Alabama Roars Back in Second Half to Blow Past Kentucky

Second half comeback in Lexington

Alabama erased a halftime deficit on the road to beat Kentucky 45-17 on Saturday. The victory marked the first time head coach Kalen DeBoer won a game with the Crimson Tide after trailing at the break. DeBoer had been 0-7 in those situations previously, moving his overall record with the program to 22-8.

The Crimson Tide trailed 17-14 at halftime following three offensive turnovers, which included an interception returned for a touchdown. Poorly timed defensive penalties also hurt the team early, and headset communication between the offensive coordinator and quarterback stopped working in the third quarter. DeBoer credited veterans Zabien Brown and Ryan Coleman-Williams for keeping the team calm in the locker room.

Defense and ground attack step up

Coordinator Kane Wommack led a defensive unit that completely shut out Kentucky in the second half. The Crimson Tide defense forced two fumbles and two turnovers on downs. Kentucky managed only 209 total yards all afternoon and converted just 1 of 14 third down attempts.

Alabama also found success on the ground during the third and fourth quarters. Running back Daniel Hill led the attack with 104 yards and a touchdown. The team finished with 184 rushing yards when adjusted for sacks.

Russell takes ownership of early errors

Quarterback Keelon Russell completed 16 of 23 passes for 188 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. He also finished with minus 9 rushing yards on eight carries. DeBoer pointed out that Russell needs better passing lanes to avoid tipped balls, but he praised the quarterback for his steady attitude.

Russell owned up to his early mistakes after the game. He noted that he wants to eliminate sloppy play as the team prepares to host Florida State, who beat Alabama in Tallahassee last season.

What it means for the next game

Florida State Seminoles at Alabama Crimson Tide (College Football, Sat, 19 Sep): Alabama Crimson Tide win 89%, Florida State Seminoles win 11%; projected score Alabama Crimson Tide 34, Florida State Seminoles 17. Our safest pick: Florida St +27.5.