Jordan Rodgers: Ty Simpson's legs will be deciding factor in Alabama at Missouri

Alabama is heading to Columbia this weekend for one of the biggest matchups of the SEC season. The showdown with Missouri features some of the conference’s brightest stars — from the Crimson Tide’s Ty Simpson and Ryan Williams to the Tigers’ Ahmad Hardy and Zion Young — and both teams are looking to make a statement in the College Football Playoff race.

Which side will prevail, and who will be the difference-maker inside Memorial Stadium? ESPN’s Jordan Rodgers and Heather Dinich broke down the matchup on Get Up Friday morning, with Rodgers pointing to Alabama’s quarterback as the X-factor.

“I think it’s Ty Simpson’s legs,” Rodgers said. “Missouri is really good at getting after the quarterback — Zion Young and Damon Wilson are two of the best in the country off the edge. But the X-factor all year has been Ty Simpson’s legs.

“He’s so good from the pocket, throws with great accuracy and anticipation, but he’s been lights out under pressure — lights out when blitzed, and lights out using his legs to pick up first downs and make plays outside the pocket. That, to me, is the difference. Ty’s playing at another level right now.”

Rodgers’ assessment backs up what Alabama fans have seen over the past couple of weeks. Simpson has been stellar in the Tide’s recent wins, totaling 1,478 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and just one interception, along with a pair of rushing scores.

Meanwhile, Dinich believes the game carries major postseason implications for both sides. She argued a win for Alabama would strengthen their claim as the best one-loss team in the country, while Missouri could vault into serious playoff contention with an upset.

“Well, it starts with vindication for Kalen DeBoer, right? Especially after all those conversations we had following that loss to Florida State,” Dinich said. “But also, this is a chance — with Indiana and Oregon playing — the loser of that game is going to open up a spot for some movement in the rankings.

“So this is an opportunity for Alabama, which is currently the country’s best one-loss team, to further cement its place in the eyes of the selection committee. You’ve got to look at Missouri, though — this is an undefeated team that’s one of the best rushing offenses in the country, and one of the best at extending plays and converting on third down.

“This would be a legitimate road win against another top-25 opponent for Alabama. And for Mizzou, it’s a chance to make a national statement — to make people say, ‘Hey, maybe this is a team we should start taking seriously in the College Football Playoff race.’”

Whoever comes out on top will be in an excellent position entering the second half of the SEC schedule. Kickoff is set for Noon ET on Saturday, with Alabama and Missouri battling in what promises to be one of the weekend’s marquee matchups.