Here are the three biggest X-Factors for the Alabama Crimson Tide to take down Mississippi State this weekend.
The Alabama Crimson Tide will be taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs this weekend, giving them another chance to earn a massive SEC win on the road.
Both teams come in 4-0 on the season, with each one being ranked. Alabama is ranked Ni. 7 in the country, while the Bulldogs sit at No. 16.
This game could be one of the more interesting ones of the weekend, and both sides will want to make a statement. Here are the three biggest X-Factors for Alabama to come away with a win against Mississippi State this week.
1. Kalen DeBoer Has to Trust His Instincts
While DeBoer has been on the hot seat throughout his tenure with the Crimson Tide, he has done a good job this season so far. Heading into a tough game like this, DeBoer can't overthink his decisions; instead, he should trust his instincts that have gotten him this far.
Sometimes in games of this magnitude, coaches can overthink things, and it tends to lead to issues for teams. But in this game, DeBoer needs to have confidence in his own abilities, trusting his guys to perform out on the field.
2. Keelon Russell Break Out Continues
Russell has looked great for Alabama this season, and his breakout has allowed the Crimson Tide to find real success. For the year, he has thrown for 1,129 yards with eight touchdowns and two interceptions.
On the ground, Russell has shown a strong ability as a dual-threat player too, rushing for 168 yards and three scores. If he can keep up the same level of performance that he's had all year, the Crimson Tide could come away with the big road win.
This will be another true test for the young quarterback, and he will need to deal with the intense crowd noise going on. But this is why he came to Alabama, and the Crimson Tide fully believe in his abilities to lead them to a victory.
3. Contain Kamario Taylor, Somehow
This game against Mississippi State will likely come down to the Crimson Tide finding a way to contain Taylor. Opposing teams have struggled with this all season so far, and Alabama will need to be ready to go.
Taylor has started the 2026 season on a high note, throwing for 1,192 yards with 14 touchdowns and two interceptions. The Mississippi State signal-caller has also rushed for 185 yards and one touchdown.
Alabama will have to find a way to slow him down, but this could be much easier said than done. Taylor has fully broken out this season, and the Crimson Tide just need to make him as uncomfortable as possible throughout the game.
