But traveling to Lexington for an SEC road game against Kentucky is a completely different challenge, especially with a young quarterback making his first road start. Alabama is currently favored by around 10 points.
Here are my three hot takes.
1. Keelon Russell Makes Some Mistakes
I’m extremely high on Keelon Russell, but this feels like the game where we see some growing pains.
Russell accounted for more than 300 total yards against East Carolina, but now he’s making his first true road start and first SEC start in what should be a loud Kroger Field.
I expect a turnover or two and several mistakes that remind everyone he’s still a young quarterback.
Hot take: Russell turns the ball over multiple times.
2. Kentucky Scores Touchdowns in the Red Zone
Kentucky isn’t beating Alabama by settling for field goals.
The good news is that the Wildcats’ new offense looked explosive in Week 1. Kenny Minchey threw for 301 yards and four touchdowns, while Kentucky scored 45 points.
When Kentucky gets opportunities inside the 20, I think Will Stein gets aggressive.
Hot take: Kentucky scores touchdowns on at least three red-zone trips.
3. Kentucky Covers
This is my biggest take.
I still think Alabama wins, but double digits feels like too many points on the road against a Kentucky team that suddenly looks much more dangerous offensively.
Russell makes a few mistakes, Kentucky converts those opportunities into touchdowns and the Wildcats keep this interesting into the fourth quarter.
Alabama wins. Kentucky covers.
Don’t be surprised if this ends up being one of the most uncomfortable games Alabama plays all season.
