What happened last time
In last years’ contest, Texas A&M handed Alabama their first and last loss of the season in a 29-24 outcome. Texas A&M won the turnover battle as well as the time of possession battle. McCarron tossed two interceptions and failed to capitalize on their opportunities.
What’s changed
Texas A&M sent five players to the NFL draft this April, including first round pick OT Luke Joeckel, RB Christine Michael, and DE Damontre Moore. Texas A&M retains Heisman trophy winner QB Johnny Manziel.
University of Alabama sent a whopping nine players to the NFL draft, including three first round selections, offensive linemen Eric Fisher and Chance Warmack, and defensive back Dee Milliner. Another notable loss is running back Eddie Lacy now in Green Bay.
What I think will happen
I expect this to be a close, exciting contest just like the last. Johnny Manziel has only gotten better with time, and McCarron showed a very humble outing against Virginia Tech completing less than half of his passes and throwing for only 110 yards. Alabama clearly leaned heavily on their running game and did not ask McCarron to stretch too much. Manziel is again leading a high scoring offense putting up 50 points or more in their first two contests. For me the tipping point is Texas A&M’s homefield advantage. This combined with the fact that both teams field competent defenses and AJ McCarron, while a smart passer, is no Johnny Manziel. I predict Alabama will again struggle to contain Manziel and the Aggie offense. (I now make my prediction which can later be used as evidence to show that I am the world’s stupidest football fan after Alabama wins in a blowout 62-0.)
Final prediction: Texas A&M over Alabama 31-27.
Gridiron Seasonal 