Alabama Football: 5 reasons why the Crimson Tide will struggle in 2017

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Head coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts after the Clemson Tigers defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide 35-31 in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Jeff Gammons/Getty Images) /

5. A Week 1 loss to Florida State could destroy their Playoff run

One of the best games of the year comes in the first week of the season. When Alabama battles Florida State, almost the entire college football world will be watching. If either of these two teams slip up, it could cost the loser a potential Playoff berth in just their first game.

The quarterback battle between Hurts and Francois will also affect the Heisman race. Since each quarterback is a sophomore and both had a big freshman season, the opener will tell a lot about how they will fare in 2017.

Another reason Florida State will be a tough out in Week 1 is the difference in their personnel from last year. While not having running back Dalvin Cook or wide receiver Travis Rudolph could hurt them, it also makes them a dramatically different team to prepare for.

Running backs Jacques Patrick and Cam Akers will carry the load for Florida State this year and junior Nyqwan Murray will be the primary receiver. While the Noles still have threats at every skill position of offense, Saban has to prepare for a different style of play when the two teams meet in Atlanta.

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