Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson described his team’s deep passing game as “brutal” after the Crimson Tide’s 20-9 win over LSU on Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
The highlight came with just 51 seconds before halftime. Simpson connected with Lotzeir Brooks on a 47-yard pass, setting up a 13-yard touchdown to Ryan Williams with 22 seconds left in the first half. The score proved crucial in a game where Alabama’s offense was inconsistent.
Despite the victory, Simpson went just 2-for-6 on passes over 20 yards. “Kind of brutal to be honest with you,” he said. “There were a couple that were underthrown. There were a couple that were overthrown. Just kind of didn’t find a great rhythm. Being honest, that’s something we need to work on in practice.”
Simpson’s struggles continued in the third and fourth quarters. He missed deep connections with Brooks, Germie Bernard, Isaiah Horton, and Ryan Williams on multiple attempts.
Coach Kalen DeBoer acknowledged the inconsistency but stressed Alabama has the talent to succeed. “As far as overall throwing the ball down the field, we haven’t been as consistent as I think we can be,” DeBoer said. “We have the players to do it. There’s just a fine line. A ball just off the fingertips. Timing not quite there. We’ve got to continue to work at that. We’ve shown we can do it.”
The Crimson Tide didn’t fully pull away until late in the fourth quarter. LSU closed to a one-possession game with a field goal at 10:28 remaining, trailing 17-9.
Despite deep passing issues, Simpson completed 21 of 35 passes for 277 yards and a touchdown with no interceptions. Alabama’s win highlights the team’s ability to overcome inconsistencies, though Simpson admits more work is needed to capitalize on big-play opportunities.
“This is something we definitely need to work on,” Simpson said, reflecting on the game’s missed chances.
