The Alabama Crimson Tide is no longer the No. 1 team in college football after a shocking defeat to the unranked Vanderbilt Commodores on Saturday night. This marked Alabama’s first loss to Vanderbilt since 1984. After climbing to the top spot following a win over No. 5 Georgia in Week 5, the Tide now faces more challenges to remain in contention for both the SEC championship and the College Football Playoff. Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt highlighted a key issue that contributed to Alabama’s downfall against Vanderbilt, a team that only managed two wins last season. This problem had largely gone unnoticed until it emerged significantly in their matchup against the Commodores.
“Alabama’s defense is not improving,” Joel Klatt stated on “The Joel Klatt Show.”
The Crimson Tide have long been known for their strong defense throughout Nick Saban’s storied tenure at Alabama. In 2023, the program ranked 16th in total defense. However, under head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, Alabama has fallen to 50th in total defense through five games this season. After allowing just 26 points in their first three games, the Tide struggled defensively in Week 5 against Georgia. Despite giving up only seven points in the first half, they allowed 27 in the second, with 19 of those coming in the fourth quarter. Alabama’s offense, ranked sixth in scoring (44.6 points per game), managed to overcome those defensive lapses and defeat Georgia.
However, Vanderbilt’s performance, led by New Mexico State transfer quarterback Diego Pavia, exposed the Tide’s growing defensive vulnerabilities. The Commodores racked up 418 yards, converted 12 of 18 third downs, and dominated the time of possession, holding the ball for 42:08 compared to Alabama’s 17:52. Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt highlighted Alabama’s struggles, saying, “I didn’t expect it against Vanderbilt, but that’s exactly what’s happened this season for Alabama.” Klatt pointed out that Alabama’s defense has surrendered 67 points and 784 yards over the last six quarters of play, raising concerns.
Klatt anticipates that Alabama will face “several more shootouts” this season but believes their high-powered offense, led by quarterback Jalen Milroe and wide receiver Ryan Williams, will keep them competitive. Despite this offensive firepower, Klatt doesn’t see Alabama as a national championship contender due to their defensive issues. “At this point, that’s the truth about Alabama,” Klatt concluded.
Alabama (4-1) will host South Carolina (3-2) next week before heading to Knoxville to face No. 8 Tennessee in Week 8. The Tide’s remaining schedule includes games against No. 21 Missouri, No. 13 LSU, and No. 18 Oklahoma.
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