Notebook: No. 10 Alabama's Fourth Down Defense Stymies South Florida, Offensive Line Struggles

During an ugly game, the Crimson Tide defense made its mark in South Florida.

TAMPA BAY, Fla. — As the Alabama quarterback battle continues to rage on, a potentially fatal flaw has come to the forefront of attention in the midst of its polarization: Poor offensive line play. 

On Saturday, a week after allowing five sacks versus a daunting Texas defensive front-seven, the Crimson Tide struggled up front once again facing South Florida — allowing five additional sacks versus the Bulls, including three from defensive back Daquan Evans, who had never recorded a sack previously prior to tonight's game.

For South Florida, it was the highest number they've tallied since recording five versus Connecticut in 2019. 

"We knew they were going to pressure a lot," Alabama head coach Nick Saban said. "They've got a really good pressure package. We messed up the protections several times. We got beat a couple times. We need to get that fixed because that was an area that's been a consistent problem for us all year. Last week with the sacks, this week with the sacks. You know, those are drive killers and we've got to eliminate that."

After back-to-back tumultuous performances, it'll be back to the drawing board before Alabama's first SEC test of the year in Lane Kiffin's Ole Miss Rebels.

Quarterback struggle-fest:

Although Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner was tabbed as the new starter over incumbent Jalen Milroe, the Crimson Tide's issues at the position continued once again. 

For Buchner, a rhythym could never be established, completing five of his 14 passes for a mere 34 yards and zero touchdowns. However, it must be noted that Jermaine Burton dropped a potential long, well-thrown touchdown halfway through the second quarter.

Relieving Buchner late in the second quarter was Ty Simpson, who completed five of his nine passes for 73 yards while adding a one-yard rushing touchdown — leading the Crimson Tide on two scoring drives late to seal the deal versus the Bulls and holding off Buchner for the rest of the contest. 

"I thought he did ok," Saban said of Simpson. "He made a couple really good throws. We missed a couple big play throws that - you know, we've been making some of those, but I thought he played well. He managed the game well. We ran the ball quite a bit when he was in there. I don't think the sacks were necessarily his fault, so we'll evaluate it when we watch the film."

Milroe did not see time on the field, but was seen on the sidelines encouraging Simpson and Buchner throughout the game. 

Relentless fourth-down defense:

While it wasn't the prettiest performance, the Alabama defense got it done, halting South Florida on two of its six attempts on fourth down — including a stymied fake punt during a 3-3 game in the third quarter.

"You know, if you go for it on fourth down, they went for it six times and only converted two, that's like four turnovers," Saban said. "So we got two turnovers, and another turnover when we got a penalty. So, I think it was huge, especially field position."

While South Florida pressured the quarterback at a more consistent level, the Crimson Tide managed to nab 10 tackles for a loss compared to the Bulls' eight —halting Alex Golesh's team to 3.8 yards per carry. 

Malachi Moore's resurgence: 

After struggling last season, Alabama defensive back Malachi Moore continues to shine in 2023 — grabbing a fourth quarter interception to help close the game out. 

BIG-TIME interception by Malachi Moore 💪

Alabama is looking to close out USF late in the 4th quarter 👀https://t.co/EfOdCy05Nf

— College Football On ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsCFB) September 16, 2023

Moore, a senior, has dealt with injuries for much of his collegiate career — including an undisclosed injury sustained versus Middle Tennessee State. 

Now manning the STAR position, Moore looks to be playing at an All-American level in his final season. 

Tide-Bits:

• Announced attendance at Raymond James Stadium was 65,138.

• 91 degrees at first-kick. 

• Alabama was 3-for-3 in redzone scoring opportunities, converting a field goal and three touchdowns. 

• The Crimson Tide scored 10 points off of turnovers. 

• Punter James Burnip continues to be excellent, downing four of eight punts inside 20 yards with a long of 60. 

See Also:

No. 10 Alabama Pulls Away Late From USF For Uncomfortable 17-3 Win