I think pretty well. Our D line should give their OL all they can handle. Derwin James has probably been living rent free inside of Jalen Hurts' head all summer. And I like that our defense faces a pro-style offense like Alabama pretty much every week.
On the offensive side, Francois is no Watson, but has proven he will step up in the pocket to make big throws and I can see him doing that against Alabama. For all of Alabama's dominance, they have proven to be vulnerable against the pass and DF was able to beat a few teams with his arm last season.
As for coaching, I think it's close to even considering Jimbo knows Saban like a book, but Saban probably has the edge given his history. There's also the Dameuyne Craig factor, so he will know the players and what Saban is likely to do considering he coached against him the last 3 years.
All in all, I think the Noles have more than a fighting chance. I say 28-21 good guys in what will be Jimbo Fisher's most high-profile nonconference regular season win.
On the offensive side, Francois is no Watson, but has proven he will step up in the pocket to make big throws and I can see him doing that against Alabama. For all of Alabama's dominance, they have proven to be vulnerable against the pass and DF was able to beat a few teams with his arm last season.
As for coaching, I think it's close to even considering Jimbo knows Saban like a book, but Saban probably has the edge given his history. There's also the Dameuyne Craig factor, so he will know the players and what Saban is likely to do considering he coached against him the last 3 years.
All in all, I think the Noles have more than a fighting chance. I say 28-21 good guys in what will be Jimbo Fisher's most high-profile nonconference regular season win.
