usf football No. 10 Alabama Pulls Away Late From USF For Uncomfortable 17-3 Win

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No. 10 Alabama struggled offensively but pulled away late to defeat USF 17-3 on Saturday in Tampa, Florida. The Crimson Tide started Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner at quarterback for the first time this season, but he struggled, completing just 5 of 14 passes for 34 yards. He was pulled in favor of redshirt freshman Ty Simpson just before halftime.

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Simpson didn't fare much better, completing 11 of 21 passes for 142 yards. But he led Alabama on two scoring drives in the second half to help the Crimson Tide secure the victory.

Alabama's defense was dominant, holding USF to just 218 total yards. The Crimson Tide recorded six sacks and forced three turnovers.

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Alabama got on the board first in the third quarter when Simpson connected with tight end CJ Dippre on a 45-yard pass. The Crimson Tide added another touchdown in the fourth quarter when running back Jahmyr Gibbs ran for a 1-yard score.

USF's only points came on a 23-yard field goal by Spencer Shrader in the first quarter.

Alabama's win was its third straight. The Crimson Tide will now turn their attention to their SEC opener next week against No. 17 Ole Miss.

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Despite the victory, there are some concerns for Alabama heading into SEC play. The Crimson Tide's offense has struggled in all three of its games so far this season. They have averaged just 20.7 points per game, which is ranked 101st in the FBS.

The quarterback position is a particular concern. Buchner and Simpson have both struggled to find a rhythm. Alabama coach Nick Saban has not yet said who will start at quarterback next week against Ole Miss.

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Despite its offensive struggles, Alabama is still a dangerous team. The Crimson Tide have one of the best defenses in the country, and they have a lot of experience on both sides of the ball.

If Alabama can figure out its offensive issues, they will be a contender for the SEC title and the College Football Playoff. But until then, they will need to rely on their defense to keep them in games.

Analysis

Alabama's win over USF was an ugly one, but it was a win nonetheless. The Crimson Tide's offense struggled mightily, but the defense was able to pick up the slack.

The quarterback position is a major concern for Alabama. Buchner and Simpson have both struggled to play consistently well. Saban will need to make a decision about who to start at quarterback before next week's game against Ole Miss.

Despite its offensive struggles, Alabama is still a dangerous team. The Crimson Tide have one of the best defenses in the country, and they have a lot of experience on both sides of the ball. If Alabama can figure out its offensive issues, they will be a contender for the SEC title and the College Football Playoff.

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