Alabama survived a major scare Saturday night.
The Crimson Tide erased a 15-point deficit and held on to defeat Florida State 50-36 in a wild Week 3 matchup at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The win moved Alabama to 3-0 while Florida State fell to 1-2.
For a while, it looked like Florida State was going to pull off another upset against Alabama.
The Seminoles jumped out to a 21-6 lead, with Ashton Daniels and the Florida State offense finding success against an Alabama defense that had been dominant through the first two games. Daniels connected with Duce Robinson for a touchdown before scoring another on the ground, while Ousmane Kromah added a rushing touchdown.
Then the Tide finally woke up.
Keelon Russell led Alabama on a huge comeback, throwing touchdown passes to Cederian Morgan, Ryan Coleman-Williams and Keelon Edwards as the Crimson Tide ripped off points and completely changed the momentum. Alabama eventually took control and entered the second half with the lead.
Russell was outstanding throughout the comeback, finishing with 376 total yards and four touchdowns. Alabama’s rushing attack also became a major factor, as the Crimson Tide finished with 295 rushing yards and 615 total yards.
Florida State refused to go away quietly.
The Seminoles briefly regained the lead in the second half on a 65-yard touchdown from Sam Singleton Jr., but Alabama answered once again. The Crimson Tide eventually created enough separation to close out the game.
Florida State had chances late, but a failed fourth-down attempt and another interception from Daniels helped Alabama slam the door.
The victory was especially important for Alabama after Florida State stunned the Crimson Tide 31-17 last season.
This time, Alabama found itself in trouble early but the Tide responded when it mattered most.
Florida State had Alabama on the ropes.
The Crimson Tide simply refused to stay down.
