Alabama (6-6) vs. Oklahoma State (6-6)
Alabama went 10-2 last year, earning coach Mike Shula a huge extension. Alabama went 6-6 this year, earning coach Mike Shula a pink slip. It seems fairly undeserving though, as Alabama outgained 10 of their 12 opponents, and the other two games were winnable; a 2-touchdown loss to LSU which could've at least been closer if not for two Tide turnovers, and a 3-point loss to Tennessee (although, admittedly, Vols turnovers were the only reason Alabama got that close.) Still, Alabama should've beaten Arkansas (missed FGs) and Auburn (turnovers), and played even in losses to Florida and Mississippi State.
Oklahoma State throws for a lot of yards, the 16th most in the country in fact, along with having the #8 scoring offense. Surprisingly, the Cowboys ran for more yards than they passed, though that was helped by QB Bobby Reid's mobility, as he was the team's #4 rusher with 466 yards. The Cowboys have been about in line with expectations, and the team has enough young players returning (Reid, plus the team's top three rushers) to make a run in the next year or two.
Alabama's been a pretty steady team, only allowing more than 400 yards in one game (LSU) and only coming under 300 yards offensively in two (Tennessee and, of all teams, Florida International.) Still, OK State's offense has been pretty high powered, only being held under 340 in a loss at Texas. OK State's offense may be able to get theirs, but again, Alabama's outgained pretty much everyone they've faced. If Alabama's offense was as bad as their perception, that'd be one thing, but they're no Florida State. The Crimson Tide is easily the much stronger 6-6, and I actually wouldn't be surprised if this turned into a fairly fun and offense-based affair.
My Pick: Alabama
Confidence (out of 5): 3
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment