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DALLAS, TEXAS – DECEMBER 26: Quarterback TJ FInley #7 of the Texas State Bobcats warms up before the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl against the Rice Owls at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
The Alabama Crimson Tide will kick off the 2024 season on Saturday, August 31st against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. The Crimson Tide open up as a 31-point favorite over the Hilltoppers. With an Alabama squad that features a lot of new players and coaches, it will be an interesting matchup to say the least.
Last season, Western Kentucky finished the season with an 8-5 record. The good news for the Crimson Tide’s defense is that they will not have to find a way to neutralize quarterback Austin Reed and wide receiver Malachi Corley. Both Reed and Corley departed for the NFl during the offseason. However, Tyson Helton and the Hilltoppers could present some challenges for Alabama in Week 1.
Roll Tide Wire lists five Western Kentucky players that Alabama fans should know heading into the Crimson Tide’s Week 1 matchup.
Easton Messer, Wide Receiver
Dec 18, 2023; Charlotte, NC, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers wide receiver Easton Messer (8) runs for yards after the catch against the Old Dominion Monarchs during the second half at Charlotte 49ers’ Jerry Richardson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
2023 Stats: 42 REC / 484 Yds / 4 TDs
It will take some time for Western Kentucky to find a replacement for former wideout Malachi Corley. With that said, someone will have to step up early on in his absence. That could be redshirt sophomore Easton Messer. The Kentucky native finished third on the team last season in receptions (42), receiving yards (484), and receiving touchdowns (4). He will be a key weapon for incoming transfer quarterback TJ Finley,…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/5-western-kentucky-players-know-193000109.html
Author : Roll Tide Wire
Publish date : 2024-08-27 19:30:00
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