3 Biggest X-Factors For Alabama to Take Down Georgia

The Alabama Crimson Tide will be taking on the Georgia Bulldogs this weekend, pitting two of the top teams in the nation against one another.

Alabama comes into the game as the No. 6 team in the country, while Georgia is ranked No. 2. This gives each side a chance to earn a massive statement win partway into the season, while knocking their SEC rival down a peg.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for Alabama to take down Georgia this week:

1. Keep the Running Game Going

Alabama has done a good job at getting the running game going this season, and against Georgia, they will need more of the same. The Bulldogs have a tough interior defensive line which could cause some issues, but the Crimson Tide will need to be more physical during this game.

Running back EJ Crowell has done well this season as a freshman for Alabama, rushing for 204 yards with three touchdowns. Crowell has earned 7.8 yards per carry, showing that he can make a massive impact on the games.

Trae'shawn Brown has done a good job as well, rushing for 211 yards and five touchdowns on the season. The two running back system has worked for Alabama, and this is going to have to continue this week against Georgia.

2. Use Speed to Burn Georgia's Secondary

Georgia's secondary has seen some lapses this season, and Alabama can take advantage of their speed. Players like Ryan Coleman-Williams can open the field up, making life very tough for the Bulldogs' defenders.

Coleman-Williams has been good at getting yards after the catch, and this will  e crucial against Georgia. If they can break some tackles to get into open space, it could be a long game for the Bulldogs defense.

3. Protecting Keelon Russell

The play from Russell this season has been electric, with the starting quarterback entering his name into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Russell has thrown for 1414 yards with 11 touchdowns and two interceptions, while rushing for 184 yards and four touchdowns.

If the Crimson Tide can keep him upright, Russell will have a chance to showcase what he can do against a top defense. The play from the offensive line will be crucial here, and they have to give Russell time to throw the ball or extend plays with his legs.

Alabama has been able to do well this season when Russell can be the deciding factor in how a play will turn out. This may be the most important facet of the game against Georgia this weekend.