In a highly anticipated SEC West showdown, No. 11 Alabama is set to clash with Texas A&M this Saturday in a game that will be televised on CBS. Both teams are vying for the top spot in the SEC West and have their sights set on the College Football Playoff.
Alabama has rebounded well after suffering a loss to Texas in early September. They have since won two consecutive games against Ole Miss and Mississippi State, showcasing improved defense and the reinstated Jalen Milroe at quarterback. On the other hand, Texas A&M is also on a three-game winning streak following a disappointing loss to Miami in Week 2. They have secured double-digit victories against Louisiana-Monroe, Auburn, and Arkansas. In their last game, the Aggies held Arkansas to just 174 total yards and 10 first downs.
When Alabama head coach Nick Saban and Texas A&M head coach Jimbo Fisher face off, sparks usually fly. The two have a history of exchanging verbal jabs, and their previous two meetings were decided by a combined seven points. It wouldn’t be surprising if this upcoming game follows suit.
For fans wanting to catch the action, the game is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted on CBS. It can also be live-streamed on CBSSports.com or through the CBS Sports App.
This game marks the first meeting between the two teams at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field since 2021 when the Aggies pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the No. 1 Crimson Tide with a last-second field goal. It was Alabama’s first loss against an unranked opponent since 2007 and established Fisher as the first former Saban assistant to defeat him.
Both teams have quarterbacks looking to prove themselves in this matchup. Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, who regained the starting job after briefly losing it in September, has guided the Crimson Tide to victories in his last two outings with impressive passing and rushing performances. If he can lead Alabama to a road win against the Aggies, it will solidify his leadership. Meanwhile, Texas A&M’s Max Johnson has been steady since taking over as the starter in their game against Auburn. A win against Alabama would establish him as a capable leader for the Aggies in their pursuit of the SEC West title.
Special teams will also play a crucial role in this matchup. Alabama’s Will Reichard has a perfect field goal record this season, making all 11 of his attempts so far. The Crimson Tide’s punter, James Burnip, ranks fourth nationally in average yards per punt. Texas A&M counters with Ainias Smith, who returned a punt for a touchdown in their victory over Arkansas.
Looking ahead to the game, experts predict a low-scoring affair. Last season, these teams combined for just 44 points in their matchup, and both offenses are still finding their rhythm. Alabama’s offense is undergoing adjustments with Milroe at the helm, and Texas A&M’s defense has been solid in recent weeks. With two of the Aggies’ touchdowns in their last game coming from defensive plays, the under bet seems like a wise choice.
As kickoff approaches, fans can expect an intense battle between two talented teams hungry for victory. The outcome of this matchup could have a significant impact on the SEC West standings and the College Football Playoff race.
