Nick Saban explains what makes Will Rogers difficult to defend

The play of Will Rogers has enhanced the effectiveness of the Mississippi State air raid. He has posted incredible numbers over the last two seasons with the Bulldogs. After dealing with a high-powered offense last weekend in Knoxville, Nick Saban realizes what kind of test Alabama will be facing with Rogers and the Bulldogs coming to Tuscaloosa.

Saban spoke highly of Rogers during his press conference on Wednesday. He says Rogers’ understanding of their offensive scheme makes them that much more difficult to defend against.

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“Will Rogers had a great year last year. He’s having an outstanding year this year,” said Saban. “They’ve got a lot of really difficult passing concepts to try to defend. They’ve got really good players, they understand what they’re doing. He understands the offense as well as probably a coach, goes out there, and executes it.”

Rogers really opened it up last season with 4,739 yards and 36 touchdowns on a 73.9% completion rate. He has carried that success over to this season with 2,313 yards already for 23 more touchdowns.

As QB1 of a Top-35 offense in the nation, Saban is as aware as everyone else is of how effective is at his position. Rogers’ stats, including a 71.1% completion percentage, is the driving force behind a successful, 5-2 Mississippi State team.

“He’s very accurate with the ball, he makes quick decisions and judgments,” Saban said. “This is a very challenging offensive team and I think it probably is very quarterback oriented. Him playing well, which he has done all year long, certainly enhances their opportunity to be successful.”

Hendon Hooker and Tennessee’s offense gave the Tide enough trouble to knock them off last weekend. If they want to get back in the win column, Saban’s defense will have to exercise some of their demons during another test for them this weekend against Rogers, Mike Leach, and the rest of the Bulldog offense.