IconWell, here it is. The highly anticipated River City Showdown is less than 24 hours away and the atmosphere across both Alabama’s and Florida State’s fan bases is amazing. Alabama is looking to rebound off of a gutsy, yet heartbreaking loss to Georgia. Florida State is coming off a bye week. Needless to say, this game has huge implications for both teams. Here is how I see the game breaking down.

          

Alabama is now 3-1 and 2-1 in SEC play. With a one-play drive for Georgia in overtime, Alabama’s unrealistic undefeated season hopes were squandered. Now, the team has a chance to rebound with a victory of monumental proportions. Should Alabama win, they could gain the confidence and momentum needed to go into the game against Tennessee with a 6-1 record. First, they have to get through a tough Florida State team, coached by the legend Bobby Bowden.

 

Keys to Victory for Alabama:

1)    Establish a solid running attack. Florida State has a stingy defense, and although Geno Hayes may be suspended, the going will not be easy. Terry Grant may have to give up the bulk of his carries to a bigger back such as Glen Coffee.

2)    Reduce passing mistakes. John Parker Wilson played a sub-par game last week against Georgia and was criticized greatly by Alabama fans this week. If he can get things going, Alabama may run away with this one. If not, Florida State could take this one to the wire.

3)    Contain Antone Smith. The Seminole’s running back is fast, skilled, and will do everything his offensive line allows him to do. Alabama’s defense has been suspect at times this year on all aspects of defense. If they can hunker down and contain Antone Smith, Alabama stands a good chance.

 

Players to Watch:

 

1)    Terry Grant. The Alabama running back is getting national recognition for his accomplishments thus far as a Freshmen. If he can have another big game against Florida State, the talking heads on sports stations all over the nation may begin to mention his name more often.

2)    Antone Smith. Being an ACC track star, we know Smith has the speed it takes to compete with an SEC defense. Thusly, he can will run free if given the opportunity in Alabama’s secondary. Look for him to make the big plays.

3)    John Parker Wilson. If Wilson does not improve in the first few series, do not be surprised to see a backup Quarterback in the game for a few series or plays. Wilson has not performed up to par all season long and really needs to step up his game. If he will settle down, set his feet and step into his throws, Wilson could jump start the explosive Alabama passing game.

 

Prediction:

 

Alabama-17

Florida State- 16