COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Alabama Crimson Tide survived a fierce test from the South Carolina Gamecocks, pulling off a dramatic 29–22 comeback victory on Saturday night to stay unbeaten in SEC play. The win pushed Alabama’s record to 7–1 overall and 5–0 in the conference, while South Carolina fell to 3–5 on the season.
Alabama trailed for much of the second half, but the Tide delivered when it mattered most. Quarterback Ty Simpson led a composed, 79-yard drive late in the fourth quarter, finding Germie Bernard for a 4-yard touchdown before connecting again for a two-point conversion to tie the game at 22–22.
Moments later, Alabama’s defense produced the play of the night. Linebacker Deontae Lawson stripped South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers, recovering the fumble to give the Tide possession deep in Gamecock territory. Just three plays later, Bernard struck again—this time taking a direct snap and dashing 25 yards into the end zone for the game-winning score with 34 seconds left on the clock.
Key Moments and Turning Points
South Carolina had controlled the tempo for much of the game, taking the lead in the third quarter on a spectacular 54-yard touchdown from Nyck Harbor, followed by a long field goal to extend the margin. The Gamecocks’ defense frustrated Alabama’s run game, holding the Tide to just 72 rushing yards on 23 carries.
But Alabama’s resilience and late-game composure proved decisive. Despite offensive struggles early, the Tide’s passing attack came alive in the final minutes, and the defense clamped down when it mattered most.
Player Highlights
- Germie Bernard (Alabama): Delivered two late touchdowns, including the game-winner, and showcased explosive versatility both as a receiver and rusher.
- Ty Simpson (Alabama): Showed maturity and confidence under pressure, leading two crucial late-game drives that swung momentum.
- LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina): Displayed dual-threat ability with 222 passing yards and 67 rushing yards, but the late fumble proved costly.
What It Means
For Alabama, this win reinforced championship-level resolve. Even on a night when the offense sputtered, the Tide found ways to win—an essential quality in a tight SEC race. The defense remains the backbone of the team, but Simpson’s continued growth adds a new dimension heading into the season’s final stretch.
For South Carolina, the loss was another bitter reminder of how close margins define SEC football. Despite strong stretches of execution and crowd energy, the inability to close out a game against an elite opponent underscores the gap the Gamecocks must close to compete consistently at the top level.
Final Takeaway
Saturday night in Columbia delivered everything fans expect from SEC football—intensity, drama, and high-stakes moments. Alabama proved once again that championship DNA isn’t just about talent but about how a team responds under fire.
South Carolina walked off the field disappointed, but not defeated in spirit. Alabama walked off still in control of its destiny, its national title hopes intact, and its confidence renewed heading into the crucial weeks ahead.
Credit: SportBuzzHub.com | October 25, 2025
