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Alabama football: 3 stars of the Crimson Tide’s win over Mercer

Alabama football quarterback Bryce Young and running back Brian Robinson Jr. (Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports)
Alabama football quarterback Bryce Young and running back Brian Robinson Jr. (Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports)

Alabama football got the performances they needed out of young stars to get a 48-14 victory over the Mercer Bears. Who stood out?

They say it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. Alabama didn’t bend the Mercer Bears to their will immediately but ultimately they outclassed their opponents for a 48-14 win.

The Crimson Tide got through Week 2 with a comfortable outing built on mature performances from young players.

3 stars of Alabama football’s win over Mercer

Bryce Young, QB

Young continues to look cool as a cucumber running the Crimson Tide offense. He delivered three touchdowns while completing 19-of-27 passes for 227 yards. His passer rating was 177.7. Mercer was never going to be the big challenge for Young. He’s did exactly what Alabama needs him to do against opponents who are outmatched. Despite a slow start, he righted the ship and made sure his team was never truly in danger.

Brian Robinson Jr., RB

Robinson Jr. led the Tide in rushing with 10 carries for 70 yards and a touchdown. He averaged seven yards per carry with a long of only 14. That’s consistent production from the running back spot. He also added a catch for 10 yards. The performance should have Alabama fans feeling good about their rushing attack going forward.

JoJo Earle, WR

Seven passes were sent Earle’s way and he caught all seven of them. He finished with 85 yards receiving. That wasn’t the only area he contributed either. The freshman had two big punt returns to show off his flashy ability. Saban wanted to get players like Earle experience against Mercer. He took his opportunity in both hands and proved he’ll have an even bigger role to play in the future.

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