Alabama’s running game wasn’t good enough in 2025. It averaged only 109.9 rushing yards per game, ranked No. 118 among 136 FBS teams. It forced the offense to be one dimensional, and the lack of a running game allowed opposing defenses to focus more on stopping the pass.

Where the Crimson Tide stands in ESPN's Joe Lunardi's Bracketology, KenPom ratings and NET rankings one game into SEC play.

Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza threw for 192 yards and three touchdowns, while the defense held Alabama to just 193 total yards. Indiana earned its first win in a bowl game since 1991, while Alabama suffered its biggest loss in any game since 1998.

Alabama football’s run game was as bad as it has been in decades during the 2025 season. No running back emerged as a star for the Crimson Tide, and when it came time to win crucial games late in the year, the burden fell entirely on Ty Simpson and the passing attack.

Alabama star freshman offensive lineman Michael Carroll has announced his return to Tuscaloosa for the 2026 season.

North Alabama will try to stop its five-game losing streak when the Lions take on Eastern Kentucky. Thursday's matchup is the first of the season between the two squads.

The Crimson Tide's 2025 season concluded on New Year's Day with a blowout loss to No. 1 Indiana in the Rose Bowl. Alabama finished the year with an 11-4 record, and the schedule was filled with close battles and live viewership that was through the roof.