Evaluating Alabama football's shutout win over Missouri

Alabama football kept its College Football Playoff hopes alive Saturday, defeating Missouri 34-0. The win moved the Crimson Tide to 6-2 on the season and 3-2 in SEC play.

Despite the shutout, it wasn't a perfect performance. It was an ugly game, especially early on, but UA cruised to the win with a solid defensive performance.

Here are our scores from Saturday's game.

Offense: B-

It turns out that good things happen when Jalen Milroe isn't the only rushing threat the defense has to worry about. Alabama managed 271 yards on the ground, with its quarterback accounting for just 50 of them.

It definitely opened things up. However, the offensive was far from reaching its full potential.

Especially early on, Alabama wasted attacks and was hampered by penalties. Towards the end, the group was able to take advantage of the Crimson Tide defense's performance, so overall a solid, if unspectacular, mark.

Defense: A+

For the second straight game, Alabama's defense was outstanding. The scoreboard tells the story, and the shutout was clearly something the Crimson Tide valued, as the starters returned to the game for a goal-line score late.

UA ejected Missouri starter Brady Cook from the game in the first half and then ate backup Drew Pyne's lunch. Pyne threw three interceptions and managed just 42 yards passing.

The defense repeatedly gave Alabama excellent starting position. Saturday's performance was as good as it gets on that side of the ball and could help give Kane Wommack's unit momentum heading into the long run of the season.

Special Teams: B-

Graham Nicholson hit multiple field goals in a game for the first time this season. James Burnip played as best he could.

However, this grade is ruined by some mental mistakes. Alabama had some painful penalties and an ill-advised shot by Jaylen Mbakwe.

Overall, the special teams just need to be a little cleaner in the future.

Overall: B

It's a clear win in SEC play. There's no denying that, especially at a time when Alabama needs every game.

It just wasn't particularly inspiring. This is somewhat mitigated by some remaining offensive and special teams issues.