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Here’s what Alabama DC Pete Golding said about Ohio State prior to the National Championship Game
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When it comes to Monday’s National Championship Game, both team’s defensive units have major challenges on their hands.
For Alabama and its defensive coordinator, Pete Golding, that means trying to slow down a potent Ohio State attack led by quarterback Justin Fields. On the other side, the Buckeyes have to slow down the Crimson Tide and Heisman winner Devonta Smith.
It’s been six days since Golding and his staff learned they would have to try and slow Ohio State. Golding spoke with the media on Thursday. He has noticed plenty of strong play in the Buckeye offense, especially with running back Trey Sermon. But he’s also seen other key players such as the Ohio State tight ends and Fields.
Pete Golding on Ohio State RB Trey Sermon:
“We are going to get his best. He’s playing at a high level. He runs the ball effectively. He’s explosive.”#RollTide #NationalChampionship
— Lukas Weese (@Weesesports) January 7, 2021
Alabama defensive coordinator Pete Golding says a lot of Ohio State's chunk plays come in the run game when the defense misses a fit.
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) January 7, 2021
Golding’s crew is coming off a solid performance against Notre Dame where Alabama allowed the Irish to score just 17 points. But as Golding points out, that doesn’t tell the whole story.
Pete Golding: "I don't think we ever come out of a game looking up how many points were given up or how many we kept them to. I think there were several games where we kept them low in scoring, but we still didn't execute. They just didn't take advantage of it."
— Charlie Potter (@Charlie_Potter) January 7, 2021
Pete Golding on what his defense could do better against Ohio State:
“Fundamental execution. The biggest thing is all 11 guys on the same page and making them play. You got to contest every play.”#RollTide #NationalChampionship
— Lukas Weese (@Weesesports) January 7, 2021
Obviously, slowing Fields is something that Alabama is going to have to do in order to take home the national championship.
Alabama DC Pete Golding on Justin Fields: "I think he does a good job of getting them in & out of plays…He has come a long way of understanding coverage/fronts and how they come together. He has a really strong arm. His accuracy has improved. He has become a complete QB."
— Al Butler (@ALaboutSports) January 7, 2021
As many have already predicted, this game definitely looks like it could become an offensive shootout. That comes looking at these teams’ offensive output during the season. It may come down to which defense can get off the field via turnover or forced punt.