3 bold predictions for Alabama's matchup with Eastern Illinois

3 bold predictions for Alabama's matchup with Eastern IllinoisStory byJake Boico, Roll Tide WireFri, November 21, 2025 at 6:00 PM UTC·2 min read

The Alabama Crimson Tide will face Eastern Illinois at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Tide enter the matchup following a disappointing loss to Oklahoma last weekend. Ty Simpson and the Alabama offense will look to bounce back against EIU, as the game could serve as an excellent boost of confidence prior to the Tide's crucial matchup with Auburn in Jordan-Hare Stadium next Saturday night. EIU enters the matchup with a record of 3-8 and Alabama will look to take full advantage of playing an underwhelming opponent towards the tail end of the 2025 season.

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Here are three bold takes for Alabama's matchup with Eastern Illinois.

Daniel Hill explodes for 100+ yards following his breakout performance

Nov 15, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Daniel Hill (4) runs the ball against Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kendal Daniels (5) during the fourth quarter at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images

Hill had the best game of his career against the Sooners last weekend. The promising running back led the team in rushing with a total of 60 yards, and Hill could quickly find himself taking full advantage of a weak Eastern Illinois defensive unit throughout the matchup. The star sophomore could see an increase in touches following his performance last week as well, as Hill will look to continue making a name for himself.

Keelon Russell throws for two touchdowns and 100+ yards in just one quarter of play

Sep 6, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell (12) drops back to pass against UL Monroe at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama defeated UL Monroe 73-0. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Alabama should have no problem against Eastern Illinois in Tuscaloosa. Russell is an extremely talented freshman that has shined despite facing limited playing time throughout 2025. The game could quickly get out of hand in favor of the Tide, and the dynamic quarterback could be in prime position for a major performance throughout the fourth quarter if Alabama is able to take a commanding lead early on.

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Alabama's defense holds EIU to three total points throughout the contest

Oct 25, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Lanorris Sellers (16) looks to pass under pressure from Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Yhonzae Pierre (42) in the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

The Alabama defense has remained as one of the best units in college football throughout the majority of the season. Sophomore defensive lineman Yhonzae Pierre currently leads the team in sacks with six, and the Tide's defensive unit as a whole could quickly take full advantage of their opponent on Saturday afternoon. A strong performance from the Alabama defense could be a major boost of momentum entering next weekend's contest as well and the Tide will look to send an authoritative message prior to the Iron Bowl.

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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football bold predictions vs. Eastern Illinois in Week 13

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