Friday, October 1, 2010

Clash of the Titans: Florida/Alabama

FAYETTEVILLE - SEPTEMBER 25: Head coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks on against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on September 25, 2010 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Alabama won 24-20. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
As the Alabama Crimson Tide continue to run the “gauntlet” of the SEC, ‘Bama will come face-to-face with the best all-around team on the 2010 schedule…the Florida Gators.

The Gators no longer have the “magic” of Tim Tebow, but they have the talent that many Florida fans have come to expect and appreciate.

Both Florida and Alabama are obviously loaded with talent…but who has more talent?

As is the case with many “epic” games, the “small things” can mean the most.

Can the Florida defensive front handle the Alabama offensive line?

In what could be the most vital element of the game, will Florida be able to limit the “push” of the Crimson Tide offensive front?

Football “life” begins in the “trenches” and at the point of attack. It will be vital for Alabama to establish a strong offensive presence…and that begins on the line.

Taking nothing away from Florida, but I feel once the game arrives in the final period of play, the Alabama offensive line will allow the Tide running game to possibly seal the fate of the Gators.

On the flipside, the Florida offensive line “could” have problems with the Alabama defensive front, especially in the latter stages of the game.

TUSCALOOSA, AL - NOVEMBER 07:  Julio Jones #8 of the Alabama Crimson Tide against the Louisiana State University Tigers at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 7, 2009 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Outside of the “trenches,” I look for the wide receiver position to play a crucial role in the game.

Who has the better group of receivers? Alabama.

Florida has talent, (Thompson, Burton, etc) but Alabama has more weapons. More weapons...more options/chances.

If the Gators are able to contain the Alabama ground attack, Julio Jones will likely see man coverage…which is a plus for the Alabama offense.

The Gators have a talented secondary, but Julio Jones on an “island” would be a tall order for any defense.

On the other side, John Brantley is a talented quarterback for the Gators…but he’s no Ryan Mallett. One would have to like Alabama’s chances when the Tide decides to pressure the Gator signal caller.

The Alabama offensive line, the ground attack and possible man coverage on Tide receivers “could” spell trouble for Florida.

Florida is a great team, but from top to bottom…Alabama is better.

Unless ‘Bama turns the ball over and gives the Florida offense a short field several times during the game…you have to like Alabama’s chances at home.

ALABAMA 31
FLORIDA 20

tirerack.com

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