Sunday Hangover: Tennessee

This game shouldn't have been this close. If Ingram doesn't get the ball ripped out late in the fourth quarter, then there's no probably no touchdown by the Vols and no onside kick foolishness.

But Alabama almost lost this game because they didn't put away Tennessee when they had multiple chances. The Tennessee defense is good, but the Tide offense was lethargic. With LSU playing much better offensively and Mississppi State playing surprisingly well, the Tide offense needs to get it together soon, so the off week comes at the right time. I hope McElroy can return to throwing the ball like he was earlier this season, and maybe receivers can catch some of those contested passes and footballs that seem to be bouncing off their hands. While TE Peek not playing yesterday kept Alabama's leading receiver on the bench, receivers were open yesterday, and McElroy didn't hit them. And then some receivers ran sloppy routes.

But two guys came through in special teams. Terrence "Mt." Cody is getting all the press coverage for the two blocks in the game. However, Leigh Tiffin hit field goals from 22, 38, 49, and 50 yards.

The Crimson Tide, as a whole, looked like a tired team yesterday. With LSU next at home, we'll need the time to get the offense back into shape.

An ugly win is a win. But the Tide offense should play better than they have the past three games. If the offense doesn't get more dynamic and effective and if the D can't play better on third downs, we don't win the West.