Alabama-Western Carolina: 3 Quick Thoughts

Alabama and Western Carolina was not an exciting matchup this weekend, but the real fireworks went off hours after the Alabama game had concluded.  With the win and the losses of Kansas State and Oregon, Alabama is back in the driver’s seat in the BCS, controlling their own destiny.  However looking back at Alabama and Western Carolina here are three quick thoughts.

1. Lets see a little bit more of Blake Sims
By no means did he cause a quarterback controversy, but he did show that he is one of the most explosive players on the field.  The series he ran with the first team offense running the read option with Eddie Lacy was downright dangerous; I would like to see Alabama utilize that more, especially if the offense needs a spark.

2. Offense proved a point.
When Cody Mandell doesn’t have to step on the field until the fourth quarter, the offense must have been doing something right. McCarron was effective on the 6 passes he threw and the Tide made sure to establish dominance at the line of scrimmage to the tune of 300 yards and 5 rushing touchdowns.

3. Alabama may be getting some help in the secondary
Taking into account the competition, guys like Geno Smith, Landon Collins and Bradley Sylve looked solid in coverage.  That will be huge for Alabama down the stretch if these young defensive backs can step up, especially with John Fulton’s health in question as the season winds down.