Alabama Football: Even With the Loss, Bryce Young Proved Just How Crucial He Is

Last week, I talked about how differently Alabama Football’s offense would look against Tennessee if Bryce Young returned at quarterback. Which, I know, it’s an obvious statement.

Saturday proved however, how right I was.

In the 52-49 defeat, Young was far from the reason Alabama left Knoxville with their first loss of the season.

Bryce Young proved how crucial he is for Alabama Football against Tennessee

Playing for the first time since the Arkansas game, Young looked like his normal, Heisman Trophy winning self, throwing for 455 yards and 2 touchdowns. Just to give some context, the Tide’s passing game totaled just 111 yards the week prior against Texas A&M.

The Alabama offense didn’t have to rely on Jahmyr Gibbs running the ball as opposed to the A&M game. With Young back at quarterback, the Tide were able to have a more balanced attack, which allowed the offense to get back on track.

No disrespect to Jalen Milroe, who I believe will be great in the future, but watching Young on Saturday, it was like watching a totally different Alabama offense. Young’s ability to keep plays alive, his presence in the pocket and keeping his eyes downfield, resulted in several drives being prolonged.

Young’s effectiveness also helped the receivers and tight ends, and opened up more opportunities to make plays.

Alabama is still searching for their answer in terms of a WR1, but guys answered the call on Saturday.

https://twitter.com/4MR_Monty/status/1582200615463424000

Tight end Cameron Latu had his best game of the season, with 6 catches, going for 90 yards and 1 touchdown. Latu very well could end up being a top option in the passing game moving forward in 2022.

Ja’Corey Brooks also stepped up on Saturday, hauling in 6 catches, for 79 yards and a touchdown himself.

https://twitter.com/Cover3Dynasty/status/1581390062238908419

Still, even with Young passing for 455 yards, he could’ve thrown for more. If you watch the film, the receivers are still struggling when it comes to creating separation and dropped balls. Though, I’ll breakdown Bama’s WR’s in another article.

The point is, Alabama Football has to feel very fortunate that Young is back at quarterback. With Bryce back there, the Tide can rebound from the Tennessee loss and still make it to Atlanta for the SEC Championship, and contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff.