This pass weekend, Alabama football barely survived scraping by South Carolina 27-25 in a game that was supposed to be an easy win. After the unbearable loss to Vanderbilt the previous week, alarms are going off across the college football world. Though once considered invincible, could this be the start of an unprecedented decline for Bama?
Alabama, favored by more than three touchdowns against South Carolina, struggled to maintain dominance throughout the game. Scoring with 43 seconds left, the Gamecocks rallied, and nearly converting an onside kick into a game-winning drive. Alabama’s defense allowed South Carolina to average 5.3 yards per play, a troubling statistic that shows Bama’s vulnerability.
This is uncharted territory for a program like Alabama. The team averaged just 5.1 yards per play offensively—marking one of their worst performances of the season. Additionally turnovers and miscues have become too frequent. “This is not the Alabama standard,” DeBoer admitted post-game, echoing sentiments from frustrated fans. Bama’s offensive struggles, including two turnovers and a safety, are signs that something is deeply off with the Crimson Tide.
Speculation about the future of Alabama’s dynasty is intensifying. The team has been inconsistent, from a shaky quarterback situation to average defense. Before this decline, Alabama was contending for a top spot in the polls. After losing to Vanderbilt and winning this game barely, the Tide’s place in the SEC and nationally seems in jeopardy.
Barstool Bama noted: “This is the worst Alabama defense I’ve ever seen, not even close.” For a program known for excellence these breakdowns are cause for serious concern. Bama’s remaining schedule is daunting to say the least. Alabama will need to recover quickly.
Once considered awe inspiring, the recent Crimson Tide appears to have lost its edge which is something that no one expected. Could this be the beginning of the end? Based on their unprecedented struggles so far, the answer may be yes.