Instant Analysis: No. 10 Alabama 17, South Florida 3

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TAMPA, Fla. — The fact that Alabama was playing a road game at South Florida was unusual in and of itself. The Crimson Tide has never played a true road game against a non-Power Five opponent under Nick Saban.
And Alabama's performance was pretty unusual for a Saban-coached team, but a late touchdown rush from Ty Simpson put the game away for the Crimson Tide in a 17-3 victory inside Raymond James Stadium Saturday night.
Quarterbacks were once again the story of the night, with Tyler Buchner earning his first start in an Alabama uniform, but he was relieved by Simpson before halftime.
It was a career-best performance for senior running back Roydell Williams, who finished with 129 yards and a touchdown. He was a huge part in Alabama's ability to finish the game off.
The highlights of the game came on defense for the Crimson Tide. After failing to force any turnovers against Texas, Alabama got a forced fumble and interception against USF. The defense also stopped the Bulls on fourth down four times.
Malachi Moore had the fourth quarter interception that set up Alabama's final scoring drive. Dallas Turner forced the fumble and had 2.5 sacks. The only points the defense allowed came on a field goal in the first quarter after a muffed punt on special teams from Kool-Aid McKinstry.
Alabama improves to 2-1 on the season and will open SEC play next Saturday against Ole Miss.
Watch the video above to hear the final thoughts and takeaways from the field at Raymond James Stadium after the Crimson Tide's first road win of the season.
See also:
Alabama's Defense Stepped Up Big in Ugly Win Over USF

Katie Windham is the assistant editor for BamaCentral, primarily covering football, basketball, gymnastics and softball. She is a two-time graduate of the University of Alabama and has covered a variety of Crimson Tide athletics since 2019 for outlets like The Tuscaloosa News, The Crimson White and the Associated Press before joining BamaCentral full time in 2021. Windham has covered College Football Playoff games, the Women's College World Series, NCAA March Madness, SEC Tournaments and championships in multiple sports.
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