Paul Finebaum reacts to Alabama's necessary, significant win over Ole Miss

Alabama’s triumph over Ole Miss on Saturday was a must-have win. During an appearance on “McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning,” Paul Finebaum broke down the victory’s impact on the Crimson Tide.

“It was a necessary and significant win for for Alabama,” Finebaum said. “They finally cleaned up a couple of things that had been gnawing at them, although they also made some of the same mistakes.

“The defense was was really incredibly impressive, especially in the second half. Milroe survived some very anxious moments. The line seemed to protect him a little bit more. Decision making was better and, overall, I thought it was a game-changer in terms of changing the narrative.”

Back on the right track

Although Alabama only moved up one spot in the AP Top 25 Poll, the win undeniably changed the outlook of the season. After starting off 2-1, with a loss to Texas, Alabama couldn’t afford another loss. On Saturday, the Crimson Tide reminded everyone why they are a perennial program.

In the win, Alabama’s defense held Ole Miss to just 301 total yards. Further, the Rebels converted just three of their 14 third-down attempts. Alabama looked the part on offense, as well.

The Crimson Tide rattled off 356 yards while producing an effective air game. With Jalen Milroe behind center, Alabama connected on 17 of 21 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown. The redshirt sophomore was redeemed on Saturday.

Finebaum believes the Week 4 win could lead to a domino effect for the Crimson Tide.

“We all know how fatal a loss would have been,” Finebaum said. “It’s hard to calculate the upside on this club, although I think it’s probably significantly higher than a week ago only because they dodged this incredibly bad moment.”

Alabama repeats history

In many ways, the win is reminiscent of last season. After Alabama suffered a loss to LSU in November, the team bounced back with a convincing win against Ole Miss and finished the year on a three-game win streak. Finebaum believes Nick Saban can once again use Lane Kiffin and Co. as a springboard.

“Anytime [Saban] gets down, he just needs to look on the schedule and see where Lane Kiffin will show,” Finebaum said. “Beating Kiffin got him toward the finish line of the season in good shape and the same thing happened this time around. Coach Saban needs to call the commissioner and always schedule Ole Miss in a rough spot on the schedule.”

Alabama will look to use its momentum this weekend on the road. On Saturday, the Crimson Tide will invade Starkville as they square off against Mississippi State at 9 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.