re: The time has come!-pick the score-bama-texas! And give reasons!-NO smack with rivals
I've been going back and forth on this one for a while as to how close or not this game will be.
I'm concerned as most are, with the amount of time off prior to this game and how that may affect our teams play. I agree with what another poster said, that the team that handles this better has the edge early, and it will go a long way in determining the outcome of the game.
Either way, both teams will have the same challenge in that regard and I trust CNS's approach to that challenge as he's been there before and expect he'll have the team prepared. I don't expect a repeat of last years game with Utah.
I don't think UT has seen a team that is as physical in the run game as Bama is. I think that will play to Alabama's favor because in that sense, Bama can and will play ball control and keep McCoy on the sidelines, just as they did to UF/Tebow in the SECCG.
I suspect that Alabama's offense will commit to wearing them down defensively by running the ball early and often, and then come out passing.
Bama's defensive secondary will be tested with the McCoy/Shipley tandem, but I think they'll be up to the task, and our defense will try and frustrate McCoy into making mistakes. I expect McClain, Reamer, Anders, Arenas and Dareus to do just that.
I give all the respect in the world to Texas, they deserve to be in this game, and imo, are really the only other team we will have played that is on par with UF.
I'm not overlooking them at all, both teams have had close calls with rival opponents, but its clear both deserve to be in this game and it should be whale of a game. Really one of the best ones in a long time.
I just believe imho, that Bama is a little better all around and particularly along both sides of the lines, and that combined with a strong and physical running game and sound special teams play very well may be the difference here. I also sense a hunger factor there, that is probably stronger for Alabama. It was true of the SECCG and I think its true of this matchup. I forgot to add, I like our coaching staff in this one as well, especially the head man. I don't think there is any better, imho.
Could be closer, but I hope not.
30 Alabama:BigA: Roll Tide!
20 Texas