After the thumping Alabama put on Vanderbilt last week, they are entering into their second SEC game of the season, against the Ole Miss Rebels. Ole Miss has been playing solid ball, despite their loss to California on Sept. 16. Regardless of the storylines leading into this game, fans are well aware that you can’t always predict what will happen in a marquee game like Alabama v. Ole Miss.
The Rebels are in a unique position as the only team to have beaten Alabama two of the last three seasons. However, those games were under the leadership of former head coach Hugh Freeze. Freeze was relieved of his head coaching duties after it was discovered he’d been using a university phone to solicit escort services. The sins of the coach are not the sins of the team, but with a scandal like that, you’ve got to believe it has taken a toll in the Rebels locker room.
Alabama has only been tested once this season, and that was against a Florida State team that has looked anything but impressive since their loss to the Tide. Whether or not their recent play is due to a hangover from the season-opening loss has yet to be seen. But it is clear that this will be the Tide’s first test since that game.
Here are some key factors that might make the difference for either team.
Alabama’s Pass Rush: It’s no secret that Alabama lost some serious talent to the NFL draft last season. While they are notorious for rolling the next guy in, it’s not always as easy as it sounds. On top of that, the Tide suffered some critical injuries during their opener against FSU. Typically, Alabama exerts their will on opponents by punishing the opposing quarterback, a feature that we didn’t see until the Vanderbilt game. If Alabama wants to jump on Ole Miss earlier, they’re really going to have to have an impact on the quarterback. If not, it’s going to be a long day for the Alabama backfield.
Ole Miss’ Quarterback Shea Patterson: Everything in this game depends on the quarterback. Patterson is putting up impressive numbers this year. The sophomore QB leads the SEC and is second in the nation in passing, averaging 427 yards per game. However, in order for him to sustain that type of productivity, he’s got to have time in the pocket. This only comes if Ole Miss can stop the rush. If the line can keep Bama’ players out of the backfield, then you’ll likely see Patterson go for daggers downfield. But if Alabama disrupts the passing game, it’s going to be tough for Ole Miss to defeat Alabama on a one-dimensional offense.
Alabama is coming in as a 28 point favorite over the Rebels. On top of that, the game is played in Bryant-Denny at night. If Ole Miss wants to defeat the Tide again, they better play lights out football.
Alabama vs. Ole Miss Prediction
Alabama – 42
Ole Miss – 10
