Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama running plays from Ohio State's playbook

Published Sep. 10, 2015 3:48 p.m. ET

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If you can't beat them, join them. That's what Nick Saban must have said to Lane Kiffin this offseason, as Alabama's most successful running play in the opener against Wisconsin comes straight from Ohio State's playbook. 

Of course the Badgers have seen Ohio State's plays before, but the last time they faced them they lost 59-0 in the Big Ten championship game. 

Chris B. Brown posted his latest piece on Grantland Thursday, which centers on the Power and Counter run plays that have been a part of the game since its inception. Head coach Urban Meyer has merged the shotgun spread and these Power and Counter runs to perfection in Ohio State's latest title run. 

Having seen firsthand the effectiveness of the run, Alabama now utilizes the very same concepts in their offense. In fact, Derrick Henry's 56-yard touchdown run was accomplished by using this technique. 

To get a complete analysis of Brown's breakdown, click here. It's lengthy but worth the read. 

(h/t Grantland)

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