The Alabama Crimson Tide were able to take down the Mississippi State Bulldogs this weekend on the road in impressive fashion.

Alabama won the game 56-23, slowing down the strong Bulldogs offense in the process. It was an impressive game all around for the Crimson Tide, showing the overall strength of this group on full display.

The Crimson Tide came into the game needing to withstand a tough road matchup, but they went into the hostile environment, proving themselves. This win now helps Alabama in their quest to get back to the College Football Playoff, pushing them into legitimate contender status.

Alabama now sits at No. 6 in the new AP Poll entering Week 6 of the college football season, moving up one spot after the win this week. The only teams ahead of the Crimson Tide are the Texas Longhorns, Georgia Bulldogs, Miami Hurricanes, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Ohio State Buckeyes.

With the Crimson Tide sitting just outside the top five of the nation, this team understands what is at stake the rest of the way. Alabama wants to be competing for championships, and it has been so far, so good for this group.

Next up for the Crimson Tide will be a matchup with the Bulldogs, setting up a massive SEC showdown this weekend. Alabama will be welcoming Georgia into Tuscaloosa, with the home-field potentially playing into the outcome of the game.

But the Crimson Tide understand that the Bulldogs are one of the best teams in the country, and this game will test them in different ways. While the win over Mississippi State was impressive, Georgia is an entirely different animal for Alabama to deal with.

Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell played very well again against Mississippi State, throwing for 285 yards and three touchdowns. On the ground, Russell also rushed for 16 yards and a touchdown, adding to his dual-threat abilities this year.

Russell has now started to generate some Heisman Trophy buzz this season, giving thought to him possibly making a trip to New York City later in the year. If Russell were to continue his strong start to the year, not only would he have a chance to win the award, but the Crimson Tide would likely continue to be a top team.

For now, Russell will focus on the upcoming game against Georgia, hoping to keep his strong season going. Georgia will throw different schemes against him, challenging him in a way that he has yet to see.

Kickoff between the Crimson Tide and Georgia is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. PT/7:30 p.m. ET next weekend.

Source: Yahoo Sports