Alabama Football: Predictions, keys to victory in SEC title game vs Florida

Keys to Victory

Can either defense do enough to slow down the opposing offense?

Alabama’s offense is operating at a truly elite level right now as Mac Jones is dropping dimes and Devonta Smith is almost uncoverable. Simply sitting back and hoping to prevent big plays is also not enough as Alabama has the personnel to attack defenses in whichever way that they choose. Perhaps the only hope that any defense would have against them is if they are able to pressure Mac Jones.

Florida leads the SEC in sacks as Todd Grantham likes to bring blitzes to get to the quarterback. However, the Alabama offensive line has done a good job of keeping Jones clean this season, and they have made teams pay when bringing extra defenders. Florida’s only chance is if they can generate pressure with just their front four.

Similarly, the Tide need to try to make Kyle Trask uncomfortable. That said, Alabama has been impressive up front over the past few games including recording eight sacks versus Arkansas.

A big question is whether they can contain Florida’s numerous weapons in the receiving corps. Kyle Pitts is still questionable, at least according to Dan Mullen, but assuming he plays, he needs to be treated like a wide receiver which means keeping a cornerback on him and bringing help whenever possible.

The Gators’ leading receiver with almost twice as many catches as Pitts, Kadarius Toney, also presents matchup problems, especially out in space. Look for Patrick Surtain to draw this assignment for Alabama.

Finally, while Florida has struggled to run the ball this season, they like to get their running backs involved with passes out of the backfield by getting them matched up on opposing linebackers. If Alabama can shut down any production from this group, Florida will be very one dimensional.