Alabama shows knack for hanging onto ball

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Alabama coach Nick Saban says turnover ratio is “the most critical statistical factor in winning and losing.”

The second-ranked Crimson Tide have dominated in that area. Alabama has only committed two turnovers in the past five games while forcing nine and returning two interceptions for touchdowns.

That ratio has helped keep any opponents from even coming close to beating the Tide.

Quarterback AJ McCarron has thrown 127 straight passes without an interception. Tailback Trent Richardson hasn’t fumbled in his last 387 touches.

Alabama is outscoring opponents by an average of 38-7. That’s the reward.

As for the punishment, Richardson says if one of the running backs loses a fumble, “we’re going to be on the bench somewhere.”

The Crimson Tide play at Mississippi on Saturday.