Now we get to find out a lot more about Alabama.
The Crimson Tide destroyed East Carolina 48-10 in Week 1, rushing for 227 yards and five touchdowns while holding ECU to just two rushing yards.
But going to Kentucky for an SEC road game is completely different.
And I think this one gets uncomfortable.
Can Keelon Russell Handle the Road?
This is the biggest question for Alabama.
Keelon Russell showed plenty of potential in his first start, throwing for 256 yards while adding 86 yards on the ground. Now he makes his first true road start in what should be a completely different environment.
I expect Russell to make some mistakes.
Kentucky needs to create pressure, force a turnover or two and make Alabama’s young offense earn everything it gets.
Kentucky Can Actually Score
Kentucky’s offense already looks considerably different under Will Stein.
Kenny Minchey threw for 301 yards and four touchdowns in the Wildcats’ 45-13 Week 1 victory.
Obviously Alabama’s defense is a massive step up.
But I think Kentucky finds some success, especially if it can turn red-zone opportunities into touchdowns instead of settling for field goals.
That’s how the Wildcats keep this close.
Alabama’s Talent Eventually Wins Out
Alabama is around a 10-point favorite, but I’m taking Kentucky to cover.
I think Kroger Field causes some early problems, Russell makes a few young-quarterback mistakes and Kentucky stays within striking distance into the fourth quarter.
Eventually, though, Alabama has too much.
The Tide’s running game should become more effective as the game goes on, and Russell will make enough plays with both his arm and legs to escape Lexington.
Kentucky makes Alabama work for it.
But the Tide survive their first real test.
