Yes, the score was 63-14. However, that is the #1 team in the country who probably has 17-20 draft picks starting. Were the Eagles outmatched? Yes. Still, there are some really good signs and things to look at.
1. Ty Keyes benefited from more practice time. During Troy game week, he only got about 3/4 of one real practice in. Tuesday was cut short and Wednesday of that week was a walkthrough indoors. He still gets happy feet on the pocket (true he was getting rushed) but sometimes he needs to step-up rather than leave the pocket. He has got to learn touch on the short crossing routs, he is firing fastballs there and the WR needs time to react. Still, really good to see him play better. 11-24 for 131 yards 2 TD 1 INT.
2. It was nice to see the TE get involved. Let's hope we see more of that going forward.
3. Pittman has potential to be very successful at Southern Miss. He reminds me of a Percy Harvin type with his skill set.
4. Defense, it is what it is. Alabama was better at every position on the field. They played hard all night and that is all you can ask. They will be fine in C-USA competition.
5. Special Teams has to improve. Lanes were opening up and that can't happen even when playing Bama.
6. DB's may have been beat deep. but they were coming up and delivering some hits at times. Malik Shorts is playing at an extremely high level.
7. The OL was much better. They were hanging in there with a really, really good DL. Foxworth was much better after not playing against Troy. Wright stepped at C and did pretty well considering.
There was some good, and yes still bad, but there was progress. Rice next week is another chance to get better and maybe pick up a win? We shall see! I feel much better after this game than after the Troy game.
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