As Alabama and Tennessee prepare to face off in a highly anticipated SEC matchup, one of the biggest questions surrounding the game is whether Alabama’s defense can contain Dylan Sampson and the potent Tennessee rushing attack. This game is not only crucial for both teams’ standings in the SEC but also serves as a test of Alabama’s ability to shut down one of the conference’s most dynamic and versatile backs. Dylan Sampson, Tennessee’s standout running back, has been a key weapon for the Volunteers, bringing speed, power, and a knack for breaking big plays. For Alabama, slowing him down will be central to their game plan if they hope to come out on top.
Dylan Sampson has emerged as one of the most dangerous running backs in the SEC. Standing at 5’11” and weighing in at around 200 pounds, Sampson is a well-rounded back who can run between the tackles, break runs outside, and catch passes out of the backfield. His combination of vision, agility, and acceleration allows him to exploit gaps in opposing defenses, making him a constant threat to break off long runs.
Sampson’s versatility is what makes him particularly challenging for defenses like Alabama’s. He can power through arm tackles, cut on a dime, and has the speed to outrun defensive backs once he hits the open field. This season, he has shown an ability to carry the Tennessee offense, especially in critical moments when the Volunteers need to control the clock and wear down opposing defenses.
Alabama has a history of being able to shut down rushing attacks, but Sampson represents a different kind of challenge. He has been a consistent performer in both SEC play and non-conference matchups, with multiple 100-yard rushing games under his belt. Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel has built a balanced offense that relies heavily on Sampson’s ability to pick up crucial yardage, whether on first down to stay ahead of the chains or in the red zone to punch it into the end zone.
Alabama’s defense under Nick Saban has long been known for its physicality, discipline, and ability to stop the run. This season, the Crimson Tide defense has been solid, with standout performances from their defensive line and linebacking corps. Led by edge rushers like Dallas Turner and inside linebacker Deontae Lawson, Alabama has shown the ability to get into the backfield and disrupt plays before they develop.
Against Tennessee, Alabama will need to rely on these strengths. The defensive line’s ability to hold their gaps and prevent Sampson from finding running lanes will be crucial. Additionally, the linebackers must play disciplined football, reading Tennessee’s blocking schemes and meeting Sampson at the point of attack to prevent him from gaining momentum.
However, Alabama’s defense has shown some vulnerabilities, particularly against up-tempo offenses that spread the field. Tennessee’s offense under Heupel is known for its fast pace, which can make it difficult for defensive units to substitute and adjust. The Volunteers will likely try to use this tempo to keep Alabama off balance, creating opportunities for Sampson to exploit mismatches and find creases in the defensive front.
Containing Dylan Sampson does not simply mean stopping him at the line of scrimmage. For Alabama, it will be just as important to prevent him from turning short gains into explosive plays. This means that Alabama’s defensive backs and linebackers must be sound in their tackling, as Sampson has the ability to break free from initial contact.
In previous games, Alabama’s defense has at times struggled with missed tackles, which could spell trouble if Sampson gets into the second level. The focus for Alabama will need to be on gang-tackling and swarming to the ball, ensuring that multiple defenders are in position to bring down Sampson on every play.
Additionally, Alabama’s edge defenders will have a significant role in this matchup. Tennessee likes to use outside zone runs and sweeps to get Sampson into space, where he can use his speed and agility. If Alabama’s edge players can set a hard edge and force Sampson back inside toward their interior defenders, it could limit his ability to get into open space where he’s most dangerous
Another factor in Alabama’s ability to stop Sampson will be the performance of their own offense. If Alabama can control the time of possession, they can keep Sampson and the Tennessee offense on the sidelines, limiting their opportunities to break down the defense. This means that Alabama’s offense, led by quarterback Jalen Milroe, will need to sustain drives and convert on third downs.
Alabama’s ability to establish their own running game, with backs like Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams, will be key. A strong rushing attack can wear down Tennessee’s defense and keep Alabama in favorable field positions, reducing the pressure on their own defense to hold up for four quarters against Sampson.
If the Crimson Tide’s offense can score early and build a lead, it could also force Tennessee into more passing situations, which would take some of the focus off of Sampson. However, if the game remains close throughout, Sampson’s ability to keep Tennessee’s offense moving will be a constant concern for Alabama.
Stopping a player like Dylan Sampson is no easy task. He brings a unique combination of speed, power, and versatility that can challenge even the best defenses in the country. Alabama’s ability to slow him down will hinge on their discipline, tackling, and maintaining control of the tempo of the game.
If Alabama can play to their defensive strengths and prevent Sampson from finding open lanes, they will have a strong chance of neutralizing Tennessee’s run game. But if Sampson is able to get into space and turn short gains into big plays, it could be a long afternoon for the Crimson Tide defense.
Ultimately, the matchup between Alabama’s defense and Dylan Sampson will be one of the defining factors in this SEC showdown. With so much on the line, both in terms of conference standings and national rankings, all eyes will be on Tuscaloosa to see if the Crimson Tide can rise to the challenge and stop one of the SEC’s most dynamic running backs.