Mrs. Basket Case and I are out of the country, and were unable to watch, but it sounds like aTm did exactly what I expected: shut down the run, and dare Milroe to pass.
They had success against the run and got some pressure. But both the OL and Milroe are clearly maturing. Despite aTm’s success especially early, the OL and Milroe combined to make their gamble blow up often enough to win the game.
Given that aTm‘s front seven is one of the best in the country, and they still lost using the expected game plan, I’m thinking that future DCs will have reason to pause their thinking.
From Jess’ wrap up, it would seem that both the OL and overall defense made good halftime adjustments and held the Aggies to only 3 points in the second half. Also, watched Saban’s press conference, and he seemed really confident for the rest of the season.
I do wonder about the injuries. Against a struggling Arkansas team, we may not need Moore and Burnip. But against the arnge, we will. With no idea as to the severity of Moore’s ankle or Burnip’s muscle pull, we can only hope.
Regardless, you have to love Milroe’s and the OL’s improvement.