Four Downs: Key questions for UA

The top-ranked University of Alabama faces Washington on New Year's Eve in a College Football Playoff semifinal at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. Here are four questions UA will need to answer:

1. Can Alabama contain Jake Browning?

Washington's quarterback is efficient and effective. Browning is the engine that drives these Huskies, completing almost two-thirds of his pass attempts for more than 250 yards per game with 42 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Alabama will need to disrupt his rhythm.

2. Will the Crimson Tide get its running game going?

The Huskies rank in the top 20 nationally against the run, holding opponents to less than 3.5 yards per carry and 125 yards per game. Alabama's run offense averages 245 yards per game and 5.74 yards per carry. Something has to give, and UA needs balance to attack effectively.

3. Will turnovers play a big part in the outcome?

Alabama is facing a team that leads the nation in turnover margin at plus-21 on the season. Washington protects the ball and has a lot of takeaways. Alabama is plus-five on the year, but has been careless with the ball at times. It can't afford to hand Washington opportunities.

4. Which team will win third down?

Alabama's defense allows conversions on third down less than 30 percent of the time, while Washington's offense converts better than 45 percent of the time. Alabama's offense converts at a 47.5-percent rate, while Washington's defense allows a 31-percent conversion rate. The team that wins this down will have a decided edge.