabama once again had a rough night defending the return. For the second consecutive game the Tide allowed a kickoff to be “taken to the house” for a touchdown. One can only assume that kick coverage will be a special point of emphasis this week in practice. On the positive side, placekicker Leigh Tiffin tied his father (Van Tiffin) for the third most field goals converted in school history. Tiffin now sits at 59 career field goals which places behind Philip Doyle (78) and Michael Proctor (65) respectively.
Senior receiver Mike McCoy and freshman running back Trent Richardson were very impressive against the Golden Panthers. McCoy, who became a favorite target of Greg McElroy due to a knee injury suffered by Julio Jones, had a career night. Mike caught 5 passes for 100 yards and a touchdown. Running back Trent Richardson led ‘Bama in rushing and put on a showcase for the fans at Bryant-Denny. Considered by many to be the most sought after high school recruit in the nation, Richardson proved his “paper clippings” were legit. Trent rushed for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns on 15 carries against FIU.
The ‘Bama defense was once again a “brick house” against the run. FIU could only muster a single yard on the ground. Alabama was also officially credited with 5 sacks for a loss of 38 yards.
On the injury front, Julio Jones left the game very early in the contest with what appears to be a bruised knee. Jones is scheduled for re-evaluation and I will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Roy Upchurch is reported to have a sprained ankle, however, initial diagnosis imply the injury is not serious enough to keep him out of action this weekend against North Texas.
Finally, the worst injury appears to be that of defensive end Damion Square. Initial reports suggest Square has a major knee injury which will require surgery.
NOTE: In the coming days I will post a ‘Bama/North Texas preview as well as an injury report.
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