🏈 Sacks don't tell the whole story as Bama leads the SEC in QB pressures, hurries, knockdowns...and yo

[TerryP]

There hasn't been much of a letdown in production from Alabama's defense compared to seasons past. The top-ranked Crimson Tide is still among the top-10 nationally in rushing yards allowed per game, passing yards allowed per game, third down conversions, first downs allowed and total defense. It's given up the fewest touchdowns (12) and the fewest points per game (10.2) in all of college football.

.....


But whatever the defense's minor flaws this season, there is one area that's gone under the radar where Alabama has actually improved from years past: rushing the passer. Through 11 games, the Tide has pressured the quarterback 26.1 percent of the time, compared to 22.5 percent in 2012 and 23.8 percent in 2011. UA leads the SEC in pressure percentage, which ESPN Stats and Info calculates as hurries plus knockdowns, divided by total dropbacks.

.....


So in terms of a stat Saban would care more about -- hurries plus knockdowns, but excluding sacks -- hybrid linebacker/defensive end Xzavier Dickson holds the lead with 13, trailed by Hubbard (12), Robinson (12), Stinson (9) and Devall (6), according to ESPN Stats and Info.

[h=1]Alabama dialing up the pressure on defense[/h]

 

[PhillyGirl]

Wow. Unexpected for sure. Good for Dickson! And the rest of the crew!

 

[jdpas29]

Surprised me too. I guess ill quit beachin about the lack of sacks and qb pressure now. Thx

 

[TerryP]

Surprised me too. I guess ill quit beachin about the lack of sacks and qb pressure now. Thx

I'll admit I thought about you when I posted this... :chat2_nana:

 

[JoshB]

A'Shawn has lived in opposing teams backfields this year. Kid is gonna be a damn beast.