Keys to the Game

UPDATE: This post has been bumped up because the game will be starting soon, and these are my keys to the game!

For Hawaii on Defense:

1. Contain the run. If UH doesn't slow down the Bama running game, it'll be a looooong night.

2. Pressure the quarterback. This is John Parker Wilson's first college start. He may be poised and talented, but if UH can get to him, they might be able to force him into some mistakes due to his inexperience.

3. Cover the tight ends. This is Bama's secret weapon. They haven't utilized their tight ends the past few years, but all signs point to things changing this year, starting with this game.


For Alabama on Defense:

1. Disguise coverages. Confuse Colt and try to force him into some bad reads and decisions.

2. Contain the run. A lot of people aren't expecting Hawaii to run the ball, but with talented and healthy running backs this year, they will.

3. Don't give up the big play. With Jason Rivers and Ian Sample back for Hawaii, there are two deep threats on either side of the field Bama needs to cover. Of course, there two proven playmakers, Davone Bess and Ryan Grice-Mullins, in the slots who need to be worried about as well.


For Hawaii on Offense:

1. Establish the run. And by run, I also mean screens and shovel passes. Basically, give the ball to Nasty Nate or The Juggernaut. They're both very talented and are capable of breaking a few big runs. The Warriors will need to keep the D honest to open up the passing lanes.

2. Score in the red zone. UH has the ability to move the ball on anybody. But scoring in the red zone has been a problem at times. They can't let the crowd noise get to them when they get close to the end zone.

3. Don't let the crowd get to you. Just in general, 90,000 people screaming at you can unnerve any 19-year-old. They'll need to rely on each other and play as a cohesive unit, with everybody on the same page, both on the field and on the sidelines.


For Alabama on Offense:

1. Give the ball to Darby. This is a real football player, and UH defenses have had trouble with powerful tailbacks in the recent past.

2. Minimize pressure to JPW. It's important that JPW doesn't get hurried or sacked in the first couple series. Even though he played in relief last year, this is his first start as the #1 quarterback. He'll probably need some time to get settled and gain confidence. Handing the ball off a lot, and making short, quick passes or rolling out should keep the blitzing defenders away and allow him to get in rhythm.

3. Run time off the clock. Try to keep the ball away from the UH offense. With Bama's depth, long scoring drives will tire out the Hawaii defense faster.


So we'll see how it all plays out. I hope Hawaii is able to score some touchdowns early so Bama has to throw out their game-plan and play catch-up. Go Warriors!