章節 69: Stormy Onslaught
"Touchdown!" "Number 23, rushing touchdown!"
"The Crimson Tide's oft-criticized offense seized the opportunity provided by their defense's interception and converted it into a touchdown, further extending their lead. The dominance and fluidity they've shown since the start of the game continues, as they secure their second rushing touchdown of the season opener."
"Wow." "Can you believe it? I mean, wow!"
"At the end of last season, with Derrick Henry moving to the pros, everyone started to worry about the Crimson Tide's ground game. Particularly when the new season began, and the Tide revealed their running back lineup: a rookie, a freshman, and a backup's backup. The doubts were endless."
"Now, Saban and his players have responded in this emphatic fashion."
"Never underestimate the Crimson Tide's ground game. Never!"
ABC and ESPN, both of whom had been skeptics just moments earlier, now marveled at the Tide's performance, having been fully won over within just one quarter of play.
Some might say, "It's just two touchdowns, is it really that big a deal?"
But the ABC commentators held a different view.
"Number 23 of the Crimson Tide successfully navigated the one-yard line standoff, slipping through the grinding machine of defenders with nimble footwork, finding the smallest gap, and turning a fleeting moment into a touchdown."
"Beautiful!"
"This Number 23 might not be Derrick Henry—they are completely different players—but he's still finding ways to open up the ground game with his calm, calculated, and intelligent play, taking advantage of his strengths. His football IQ is quite impressive."
"Two rushing touchdowns, both achieved in completely different ways. This Number 23 has shown flashes of brilliance, and it's clear we haven't seen the full scope of his talent yet. It's going to be fun watching the rest of this game."
"Undoubtedly, the defending champions are maintaining firepower on both offense and defense."
"The Crimson Tide have now presented the Trojans with a problem."
"With their defense standing strong, Saban's offense has also shown its teeth. So, what now?"
ABC maintained its neutrality, as broadcasters, they naturally wanted the game to be as competitive as possible to drive ratings.
"The Trojans need to steady themselves, focus on their strengths, and find a way to get their offense going. They need to stabilize the game. It's time for the new-look offense to showcase its talent—from the head coach to the quarterback to the receiving corps, they need to rally."
"One score, that's all."
"Whether it's a field goal or a touchdown, that's what the Trojans need. There's no need to worry about their defense right now. They need to focus on executing their game and finding their rhythm."
"Otherwise, it's not just a question of whether their young quarterback can handle such a tough situation—the confidence of the entire Trojans' offense could be shattered."
"Let's not forget, this is a battle of opposites: the Trojans' offense versus the Crimson Tide's defense."
"Now, let's see what kind of strategy Helton will employ, and how Saban will respond."
"The pressure is back on the Trojans. They need someone to step up. They need a leader to restore their confidence. They need a breakthrough moment."
"Yes, football is a team sport, but even in a team, you still need a leader."
JuJu: Alright, alright, stop talking. I know it's my time to shine. If the team needs a superhero, it's got to be me, right?
Who else but me?
However—
JuJu's jaw dropped to the floor, shattering into pieces.
He had forgotten something—something very, very important.
Who's the hero and who's the villain depends on perspective. While the Trojans were searching for their leader, the Crimson Tide's leader wasn't going to just stand by.
Crimson Tide defensive captain Allen stepped up to take on the leadership role.
Saban knew the Trojans' offense was gearing up for a comeback, but they still had to get through the Crimson Tide's defense first. Saban decided to take the initiative—
Blitz.
In football, a blitz is when the defense aggressively attacks the offense, aiming to break through the offensive line and target the quarterback. The goal is to either pressure the quarterback into making a mistake or sack him, stopping the offense at its core.
If the quarterback can't make a pass, it doesn't matter how good the receivers and tight ends are—the ball simply won't get to them.
The Crimson Tide typically ran a "3-4" defense, which focuses on pressuring the offense rather than blitzing heavily.
That is to say, they usually disrupt the quarterback's throws rather than directly trying to sack him.
But "usually" doesn't mean they can't blitz.
Old habits die hard.
Saban, reading the game perfectly, called for a blitz on the first defensive series. Without warning, four linebackers surged forward, joining forces with the defensive line. Six players blitzed, overwhelming the offensive line, and Allen displayed his leadership.
One move, like a tiger pouncing downhill.
Sack!
Allen burst through the Trojans' offensive line, which looked like it was made of paper. In one step, he flew toward Darnold, slamming the young quarterback into the ground.
Dragged him.
And dragged him some more.
Darnold was stunned. His bones screamed in pain as his vision darkened, and the world around him seemed to shatter.
It wasn't just Darnold—even Hurts, standing on the sideline, trembled, watching Allen roar like the Hulk, his knees shaking.
JuJu: ...
JuJu had just started his route, ready to face off against Humphrey again, but then he saw the catastrophe unfold and froze.
The young Trojans were ready to launch their comeback.
But the seasoned Crimson Tide extinguished that fire immediately.
First down, 10 yards to go, and Darnold was sacked. Not only did they fail to gain yards, but they lost five yards.
Second down, 15 yards to go. Everyone expected the Trojans to pass, but Helton surprised them with a run play. The Crimson Tide defense didn't let up, and Foster, number 10, made a brilliant tackle at the line of scrimmage, allowing only a two-yard gain.
Third down, 13 yards to go. The Trojans were forced into a passing situation, with no need for any deception.
Still, Helton tried a strategic adjustment, using JuJu as a decoy while looking to connect with another receiver. He hoped Darnold's strong arm could turn things around.
The Crimson Tide's secondary delivered an outstanding performance, shutting down Darnold's pass attempt with ruthless efficiency, forcing the Trojans to punt.
One wave after another, like a relentless storm, left the Trojans gasping for air. Before they knew it, they were back on the sidelines, dazed and confused.
Young Darnold's eyes were glazed over, unable to find his focus.
Total domination, total destruction.
This game was nothing like they had imagined—so, what now?
Because the Crimson Tide offense was sharpening their knives, preparing for another attack.
Wait, they won't score again, right?
They can't, right?
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