Iwas wrong about the Alabama Crimson Tide .

I expected all the problems we saw early -- protection issues, lack of run identity, inconsistency on the road -- to be major roadblocks. I thought those flaws would linger and cost them in the SEC grind, which is why I pegged them to miss the playoff.

But they have done what elite programs do: adapt, evolve and rise. And now, the Crimson Tide are the rightful favorites to win the conference.

That opening loss to Florida State felt like confirmation of every preseason doubt; 17 points, eight penalties, no rhythm. But since then, Alabama has rebuilt itself piece by piece into something sharper and steadier. Quarterback Ty Simpson has gone from cautious to commanding, averaging 8.5 yards per attempt over his past four games against solid c

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