Arkansas moved the ball pretty much all game long. That wasn't just against the backups. I'd imagine it's a long week for the defense in practice. I believe Arkansas also fumbled at the 1 on another drive. As for Mullen, I'd argue that he inherited more than anyone other than Huepel at UCF and Jimbo at A&M.
Um.... I heard a read a lot of opinions this summer that Jimbo had his work cut out for him, was left with SOME talent, but the roster still needed some good turnover. The QB who is starting for us wasn't given any chance after how he played last year, etc... Remember, we didn't even have a tight end on the roster at close of last season. (currently leads teams in TDs) I wouldn't put A&M at the top of the "inherited" talent list. We have some players, but we still need restock, and upgrades at a lot of postitions.
Looking at Bama stats. They only threw the ball 18 times but for 393 yds and 28 yds per completions...holy freakn' cow. They ran the ball 41 times for 6yd/carry. I loved this response to the ESPN guy on the running game. Asked by ESPN's Tom Luginbill if he would focus on improving the run game at halftime of Saturday's game over Arkansas, Saban grunted back with a quick response. “They play a lot of sink (on defense) and a lot of stuff where we can throw the ball, so if they’re going to play it, we’re going to throw it,†Saban said. “It don’t matter. I don’t care how we score. Do you get points for running more than passing? Aight. It don’t matter to me.â€
Florida did manage to win back to back SEC East titles before the wheels came off Mac's bus last season. There is some leftover talent on the team.... plus adding Grimes and Jefferson at WR and getting Scarlett back at RB after suspension give Mullen a lot more to work with. Todd Grantham must be one hell of a DC because he has his guys playing at an elite level right now. They are fun to watch.... and all this after they started so damn slow beginning the season and looking too similar to last year. But losing to Kentucky proved not to be so unforgiveable and that loss really got this team headed in the right direction. I'm just hoping they continue to buy what Mullen is selling.
Terry, Alabama's offense is clicking right and has been very efficient both running and passing. Our qb is able to execute both very well. Hurts has also become much better at executing the offense. Alabama's problem is our linebackers. Intermediate pass routes especially over the middle aren't being covered effectively. Like I said above,Arkansas moved the ball and if it weren't for turnovers, this game would have been closer for a longer period of time. We lost a lot of talent last year,both on the field and on the coaching staff. Saban needs to nip this defense problem in the bud. :x