The Good, The Bad, The Ugly From Alabama’s 73-0 Win Over ULM

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: Alabama 73–0 Over ULM

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The Good

Alabama did what elite programs are supposed to do against an overmatched opponent—dominate from the opening kickoff until the final whistle. The Tide played with energy, precision, and intensity, something fans had been craving after a sluggish start to the season.

Ty Simpson was nearly flawless, going a perfect 17-for-17 through the air while commanding the offense with poise. Kalen DeBoer also had the opportunity to play all three quarterbacks, and together they combined for seven touchdown passes—matching a school record set all the way back in 1950 against Southern Miss. Performances like this help build confidence not just in the starter, but in the entire quarterback room.

Another major positive: the opportunity to build quality depth. Injuries earlier in the season have forced younger players onto the field, and while that hasn’t fully paid off yet, it could prove valuable as the season progresses. Against ULM, those younger players got extended reps in a real game environment, giving them confidence and experience. When veteran players return from injury, Alabama will have a deeper pool of contributors ready to step in. That kind of depth could be a difference-maker if the Tide finds itself in a position to make a late-season run.

And the win was historic. The 73–0 margin was the largest shutout victory in program history, surpassing the previous best of 66–0 against Cal on September 15, 1973. Records don’t fall often at Alabama, given the program’s rich tradition, but Saturday added another entry into the Crimson Tide’s storied history.

The energy we saw Saturday didn’t just show up on game day — it started during the week in the preparation phase. The practices had a different edge, and that mindset carried onto the field. Now the challenge is simple: can they sustain it? Wisconsin should be another tune-up, but the real measuring stick comes when SEC play opens in Athens against Georgia. That’s where we’ll find out if this spark can turn into something bigger.

The Bad

As lopsided as the score was, it’s important to keep perspective. ULM simply isn’t a measuring stick for Alabama football. The Warhawks lacked the talent and depth to challenge the Tide, which means many of the offensive fireworks and defensive dominance can’t be fully evaluated.

Penalties and a couple of missed assignments also crept in—things that won’t hurt you against ULM but will against Georgia in a few weeks.

The Ugly

Here’s the part I didn’t like this week — and it wasn’t on the field. It was the reaction from some of the fan base after the Florida State loss. Look, Alabama fans are passionate. That’s what makes this place special. But the meltdown last week? It was ugly. Way too early. I understand the frustration — nobody likes losing — but this is only the second season with this coaching staff. Declaring the sky is falling after one game just isn’t the Alabama standard.

This team came out Saturday and played with fire. They answered the bell. Now it’s time for the fans to do their part: take a deep breath, show some patience, and get behind this team. Because if Alabama is going to make noise in November, it’s going to take all of us.