Alabama Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Alabama Crimson Tide mascot Big Al waves a flag in the end zone during the second half of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

This game should be Alabama’s easiest game of the season, the lone FCS opponent. Mercer first fielded a football team back in 1892, but only reinstated football in 2013, after a 72-year hiatus according to the school’s media guide.

Mercer head coach Bobby Lamb guided the team to a 6-5 record last season in the school’s third season in the Southern Conference. The team returns second-leading rusher Alex Lakes, although the team appears to be young and inexperienced on the whole.

This game could be a great opportunity for Saban to test out young talent like running back Najee Harris and linebackers Mack Wilson and Ben Davis. It might also be an opportunity to work out any kinks in the secondary or look at the talent buried in the depth chart at wide receiver.

The Crimson Tide feel strongly about the amount of talent the team possesses at the position, but it will be interesting to see who earns starting jobs and serious playing time. At this point, Calvin Ridley appears the only one assured a starting spot, although other players have stood out at various points.

Expect Alabama to gain a sizable lead early and give way to backups during the second half.

Final Score: Alabama 38, Mercer 0 (11-0, 7-0 SEC)

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