Thoughts On: Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Texas A&M Aggies Prediction
By Rich Lynch
Thoughts On: No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide(1-0) vs. No. 6 Texas A&M Aggies(2-0)
Earlier this week a Texas state vanity license plate with the label “12TH Man” sold for $115,000. That exemplifies the epic level of interest in the Aggies program this season, reaching an apex this afternoon when Alabama lines up against Texas A&M on Kyle Field in College Station.
Alabama dismantled Virginia Tech, 35-10, in its only game this season. The Crimson Tide looked discombobulated along the offensive line, yet still beat the Hokies by more than THREE touchdowns.
Tide salesman Nick Saban has had two weeks to get everything in order for this game. Do not forget that Saban and the Tide lost to Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel and the Aggies in Tuscaloosa last season — he hasn’t. So not only has Saban had the time to game-plan for this “Superbowl-ish” tilt but he has the added incentive of avenging a home loss.
Johnny Manziel personifies Texas A&M football. However, he has been in-and-out of trouble since he chose to sign with the Aggies program over the Oregon Ducks.
The Aggies have defeated fellow Lone Star State programs Rice and Sam Houston State by a combined score of 117-59. Manziel has not played an entire four quarters of football yet this season. Nevertheless he has accumulated 520 yards passing and six touchdowns. Along with that he has rushed for a relatively paltry 55-yards and one touchdown.
There are three keys to this game. First, has Alabama solidified its offensive line and specifically pass protection? If the answer is yes, then Alabama has an advantage. If the atmosphere impacts the inexperienced Alabama offensive line then Texas A&M has an advantage.
Second, does Johnny Manziel play the entire game? He missed the first half Week 1 because of suspension and was benched down the stretch. Certainly, the NCAA has told the referees to watch Manziel closely as they do not want him running roughshod on national television. Alabama’s defense is also going to come after him. If the answer is yes then A&M has an advantage.
Finally, there is the home field advantage that the Aggies have at Kyle Field, “Home of the 12th Man.” Advantage Aggies.
Expect a high scoring game with the 12th Man being the difference. Texas A&M wins.
Final Score: Texas A&M 34, Alabama 31