After Alabama’s thrilling 41-34 victory over Georgia, tight end CJ Dippre firmly stated his belief that the Crimson Tide should be considered the top team in the country. The dramatic matchup marked a significant moment in the college football season, as Alabama rallied from a 34-33 deficit to clinch the win, showcasing both resilience and talent on the field.
Dippre’s confidence is not unfounded. The Tide stormed out to a stunning 28-0 lead against the highly regarded Bulldogs, underscoring their dominance early on. “This is the biggest game so far that happened this season,” Dippre declared. “We came out on top. The scoreboard doesn’t say it all. We went up 28-0 against a very good team. I think we just went out there and did what we had to do.”
Entering the game as slight underdogs—a rarity for Alabama in Bryant-Denny Stadium—many viewed the matchup as a potential upset. However, Dippre insisted that the team never saw themselves as underdogs. “We know what we had to do. We obviously are always going to think we’re No. 1 because that’s what we truly think we are,” he remarked. This mentality reflects the confidence that permeates the Alabama locker room, as the team prepared meticulously for the challenge presented by Georgia.
The game itself was a rollercoaster, with Georgia making a fierce comeback to take the lead. Yet Alabama’s response was both swift and decisive, highlighted by Jalen Milroe’s 75-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Williams that ultimately secured the win. Dippre praised Milroe’s performance, noting his ability to adjust and perform under pressure. “He had an almost flawless game,” Dippre said, reflecting on how Milroe utilized sideline tablets to adapt during the game.
Looking ahead, Dippre expressed a desire for Alabama to have a rematch against Texas, currently ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press poll. Texas handed Alabama a tough loss last year, and the Tide tight end made it clear that they want another shot at the Longhorns. “We’re huge on not letting anyone come into our house and do what they want to do,” he said, alluding to the pride Alabama takes in protecting their home field.
While the Longhorns are not on Alabama’s schedule this season, a potential rematch in the SEC Championship could be on the horizon. The thought of facing Texas again adds an extra layer of motivation for Dippre and the team. “Last year is what it is, but I wish we had another opportunity to make that right,” he lamented.
The win over Georgia not only solidified Alabama’s status as a national contender but also served as a statement to the college football world. With the upcoming Associated Press poll likely to reflect their performance, Alabama’s ascent to the top spot seems plausible, especially given their historical prowess in the sport. This win against Georgia—ranked No. 2 at the time—further establishes the Tide as a formidable force in college football.
Coach Kalen DeBoer, whose team faced its own challenges in the wake of Alabama’s win, recognized the psychological elements at play in such high-stakes matchups. He spoke to the importance of maintaining confidence while not succumbing to arrogance, emphasizing the need for his players to carry an edge into their games. “Our guys do a great job of just having that edge to them that comes along with that mentality,” DeBoer said. His comments highlight the mental toughness required at the highest levels of the sport.
The win against Georgia also served to bolster Alabama’s claims of being a top-tier program, as they continue to thrive under pressure. The Crimson Tide’s ability to bounce back from adversity—trailing after initially dominating—speaks volumes about their character and determination. This resilience will be crucial as they look to sustain their momentum in the weeks ahead.
As the college football landscape shifts and rankings are updated, Alabama is poised to reclaim its rightful place at the top. With players like Dippre leading the charge, the Tide’s confidence and focus remain unwavering. As they aim for another championship, the desire for redemption against teams like Texas only fuels their fire, making the rest of the season an exciting journey for Alabama fans and players alike.
