Alabama football narrowly escaped a potential upset, defeating South Florida 42-16 in a game that was far closer than the scoreline suggests. The Crimson Tide struggled for most of the game, leading by just two points heading into the fourth quarter before pulling away late. Head coach Kalen DeBoer and his team have much to address before their upcoming game against Wisconsin. Here are three key takeaways from the gritty win over USF.
1. Offensive Line Woes Continue
Alabama’s offensive line struggled mightily, hampered by a last-minute reshuffle. Left tackle Kadyn Proctor missed the game due to a shoulder injury suffered in pregame warmups, forcing the Tide to make adjustments. Tyler Booker moved to left tackle, while Geno VanDeMark stepped in at left guard, replacing Booker. Unfortunately, these changes did not pay off.
The offensive line struggled to provide protection for quarterback Jalen Milroe, who was constantly under pressure. Both VanDeMark and right tackle Wilkin Formby were frequently overwhelmed by USF’s pass rush, making it difficult for the offense to sustain drives. The lack of blocking not only affected the passing game but also hindered the run game, as Alabama was unable to establish a consistent ground attack.
Proctor’s absence was felt throughout the game, and his return can’t come soon enough for Alabama’s ailing offensive line. DeBoer expressed optimism that Proctor would be ready for the Wisconsin game, which will be crucial if the Tide hopes to bounce back with a stronger performance.
2. A Sluggish Start
Despite being heavy favorites, Alabama struggled to find its rhythm in the first half. South Florida took an early 3-0 lead, and Alabama’s offense looked out of sync for much of the first two quarters. While the Crimson Tide managed to regain the lead, their inability to generate big plays or sustain long drives left the door open for the Bulls to stay competitive.
South Florida quarterback Byrum Brown found success on the ground, using his legs to extend drives and keep Alabama’s defense off balance. Penalties and a lack of discipline further compounded Alabama’s issues, and the Tide appeared to lack the urgency and explosiveness that has been a hallmark of their previous performances.
While Alabama eventually pulled away, the slow start was a troubling sign for a team with championship aspirations. The Tide cannot afford similar lapses against tougher competition.
3. Penalty Problems Plague Alabama
Penalties were a major issue throughout the game, with Alabama repeatedly shooting itself in the foot. On South Florida’s opening drive, a defensive holding call on Domani Jackson negated a third-down stop, allowing the Bulls to extend the drive and ultimately take a 3-0 lead on a field goal.
Offensively, Alabama also struggled with penalties. Geno VanDeMark’s holding penalty wiped out a touchdown by Justice Haynes, and although the Tide still scored on that drive, the lack of discipline was evident. Later, a false start by Tyler Booker stalled another drive, forcing Alabama to punt.
The first half ended with Alabama committing eight penalties for 60 lost yards, including multiple holding calls that nullified key plays. A 74-yard touchdown run by Milroe was called back due to a holding penalty, killing the momentum and resulting in another Alabama punt. DeBoer has previously stressed the importance of avoiding “foolish penalties,” but his team’s repeated mistakes nearly cost them the game.
Alabama may have come away with the win, but the performance against South Florida left much to be desired. The offensive line needs to improve, the team must start faster, and the penalties have to be cleaned up if the Crimson Tide wants to remain in contention for a championship this season. With Wisconsin up next, DeBoer and his staff have plenty to work on to ensure a more polished performance going forward.
