Alabama Crimson Tide 2015 Spring Game Recap: 5 Takeaways from A-Day

Apr 18, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) of the white team is grabbed from behind by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Geno Smith (24) of the crimson team during the annual A-day game at Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

3. Going to Ground

The quarterback competition is intriguing but Alabama’s chances to return to the playoff will ultimately come down to its ability to run the ball. Likely starter Derrick Henry scored the only rushing touchdown of the game. Henry did not bust any of his usual long runs, but that is likely due to the limited number of carries (15) that he received.

Kenyan Drake showed off incredible speed in his return from injury. His non-contact jersey kept him from collecting any meaningful stats, but it is likely that Drake will only get better as he continues to heal up.

Alabama struggled to move the ball on the ground without its top two running backs. As much as Alabama runs the ball it needs a talented third string player that it does not seem to have. The team is unusually thin at the position so it will be worth watching that development in the upcoming season.

Next: Secondary looks promising