Three Things to Watch For in Alabama’s Home Matchup Against Mississippi State

Three Things to Watch For in Alabama’s Home Matchup Against Mississippi State

In the world of college football, every game carries its own significance, and when it comes to Alabama, the stakes are always high. Head coach Nick Saban’s program has established a tradition of excellence, and despite occasional bumps in the road, the Crimson Tide are always in the hunt for a national championship. This season, as Alabama continues to strive toward another SEC title and College Football Playoff berth, their home matchup against Mississippi State holds particular importance. Not only will this game provide an opportunity for Alabama to showcase their strengths, but it also gives Mississippi State a chance to upset one of the most storied programs in college football.

With the game rapidly approaching, it’s essential to highlight a few key storylines that will help determine the outcome of the matchup. From Alabama’s explosive offense to Mississippi State’s defensive adjustments, there are plenty of fascinating elements to follow. Here are three things to watch for as Alabama takes the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium for this crucial SEC showdown.

1. Alabama’s Quarterback Play: Jalen Milroe’s Development Under Pressure

One of the biggest talking points surrounding Alabama this season has been the development of Jalen Milroe, the starting quarterback who took over after an offseason battle for the position. While Milroe showed flashes of brilliance, he also displayed moments of inconsistency, which left many wondering if he could truly lead the Crimson Tide to the level of excellence that fans have come to expect.

Against Mississippi State, Milroe will face a significant test. While Mississippi State’s defense has had its ups and downs, they are still capable of causing problems for quarterbacks, especially those who struggle with consistency. Milroe, with his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, is expected to be a key part of Alabama’s offensive attack, but how he manages the pocket and delivers throws under pressure will be something to closely monitor.

• Will Milroe continue to develop his accuracy and decision-making? This has been a lingering question surrounding his game. Although his raw talent is undeniable, Milroe’s ability to process the game quickly and avoid forced throws will be key against Mississippi State’s defensive scheme. The Bulldogs run a 3-3-5 defense that relies on mixing coverage and rushing schemes to confuse quarterbacks, and Milroe’s ability to read defenses pre-snap and make quick, smart decisions will be critical to Alabama’s success.
• Can Milroe continue to limit turnovers? Turnovers have been a problem at times for Milroe, and Mississippi State will look to exploit any opportunities to take the ball away. In Alabama’s offense, maintaining possession is vital for staying on schedule, controlling the game, and avoiding unnecessary pressure on their defense. Milroe will need to balance taking risks with protecting the football. His ability to do this will go a long way in determining how well Alabama executes offensively.
• How effective is Milroe’s rushing ability? As a dual-threat quarterback, Milroe has the potential to break open a game with his legs. Mississippi State will have to account for his mobility, and Milroe’s ability to turn broken plays into big runs could be the difference-maker in a tight game. Expect to see him use his legs in key situations, especially in short-yardage or third-and-long situations.
• 

As Milroe continues to adjust to the starting role, this game presents an opportunity to prove he can execute under the lights in a key SEC matchup. If he shows growth, it will be a strong signal that Alabama is on track to make a deep run into the postseason.

2. Mississippi State’s Defensive Scheme and Pressure on Alabama’s Offensive Line

Alabama has long been known for their ability to dominate on the offensive side of the ball, but the Crimson Tide’s success begins with the trenches. One of the key factors that will play a pivotal role in this matchup is Alabama’s offensive line and how well they can protect Jalen Milroe from the pressure Mississippi State’s defense brings. The Bulldogs, under head coach Zach Arnett, run a unique 3-3-5 defense, which is designed to confuse quarterbacks by utilizing a blend of defensive linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs who all blitz at different times, making it difficult for the offensive line to pick up every threat.

• Can Alabama’s offensive line handle Mississippi State’s pressure? Alabama’s offensive line, while talented, has had its struggles at times this season in picking up blitzes and creating running lanes. The Bulldogs are known for their ability to mix up coverages and bring different pressure packages to keep quarterbacks off balance. This is something that Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien will need to address before the game, as controlling the line of scrimmage is essential in any SEC matchup.
• How will Alabama manage the 3-3-5? Mississippi State’s defensive front is built to create havoc and confusion, particularly by using unorthodox blitzing schemes and aligning players in unexpected positions. For Alabama, which typically features a strong offensive line, managing the shifting fronts of the 3-3-5 will be crucial. If Alabama can give Milroe the time he needs to throw and establish a solid running game, they’ll likely be able to control the tempo and dictate the flow of the game.
• Alabama’s run game: A strong ground game has traditionally been one of the hallmarks of Alabama’s success, and Jahmyr Gibbs (or whoever takes the reins as the primary running back) could play a significant role in this matchup. If Alabama’s offensive line can create space for the running backs, it will force Mississippi State to respect the run, which in turn will open up passing lanes for Milroe. The key to Alabama’s offense on Saturday could be their ability to run the ball effectively early in the game.

While Alabama’s offensive line has shown flashes of brilliance, there have been times this season where they’ve struggled against teams that bring different types of defensive pressure. Against Mississippi State’s confusing defensive front, the battle in the trenches will be one of the most critical elements of the game.

3. Mississippi State’s Offensive Challenges Against Alabama’s Elite Defense

While Mississippi State’s defense has been the focus of much attention, the other side of the ball poses significant questions for the Bulldogs as well. Mississippi State’s offense, led by quarterback Will Rogers, has been effective at times this season, but it will face a stiff challenge in trying to move the ball against Alabama’s vaunted defense. Under Nick Saban, Alabama’s defense has consistently been one of the best in the country, and in 2024, it remains as stout as ever.

• Can Will Rogers get the ball to his playmakers? Rogers is a talented quarterback with the ability to make all the throws, but Alabama’s defense has a way of making even the most accurate quarterbacks look uncomfortable. With elite pass rushers and a secondary that’s capable of shutting down passing lanes, Mississippi State will have to execute perfectly to move the ball. Rogers will be under pressure to read Alabama’s complex defensive schemes and find open receivers. Given Alabama’s ability to disguise blitzes and play multiple coverages, Rogers will need to make quick, smart decisions to avoid pressure and capitalize on any mistakes the defense makes.
• Alabama’s pass rush: One of the standout features of Alabama’s defense has been their ability to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback. Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell, both highly regarded pass rushers, will be tasked with getting after Rogers and disrupting his rhythm. Rogers’ success depends heavily on his ability to get rid of the ball quickly, but Alabama’s relentless pass rush could force him into uncomfortable situations. How well Alabama generates pressure, particularly on passing downs, will be a key storyline.
• Mississippi State’s ability to run the ball: While the Bulldogs are known for their passing attack, they also need to establish some semblance of a run game to keep Alabama’s defense honest. If Mississippi State is unable to move the ball on the ground, it will make Rogers’ job even more difficult. Alabama’s defensive front, including Javion Cohen and Deontae Lawson, has been dominant in stopping the run this season, and the Bulldogs will need to find creative ways to gain positive yards on first and second downs. Establishing a run game could open up play-action opportunities for Rogers and allow Mississippi State to stretch Alabama’s defense.
• Mississippi State’s ability to handle adversity: Alabama’s defense is designed to force mistakes, and Rogers will have to avoid turnovers to give Mississippi State a chance to compete. Whether through interceptions or fumbles, turnovers could be the difference in this game. Mississippi State has struggled in previous matchups against elite defenses, and their ability to handle adversity will be key. If Rogers is pressured into poor throws or mistakes, it could lead to short fields for Alabama and make the outcome of the game less competitive.

 A Crucial SEC Battle

Alabama’s home matchup against Mississippi State has all the ingredients of a hard-fought SEC clash. With both teams bringing unique challenges to the table, there are plenty of key storylines that will determine the outcome. For Alabama, the development of Jalen Milroe as a leader and playmaker will be crucial, while the Crimson Tide’s offensive line and run game will need to be on point to protect their quarterback and establish offensive balance. On the other side, Mississippi State’s ability to generate offensive production against Alabama’s elite defense will be the biggest hurdle to overcome. Will Rogers and the Bulldogs’ offense face an uphill battle against one of the best defensive units in college football.

As the game unfolds, fans will be glued to these key matchups, as the outcome will have significant implications for both teams’ aspirations in the SEC and beyond. Alabama enters the game as the clear favorite, but with the unpredictable nature of SEC football, nothing is ever guaranteed. Whether Alabama asserts their dominance or Mississippi State manages an upset, this matchup is one that will certainly keep fans on the edge of their seats.