Alabama Looks to Reassert Dominance Against Injury-Plagued Missouri
No. 15 Alabama Crimson Tide (5-2) vs. Missouri Tigers (6-1)
Saturday, October 26th, 2024 – 3:30 PM EST
Bryant-Denny Stadium – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
TV: ABC
LINE: Alabama -17 O/U 51 (Betonline)
This SEC clash features two teams heading in opposite directions. Alabama, after suffering back-to-back losses and tumbling down the rankings, is desperate for a statement win to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive. Missouri, despite a winning record, has also slipped in the polls and faces a monumental challenge with a depleted roster.
The Tide is Turning?
Alabama’s recent struggles are uncharacteristic for the perennial powerhouse. Losses to Vanderbilt and Tennessee have exposed vulnerabilities on both sides of the ball. The Crimson Tide will be looking to re-establish their physical dominance and offensive explosiveness against a Missouri team that might be ripe for the picking. Expect Alabama to lean heavily on their running game and try to control the clock.
Tigers Wounded
Missouri’s offense is in dire straits. With quarterback Brady Cook doubtful and key skill players like Mookie Cooper and Nate Noel also likely out, the Tigers will be hard-pressed to generate much offense against a hungry Alabama defense. Backup quarterback Drew Pyne struggled mightily against Auburn, and it’s difficult to envision him finding success against a much tougher opponent.
Key Matchups:
- Alabama’s Offensive Line vs. Missouri’s Defensive Front: Can Alabama’s offensive line create running lanes and give their quarterback time to throw? Missouri’s defensive front will need to play a near-perfect game to slow down the Tide.
- Alabama’s Secondary vs. Missouri’s Receivers: Even with Mookie Cooper out, Missouri has some talented receivers. Alabama’s secondary, which has been susceptible to big plays this season, will need to be disciplined and avoid giving up explosive gains.
Prediction:
Given Missouri’s injury woes, it’s hard to see this game being competitive. Alabama’s talent and motivation should overwhelm the Tigers. Expect the Crimson Tide to win convincingly and cover the spread.
Alabama 38, Missouri 13
Final Thoughts:
This game is crucial for Alabama. They need a dominant win to boost their playoff resume and regain some confidence. For Missouri, this game is about survival and hoping to avoid a blowout. While the Tigers have exceeded expectations this season, this matchup against a wounded but still dangerous Alabama team appears to be a bridge too far.