Nick Saban looking for better offensive line play in second half vs. Michigan

The story of the first half in the Rose Bowl has been Michigan dominating the line of scrimmage. Specifically on the defensive end, not letting Alabama do anything. Jalen Milroe has been seeing Wolverines rushers nearly every time he has dropped back and taken quite a few shots.

If Alabama is going to wind up a winner, they will need to block better upfront and Nick Saban knows it. He wants to see better protection for Milroe, believing Alabama has the ability for some big plays if they can afford so.

Saban may be looking at offensive coordinator Tommy Rees a little bit too, hoping to mix up the play-calling to get Milroe out in open space a little bit more.

“Big thing is, we’ve got to protect the passer,” Saban said heading into the halftime locker room to ESPN’s Laura Rutledge. “I mean, we’ve been sacked five or six times and those are all drive-stoppers. Got to run the ball more effectively. Got to mix it up. Got to move the pocket a little better. Got to get them blocked up front because I think we’ve got some plays down the field if we can just protect.”

With all of the pressure, Milroe has only been able to get off eight throws, completing five of them for a total of 53 yards. His rushing numbers hammer home Saban’s point even more, having -2 yards on 11 attempts. Of course, sacks are considered rushing yards for quarterbacks.

The first time we saw Alabama move the ball well in the first half was in their final possession, with Milroe getting out quick passes and moving in the pocket. However, a third-down sack destroyed the chance of getting in for a touchdown, settling for a Will Reichard 50-yard field goal instead.

Saban is likely hoping that kind of drive is what Alabama can put together in the second half. As he told Milroe leading into the game, being a point guard and distributing the ball is how the Crimson Tide can win the game

“The same message I have with him all the time,” Saban said during his pregame interview. “Just got to distribute the ball. Do what he does, play within himself. And just be a point guard on a team that helps other people make plays. He’s had a great week. So, we’ve been encouraged by what he’s been able to do.”

Alabama will instantly get the opportunity to make adjustments, receiving the second-half kickoff. A huge drive is likely coming up for Milroe and the offensive line.