Alabama goes Kirby Smart, runs terrible fake field goal

Alabama showed the same desperation that Georgia’s Kirby Smart did in the SEC Championship Game. And much like what happened with the Bulldogs, the Crimson Tide failed miserably.

Alabama had a 4th-and-6 at the Clemson 23 on their first possession of the third quarter. They lined up for a 40-yard field goal attempt, but Clemson had several defenders off the line, sensing a fake was coming. They were right, as the Tide tried a fake that was well sniffed out by Clemson and easily stopped.

Nothing like having your kicker lead block. That’s what separates Nick Saban from the pack. pic.twitter.com/jw3aTXaGmA

— Barstool Sports (@barstooltweetss) January 8, 2019

The Twitter reactions were predictable.

Jesus. That was horrendous.

— Adam Kramer (@KegsnEggs) January 8, 2019

Clemson saw that fake coming a mile away. I'm not sure I've ever seen a defense more ready for a fake field goal.

— Michael David Smith (@MichaelDavSmith) January 8, 2019

Nick Saban unsuccessfully tries his inner Les Miles

— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) January 8, 2019

Saban was stunned on the sideline.

"Now, hear me out — next time what if we FAKE THE FAKE?" pic.twitter.com/9mfR3wiGTE

— Cover 3 Podcast (@Cover3Podcast) January 8, 2019

So you’re telling me that using the kicker as a lead blocker for the holder against a well-prepared Clemson defense didn’t work? Shocker.

For reference, here was Georgia’s ill-fated fake punt against Alabama.