tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38827925830815445722011-11-27T19:16:52.324-06:00Covering Crimson Tide athletics with The Anniston StarConsolidated Publishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18086141170000972306noreply@blogger.comBlogger1021100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-70967391795185230812009-01-01T23:05:00.000-06:002009-01-01T23:06:10.692-06:00

NEW ORLEANS — There was nothing new out of Alabama regarding suspended left tackle Andre Smith for alleged improper contact with an agent. On Wednesday, Tide coach Nick Saban said Smith’s situation was an institutional matter and not an NCAA matter. On Thursday Saban was asked whether the Smith situation had tarnished the season for him.“I think it’s disappointing any time you have a circumstance

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-732112778243272362008-12-31T14:10:00.003-06:002008-12-31T14:14:18.118-06:00

NEW ORLEANS — Alabama is currently practicing at the Superdome in New Orleans.Media is not allowed to watch this practice, so we can't report on what is going on. It's still unclear as to who will replace suspended left tackle Andre Smith in Friday's Sugar Bowl.Coach Nick Saban is expected to speak with reporters following the practice session. It will be his first comments since Smith was

Consolidated Publishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18086141170000972306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-84841698354894915822008-11-13T23:39:00.000-06:002008-11-13T23:40:12.713-06:00

TUSCALOOSA — The memories are not pleasant for former Alabama quarterback Don Jacobs. When Jacobs, the football coach at Elkmont High, talks with his Alabama teammates about their years playing together, the 1980 game against Mississippi State never comes up.“We talk about the good times,” Jacobs said. “We don’t talk about the bad times.”On Nov. 1 of that year, the then-No. 1 Tide came to

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-31621936932212560882008-11-06T21:01:00.002-06:002008-11-06T21:02:52.196-06:00

TUSCALOOSA — Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban had a stake in last Tuesday’s elections. While Saban did not say whether he voted for Barack Obama or John McCain for President, his good friend, West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, won reelection. Manchin defeated Russ Weeks.“All I know is, there are a whole bunch of people who voted for the guy who won and a whole bunch of people who voted for the guy

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-21767384484141289192008-11-02T23:50:00.000-06:002008-11-02T23:51:14.751-06:00

TUSCALOOSA — LSU coach Les Miles said can’t imagine what it would be like to coach against a team he had an emotional bond with. He never has, but he almost did. In 2006, LSU could have played the Michigan Wolverines, Miles’ alma mater, in the Rose Bowl, had Florida not gone to the national championship game that year. Instead, LSU played Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl.“When it fell through I can't

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-7257076789633516742008-11-01T23:15:00.001-05:002008-11-01T23:16:35.814-05:00

• Ingram returns to form: After Alabama’s victory against Tennessee, Saban said, freshman running back Mark Ingram did not look like himself. Against Arkansas State, Ingram looked every bit like the player who ranks second on the Tide in rushing yards. He led Alabama with 113 yards rushing and two touchdowns.“He is a warrior,” running back Glen Coffee said. “He is a great football player and a

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-6464447395666657602008-10-28T21:39:00.000-05:002008-10-28T21:40:26.138-05:00

TUSCALOOSA — Roy Upchurch doesn’t look like a fullback. At 6-foot, 201 pounds, he doesn’t exactly have the prototypical size for the position. But Saturday against Tennessee, he stood in the backfield with fellow running back Glen Coffee, blocking for quarterback John Parker Wilson and Coffee.“It helps the offense. You can do more, open up more, and run a lot of trick plays,” Upchurch said. “I

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-10829292719939499732008-10-26T23:13:00.000-05:002008-10-26T23:17:59.868-05:00

TUSCALOOSA — In the second half against Tennessee, Alabama needed a change of pace with its running game. With freshman Mark Ingram struggling, the Tide called on Roy Upchurch.The junior from Tallahassee, Fla., led Alabama with a career-high 86 yards rushing on 14 carries, all of which came in the second half of Alabama’s 29-9 victory.On the Tide’s final scoring drive, Upchurch carried the ball

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-73116490648184235742008-09-29T23:44:00.001-05:002008-09-29T23:44:49.647-05:00

TUSCALOOSA — Junior left tackle Andre Smith says he doesn’t want to think about the NFL draft. Not right now, not when his team is ranked No. 2 in the country. But his family sometimes comes up to Smith and tells him what draft experts say about him, that he is a potential first round pick.“I’m always like, ‘Don’t come to me and tell me that,’” Smith said. “It doesn’t matter. I’m worried about

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-80701088776846415302008-09-26T00:25:00.002-05:002008-09-26T00:26:43.117-05:00

Cody EffectIt’s tough to say who Alabama’s MVP is through the first four games, but right now it might be nose tackle Terrence Cody. None of Alabama’s opponents have had an answer for the giant junior college transfer as he has stuffed up the middle and opened up lanes for the Tide’s defensive players.Arkansas, with its All-America center Jonathan Luigs, still needed to double-team the 6-foot-5,

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-80175523717037537742008-09-16T23:29:00.000-05:002008-09-16T23:30:08.290-05:00

TUSCALOOSA — So Nick Saban says that he doesn’t pay attention to what Auburn does? Well, think again. The Alabama coach chuckled when asked about the Tigers’ 3-2 victory against Mississippi State last weekend. The laughter did not come at the expense of Auburn’s offense, but mostly because of its stellar defensive performance.Saban talked about the Tigers’ opponents’ third down conversion rate (3

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-91338588561442451992008-09-15T09:31:00.002-05:002008-09-15T09:32:12.818-05:00

Three things Alabama should remember after its 41-7 victory over Western Kentucky The real game begins: It's nice to be 3-0, but now it's time for the real part of the season to start. Clemson was a test, but wins at Arkansas and Georgia can validate whether you are for real. Run the ball: It is pretty obvious that the strength of your offense is the running game. I know the offense strives for

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-11832603900997942872008-09-15T09:27:00.002-05:002008-09-15T09:30:55.688-05:00

Alabama's star freshman nabbed an SEC honor, which was announced on Monday. Here is the snippet from the SEC offices.SEC FRESHMAN OF THE WEEKJULIO JONESWide ReceiverALABAMA6-4 • 210Foley, Ala. (HS) • Jones caught five passes for 66 yards and a touchdown in Alabama’s 41-7 win against Western Kentucky.• The score was the second of his career and was a 12-yarder in the third quarter, which gave the

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-84656844795627357062008-09-08T09:41:00.002-05:002008-09-08T09:42:04.400-05:00

Both Alabama and Auburn got one this week. Here's the list from the SEC offices. SEC FOOTBALL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (Games of Sept. 6) SEC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEKKNOWSHON MORENOTailbackGEORGIA5-11 • 207 • SophomoreBelford, N.J. (Middletown South HS) • Moreno rushed for 168 yards on 18 carries and a career-high tying three touchdowns in Georgia’s 56-17 win over Central Michigan. • Moreno also

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-85460161927016022082008-09-07T23:14:00.000-05:002008-09-07T23:15:19.651-05:00

TUSCALOOSA — With 4:41 remaining in the third quarter, Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban ditched his running back rotation and went with freshman Mark Ingram as the feature back.The move proved fortuitous, as Ingram rushed for 39 yards on the drive, including a touchdown run where he swept to the left, found a hole and ran in for the 15-yard score.“He certainly made some outstanding runs when there

John Dietrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06519367693397716001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-91144331815750895522008-09-02T14:12:00.002-05:002008-09-02T14:17:22.809-05:00

The new polls are out, and there's good news and bad news. Alabama moved up four spots to No. 17. That, for the Alabama fans, would be the good news. The bad news? Well, if you can call it that, is that for right now, the Tide will not get a shot at the No. 1 team in the country in a few weeks. After Southern Cal's impressive win over Virginia, Georgia slipped to the No. 2 spot. Here is the USA

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-60244954988317961442008-05-26T11:43:00.002-05:002008-05-26T11:45:56.538-05:00

Alabama found out its baseball postseason destination on Monday. It's Conway, S.C., home of Coastal Carolina University.The third-seeded Crimson Tide (34-26) will face East Carolina (40-17) in a first-round game of the double-elimination regional. Top-seeded Coastal Carolina (47-12) and Columbia (22-28) will face off in the other first-round game.The schedule for the regionals will be released

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-15136626880595345542008-05-22T02:07:00.002-05:002008-05-22T02:17:05.358-05:00

The SEC baseball tournament and the deadlines of the print media world collided in catastrophic fashion Wednesday night, at least for me.In a column I wrote for Thursday's paper, I predicted that this Alabama team was different than those of the last three years, which had made pitiful showings in Hoover. Since Alabama's first-round game with Kentucky didn't start until 10:50 p.m. (nearly three

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-19218393794539596262008-04-30T13:00:00.003-05:002008-04-30T13:08:08.994-05:00

It didn't take Alabama football coach Nick Saban long to find away around the new NCAA rule --- AKA the "Saban rule" --- that prohibits head coaches from recruiting off-campus during the spring recruiting period (April 15-May 31). Saban has begun taking advantage of new technology, using video-conferencing over the Internet to get a chance to meet coaches and prospects that he would have

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-8495200047756897272008-02-15T16:21:00.002-06:002008-02-15T16:30:16.572-06:00

Few things on a Friday afternoon:* First, Alabama has set its 2008 homecoming football game. It will be the Nov. 1 game against Arkansas State. That's a little later than ideal in terms of weather, but since schools generally like to face a non-conference (read: beatable) opponent for homecoming, it might have been the only option. The Tide's other non-conference home games are against Tulane on

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-55335148980570901602008-02-12T11:14:00.001-06:002008-02-12T11:14:22.118-06:00

For those of you wanting to keep up with the rest of the league, here's the spring football dates as released by the SEC.Alabama (Start: March 13 / Finish: April 15 / Spring Game - April 12)Arkansas (Start: April 3 / Finish: April 26)Auburn (Start: Feb. 28 / Finish: March 29)Florida (Start: March 19 / Finish: April 12)Georgia (Start: March 3 / Finish: April 5)Kentucky (Start: March 26

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-6376978200212366392008-02-07T12:03:00.000-06:002008-02-07T12:12:10.356-06:00

In perhaps the least surprising news of the week, Alabama assistant coach Lance Thompson has been named Rivals.com's National Recruiter of the Year. Read that story here.Thompson helped Alabama lock down the talent-rich Mobile area this year, serving as the primary recruiter for the likes of Julio Jones, Burton Scott, Mark Barron and Glenn Harbin. In total, he secured 10 verbal commitments, two

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-5708721533075035512008-02-06T18:04:00.001-06:002008-02-06T18:22:41.468-06:00

Alabama didn't sign every player it went after this football recruiting season, it just seemed that way. But perhaps more signficantly, the Crimson Tide absolutely hammered Auburn on the recruiting front, both in-state and out-of-state.You can theorize all you want as to why this is, but it's safe to say that Nick Saban's arrival has upped the stakes in at least this aspect of the Iron Bowl

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-53252150689119032382008-02-06T11:44:00.000-06:002008-02-06T11:46:18.041-06:00

Julio Jones' committment to Alabama vaulted the Crimson Tide into the No. 1 spot in the national recruiting rankings, according to Rivals.com. The Tide had been second at the beginning of the day.See that list here.Alabama already ranked No. 1 according to Scout.com.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-83240580046587718142008-02-06T11:34:00.000-06:002008-02-06T11:35:18.542-06:00

Five-star wide receiver prospect Julio Jones of Foley has verbally committed to Alabama. Check annistonstar.com for updates throughout the day.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-9402589761883195572008-02-06T11:19:00.000-06:002008-02-06T11:21:14.602-06:00

Add the following players to Alabama's official list of 2008 signees, according to rolltide.com:DB Wesley NeighborsDE Michael WilliamsDL Brandon LewisDB Alonzo LawrenceOL John Michael Boswell

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-12268041940615602742008-02-06T11:03:00.001-06:002008-02-06T11:03:25.248-06:00

Birmingham Huffman football players Marcel and Demerius Dareus each verbally committed to Alabama on Wednesday morning, but it's unclear if both will sign with the Crimson Tide.Of the two, only Marcel Dareus has a firm offer from the Crimson Tide, according to Rivals.com. Marcel, a 6-foot-4, 275-pound, three-star defensive tackle, chose the Crimson Tide over offers from Auburn and North Carolina,

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-26737275011410540142008-02-06T10:29:00.000-06:002008-02-06T10:32:10.014-06:00

Add the following six players officially to Alabama's 2008 signing class, according to rolltide.com:DL Damian SquareRB Ivan MatchettOL Tyler LoveDL Undra BillingsleyDL Glenn HarbinLB Courtney UpshawAlso, Birmingham Huffman defensive tackle has pushed his announcement back to 11 a.m. He's narrowed his choices to Alabama, Auburn and North Carolina.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-5050505020670434902008-02-06T10:11:00.001-06:002008-02-06T10:13:58.616-06:00

Robert Quinn, a 4-star defensive end prospect from North Charleston, S.C., committed and signed with North Carolina on Wednesday, a rare recruiting loss for Alabama. Quinn, from Fort Dorchester High School, had narrowed his final three choices to North Carolina, Alabama and Auburn, but ultimately opted to stay close to home and signed with the Tar Heels. Alabama has gotten commitments from nearly

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-15215425177528032302008-02-06T09:30:00.000-06:002008-02-06T09:33:37.084-06:00

Add the following to Alabama's 2008 signing class,according to rolltide.com:DB Robby GreenOL Barrett JonesLB Don'ta HightowerRB Chris JordanDB Mark BarronQB Brad SmelleyWR Destin HoodRB Jermaine Preyear

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-12089790910817168472008-02-06T08:20:00.000-06:002008-02-06T08:23:06.215-06:00

For the first time, Alabama is giving live recruiting updates on its official site, rolltide.com. As of 8:20 a.m., the Crimson Tide had two letters of intent in hand, from Tallahassee, Fla., wide receiver Melvin Ray, and Norcross, Ga., wide receiver/linebacker Devonta Bolton. With the December signings of kicker Corey Smith (Bunker Hill, W.Va.) and wide receiver Chris Jackson (McDonough, Ga.),

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-85354575711402321772008-01-31T19:38:00.001-06:002008-01-31T19:43:26.118-06:00

Alabama football coach Nick Saban announced on Thursday that the Crimson Tide will begin spring practice on March 13, but will have its workout schedule interrupted by spring break.The Crimson Tide will practice both March 13-14, then take the following week off for spring break. Practice will resume on March 24, with three workouts per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) leading up to the April

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-31523497678923402052008-01-30T10:25:00.000-06:002008-01-30T10:26:45.442-06:00

Per UA Media relations: TUSCALOOSA --- Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced the hiring of Jim McElwain as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach on Wednesday. McElwain served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Fresno State last year after spending the 2006 season in the NFL as quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders. McElwain made an immediate impact in his first

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-6072151211488940062008-01-13T17:59:00.001-06:002008-01-13T18:00:43.635-06:00

TUSCALOOSA --- Alabama offensive lineman Antoine Caldwell has scheduled a press conference for noon Monday to announce his status for the NFL draft.Caldwell, a junior from Montgomery, has one year of eligibility remaining at Alabama, but said in December that he was considering forgoing his senior year. The deadline to enter the NFL draft is Tuesday.Caldwell started nine games at four different

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-66582787442308474542008-01-11T13:13:00.001-06:002008-01-11T13:14:52.508-06:00

Per Alabama media relations. No start date for spring practice has yet been set: TUSCALOOSA --- The University of Alabama football program will hold its annual A-Day Spring Football Game on Saturday, April 12, 2008 at Bryant-Denny Stadium. A kickoff time remains undetermined. Further details about Alabama’s Spring Practices and all A-Day weekend activities will be released as they are finalized.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-57521928824452352032008-01-10T21:50:00.000-06:002008-01-10T21:53:38.490-06:00

A little more on the story that we ran on the page 5C dealing with the future of a playoff system in college football.From the AJC story ...Here is how the other presidents responded when asked which of four categories best summarized their stance:It’s time for a playoff but I’m not sure about this particular model.— Henry Bienen, Northwestern— Richard Brodhead, Duke— Jack Hawkins, Troy— Robert

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-62856846762549591562008-01-10T01:32:00.000-06:002008-01-10T01:42:19.424-06:00

Looks like Mack Brown could be prying around on the other side of the state now in attempts to bring a legend back to Austin.But don't get your seat cushion in a wad just yet. It's just a (unlikely) rumor according to Kirk Bohls of the Austin American-Statesman.With rumors swirling about the possible return of Longhorn legend Major Applewhite to Austin as new running backs coach with a possible

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-65343825057925246892008-01-08T19:15:00.001-06:002008-01-08T19:15:56.615-06:00

Courtesy Alabama media relations:NEW ORLEANS, La. --- University of Alabama true freshman linebacker Rolando McClain has been named to the 2007 Freshman All-America team by the Football Writers Association of American (FWAA) at the organization’s annual awards breakfast on Tuesday. McClain, a native of Decatur, started in nine of the team’s 13 games in his initial collegiate season. He became the

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-47566632187271830402008-01-07T17:43:00.000-06:002008-01-07T18:03:43.232-06:00

Alabama center Antoine Caldwell has until Jan. 15 to decide whether or not he'll give up his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL draft. Perhaps expediting Caldwell's decision, however, is the fact that spring classes at Alabama begin on Wednesday.So look for Caldwell to make his decision in the next 48 hours. But until then, should he stay or should he go?It's an interesting debate,

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-1763512379057174412008-01-07T17:41:00.001-06:002008-01-07T17:43:12.764-06:00

What do you think about Alabama's trip to the Independence Bowl?Shreveport again? No thanks. 4 (7%) They're lucky to be in a bowl at all 27 (51%) UA was robbed. They should be headed to the Liberty Bowl 1 (1%) At least it's not the toilet bowl 7 (13%) The teams are even, so it should be a good game 13 (25%) The results seem to show well grounded fans. Don't forget to vote on

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-66964067225396921042008-01-05T14:22:00.000-06:002008-01-05T14:31:45.265-06:00

Tyler Edwards, one of Alabama's top remaining targets of the recruiting season, verbally committed to LSU on Saturday. The four-star tight end prospect from Monroe, La., made his announcement during ESPN's broadcast of the Under Armour All-Star game.No surprise there. Edwards' older brother, Eric, was a tight end on the Tigers' 2003 national-championship team, and most considered the younger

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-88373199524618229372008-01-04T11:25:00.000-06:002008-01-04T11:27:37.991-06:00

Kevin got some good shots at the bowl game. Check out the gallery.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-34549699768435588212008-01-04T10:56:00.000-06:002008-01-04T16:42:39.990-06:00

We'll have a more complete story up later and on the print edition, but a few nuggets from today's press conference announcing the Alabama-Clemson game in the Georgia Dome to begin 2008:* The game will be a 7 p.m. (Central time) kickoff on either ABC or ESPN on Saturday, Aug. 30. As with Alabama's game against Florida State in 2007, it's a one-off game, meaning there are no future games between

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-33105059984945212182008-01-03T09:30:00.000-06:002008-01-03T10:06:50.387-06:00

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that West Virginia will name interim coach Bill Stewart as the permanent replacement for Rich Rodriguez. Here's that link.Update: Stewart's hiring is now official. Link.This is important for our purposes because it means we can put the "Nick Saban to West Virginia" rumors to bed. Thank goodness.It's not like I or anyone in this state every really though

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-6874138049136904212008-01-02T00:24:00.000-06:002008-01-02T00:47:38.512-06:00

Here's a note to file away for next season ... I hate to post this and jinx the man, but this is just too cool to wait until the fall. Wedowee's own Zeke Knight, who just finished his junior season at Alabama, is on pace to set the Crimson Tide career record for games played.Knight has played in 41 games in his Alabama career, 11 away from the record of 52 set by former Tide fullback Tarrant

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-66722318278553377642007-12-30T19:11:00.000-06:002007-12-30T19:14:28.895-06:00

This will be the last blog post until at least halftime for two reasons:Number 1: Live blogging is not allowed.Number 2: Anyone who would read this is probably busy watching the game.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-42884607910748243412007-12-30T18:49:00.000-06:002007-12-30T19:11:48.637-06:00

Colorado has one of the cooler mascots around Ralphie IV is a live 1,200-pound female buffalo. According to the media guide, the current mascot was donated to CU by Ted Turner. That's kind of surprising because Turner runs Ted's Montana Grill which includes bison burgers on its menu.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-39604525244985009902007-12-30T18:39:00.000-06:002007-12-30T18:47:57.480-06:00

Cecil Garrison and Anthony Pate brought their families from Lincoln. Pate had planned to come for a while, but Garrison decide to come on Thursday. He and his crew left around 5:30 Saturday, drove until midnight and then got up and came the rest of the way this morning.Pate (who was quoted in my print story this morning) and his family say they like the bowl because of the increased access to the

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-88568073832074456662007-12-30T18:30:00.001-06:002007-12-30T18:38:30.275-06:00

The surprise of the night so far is the number of purple-clad LSU fans. Some of the more impressive tailgating setups are from the Tiger supporters. Walking through the tailgate area, there were about three Alabama fans and two LSU fans for every Colorado fan.I guess if you are an LSU fan in Shreveport you could come to the game just like I'm sure there were a few Bama fans at the PapaJohns.com

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-17777280772940111602007-12-30T18:05:00.000-06:002007-12-30T19:15:41.990-06:00

Nathan Davis, Super Fan

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-72220221521872911062007-12-30T15:21:00.001-06:002007-12-30T15:29:33.766-06:00

I found a better picture of the La. Monroe billboard here at the War Eagle Reader. I saw the board on the way in but in my post I was only able to get a blurry-bigfoot-in-the-woods style shot out the car window. The rest of the site is full of anti-Bama stuff, but I thought I'd include the picture.All right, now it's time for tailgating. -aj

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-42489402095385768792007-12-30T14:49:00.000-06:002007-12-30T15:21:12.993-06:00

I know that I've made a few posts talking bad about Shreveport, but it's really a pretty nice place. We had lunch at the Louisiana Boardwalk which is right on the Red River and is right up there with cities like Chattanooga when it comes to a nice place to walk around and eat or shop. Here are a few more pictures of the boardwalk (which is actually all concrete). Next I'm headed out to the

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-46542776362943821032007-12-30T10:44:00.000-06:002007-12-30T10:46:11.382-06:00

Here is Creg's print story. -aj By Creg StephensonStar Sports Writer 12-30-2007 SHREVEPORT, La. — Finishing the season with a winning record will be the reward for the winner of tonight's Independence Bowl, but just getting here was a near-epic struggle for both Alabama and Colorado.Considering how it played the final month of the regular season, Alabama (6-6) is lucky just to be

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-42042024490623178622007-12-30T10:40:00.000-06:002007-12-30T10:43:59.241-06:00

Here is the print story that ran this morning. -ajBy Andy JohnsStar Staff Writer 12-30-2007 SHREVEPORT, La. — One night earlier this week, Edna Daniels couldn't stand the wait any longer. She was ready to go at midnight, too excited to sleep. She forced herself to sleep a few more hours before getting up at 3 a.m.She wasn't waiting for St. Nick. She was waiting for Coach Nick."We

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-60363283414456746692007-12-30T01:30:00.000-06:002007-12-30T01:40:19.417-06:00

Busy night tonight. We are here at the media hotel. More tomorrow.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-19838184434096336932007-12-29T16:31:00.000-06:002007-12-29T16:44:11.909-06:00

For Alabama, the route to the Independence Bowl both literally and figuratively goes right through Louisiana-Monroe. And the fans in Monroe want Tide fans to remember. Below is a bad picture of a billboard along I-20 in Monroe.It reads “Tide Rolled!” and then the score of Alabama’s loss. If Bama wins that game we’re on the way to Memphis or Nashville or Dallas or Atlanta. I don’t mean to rub it

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-12305548862250969942007-12-29T16:25:00.000-06:002007-12-29T16:31:13.457-06:00

We’ve crossed over the Mississippi River and are now in Louisiana. The part of the state we are in reminds me a lot of South Georgia or South Alabama. Shreveport is a long way from the bayous of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Everything was going smooth until we have run into this traffic jam about 80 miles from Shreveport. While we’re stuck I’ll post some pictures from Louisiana. Below are

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-65696205211460189652007-12-29T13:30:00.001-06:002007-12-29T13:46:15.150-06:00

We’ve crossed over to Mississippi now and stopped for free coffee at the Welcome Center. The parking lot had several cars with Alabama tags and more than a few UA flags, stickers and window paint. One of the tags was from Talladega County and I talked to the driver, who was walking his dog. They were both wearing Alabama shirts—the man and the dog. Anyway they are from Sylacauga and I gave

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-46762961490273149692007-12-29T11:19:00.000-06:002007-12-29T11:40:55.196-06:00

Star photographer Kevin Qualls and I left Anniston about 9:30 this morning. We're through Birmingham and in Tuscaloosa now.Mapquest said the route is around 500 miles and will take almost 8 hours. We're hoping to get to Shreveport in time for the Pep Rally on the Louisiana Boardwalk tonight at 6.From here we stay on I-20 through Mississippi until just before Texas. The map I looked at said

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-26289288667391675652007-12-28T13:47:00.000-06:002007-12-28T14:13:32.697-06:00

The Competition Hog Cooker by Backwoods SmokerIf you're going to the Independence Bowl and want to drop some serious change into your tailgating, help will only be about 15 miles away.I saw an ad for Backwoods Smoker in a barbecue newsletter I get through the Kansas City Barbecue Society. The ad said the smokers run from $785 to $7,434 and are built in Shreveport.When I called Mike McGowan, who

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-11959869540660000612007-12-28T12:55:00.000-06:002007-12-28T12:59:12.228-06:00

From staff reports Updated 11:45 a.m. Star staff writer and certified barbecue judge Andy Johns will be heading to Shreveport, La., Saturday to see Alabama and Colorado square off in the Independence Bowl. He’s looking for tailgaters and fans from northeast Alabama who are making the 500-mile trip. If you are bowl-bound, call him at (256) 310-3222 or e-mail him at ajohns@

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-54254167664446872252007-12-28T00:32:00.000-06:002007-12-28T00:42:02.693-06:00

Here's some helpful hints on watching this video.1. Cut the audio completely off. It's still funny wihout it. Plus, the sound quality is very, very bad, and probably of greater importance there's a couple of words (ones that wouldn't end up in the Anniston Star, but are commonly heard on a football field) used -- I think it's twice.2. Either bear through the first part of it, or either jump ahead

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-14635732434972850232007-12-06T11:11:00.000-06:002007-12-06T11:13:14.770-06:00

The Bama Beat blog now has a poll running about the Independence Bowl. It's over on the right side of the screen a few inches below Creg's lovely mug.Be sure to vote.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-6252595026001375992007-11-17T13:05:00.000-06:002007-11-17T13:06:33.634-06:00

Just released by the UA Media Relations office:The University of Alabama was informed this morning by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that five football student-athletes who have been serving suspensions imposed by the University have had their eligibility reinstated effective at the conclusion of today’s game against the University of Louisiana-Monroe.The five

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-64321195132721459122007-11-01T15:32:00.001-05:002007-11-01T15:33:53.436-05:00

It’s been overlooked given how much the Crimson Tide still has to play for, but the 41-17 victory over Tennessee on Oct. 20 made Alabama bowl-eligible for the fourth consecutive year.Alabama hasn’t played in a bowl game four straight years since 1991-94, the tail end of a 10-year postseason streak for the team. NCAA sanctions kept the Crimson Tide out of the postseason in 1995 and 2002, while

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-27324952553322629642007-11-01T11:47:00.001-05:002007-11-01T11:47:10.881-05:00

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-54270882193693576412007-10-22T13:00:00.000-05:002007-10-22T13:02:48.445-05:00

Just announced by Alabama. CBS will televise.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-4686424882991782882007-10-20T11:20:00.000-05:002007-10-20T11:33:43.726-05:00

TUSCALOOSA --- Five Alabama football players, including All-SEC offensive lineman Antoine Caldwell and starting tailback Glen Coffee, were suspended for today’s game with Tennessee due to what has been termed “violation of institutional policy involving impermissable receipt of textbooks.”Also suspended were starting offensive guard Marlon Davis and reserve defensive backs Marquis Johnson and

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-51421166374575005092007-10-18T00:35:00.000-05:002007-10-18T00:39:53.694-05:00

Did a little historical stat research for my Javier Arenas story that ran in Thursday's paper, and I uncovered a stat that bears watching the rest of the year ... At his current pace, Arenas' 16.06-yard punt return average would be the fourth highest in school history among players with 15 or more punt returns in a season. He would also be one of 10 players in school history to average 12-plus

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-32996930142072041282007-10-13T11:18:00.000-05:002007-10-13T11:21:11.470-05:00

One quick update some 20 minutes before kickoff of Alabama vs. Ole Miss:Senior left guard Justin Britt did not make the trip on Saturday, instead staying with his family in Birmingham, where his mother Vera continues to recover from a serious head injury suffered in the hours after the Crimson Tide's game with Houston last Saturday.For those of you who haven't heard the story, Britt's hometown

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-18982583925946985692007-10-13T11:12:00.000-05:002007-10-13T11:14:08.203-05:00

The long-awaited Hoover High School Board of Education report on alleged academic fraud in the Hoover football program was released on Saturday by The Birmingham News, but did not implicate Alabama in any wrongdoing.Alabama freshman defensive tackle Josh Chapman --- identified as “Student No. 1” in the report, had his Algebra II grade changed from an 89 to 90 over the summer, thus making his

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-34955936358257168732007-10-06T13:45:00.000-05:002007-10-06T13:52:00.166-05:00

A few notable changes to Alabama's starting lineup for today's game with Houston, at least according to the pre-game notes and player introductions on the Jumbotron:* Antoine Caldwell will shift from center to right guard, with Evan Cardwell sliding in at center. Regular right guard Marlon Davis missed two days of practice this week due to a death in the family, but Caldwell has also has had

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-31994716876015099202007-10-02T18:44:00.000-05:002007-10-02T19:00:55.556-05:00

A somewhat innocuous question to Alabama coach Nick Saban in his Monday press conference has set off a war of words regarding one of college football's most contentious issues.Saban singled out South Florida, undefeated and ranked No. 6 in the country this week, as one example of schools who are able to take advantage of looser admissions policies within their conferences. The Bulls' starting

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-36843185103963451832007-09-29T15:27:00.000-05:002007-09-29T15:40:26.415-05:00

Two quick notes some 20 minutes before kickoff of Alabama-FSU:* Jacksonville Municipal Stadium is in the heart of an area called the Jacksonville Sports Complex, which also houses the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville (home of the Southern League's Suns, the L.A. Dodgers' Double-A affiliate) and Jacksonville Memorial Coliseum (which currently has no pro sports tenant since the ECHL's Lizard Kings

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-31082064139373313252007-09-29T15:09:00.000-05:002007-09-29T15:26:01.554-05:00

It's such an easy observation to make, that it's barely worth noting. But because it's such an easy observation to make, I'd be derelict in my duty as a reporter if I didn't make not of it.What exactly am I talking about? The city of Jacksonville is being visited by not only the Crimson Tide this weekend, but by a red tide.Those of you who didn't grow up in coastal communities have probably never

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-81500187851260481052007-09-21T09:31:00.000-05:002007-09-21T09:39:07.899-05:00

Alabama fans have embraced the power of the Internet once again, with Matt Caddell's game-winning touchdown catch earning the "Pontiac Game-Changing Performance of the Week" through voting on ESPN.com.Winning the weekly award earns Alabama $5,000 for its general scholarship fund and makes the school eligible for the $100,000 Pontiac Game-Changing Performance of the Year award at the end of the

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-32247718883783976872007-09-18T14:46:00.000-05:002007-09-18T15:12:24.393-05:00

Things got a little chippy during Nick Saban's Monday press conference when an Atlanta reporter asked a question about the recent NFL videotaping scandal involving Patriots coach (and Saban mentor) Bill Belichick. The reporter mentioned that Saban had been accused of something similar while head coach of the Miami Dolphins last season.Saban didn't take too kindly to that. The following is an

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-19957737083433027142007-09-18T09:59:00.000-05:002007-09-18T10:37:08.465-05:00

A few more notes about Alabama's 41-38 win over Arkansas before we move on to talking about Georgia ... * How good was Darren McFadden's 195-yard performance against the Crimson Tide on Saturday? It was the best individual yardage total for an Alabama opponent since Auburn's Carnell Williams rushed for 204 yards in the 2003 Iron Bowl in Auburn.Arkansas' Cedric Cobbs also rushed for 198 yards

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-54485360023138244052007-09-17T13:20:00.001-05:002007-09-17T13:21:56.056-05:00

Be sure to check out our gallery.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-34720476378202285072007-09-11T13:08:00.001-05:002007-09-11T15:48:31.070-05:00

In his Monday press conference, Alabama football coach Nick Saban was asked about how the fact that Arkansas is coming off a bye week might affect Saturday's game between the Crimson Tide and Razorbacks. Saban pointed out (as several others, including myself have also done) that Arkansas is in fact one of five teams that will be coming off bye weeks when it faces the Crimson Tide this season (

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-4337252073900044222007-09-11T12:07:00.000-05:002007-09-11T12:30:03.119-05:00

CBS has decided to take the dreaded six-day selection exemption before deciding which game it will broadcast on Sept. 22. The two games under consideration are Alabama-Georgia and LSU-South Carolina, with the announcement to be made Sunday.It seems that CBS is waiting to see if Alabama beats Arkansas before it decides to show Alabama-Georgia. If the Crimson Tide loses, then CBS would probably

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-12336180986402682232007-09-08T10:54:00.000-05:002007-09-08T11:21:13.859-05:00

A few quick things as I sit here some 35 minutes before kickoff of Alabama-Vanderbilt ... * For those of you who haven't been here, Vanderbilt Stadium has a very small-college feel, similar to Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile or Independence Stadium in Shreveport. The stadium is starting to fill in and it's a literal sea of red and white, though there is some black and gold sprinkled throughout.

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-36120261325484423572007-09-04T17:24:00.000-05:002007-09-04T19:44:18.668-05:00

By Creg StephensonStar Sports WriterTUSCALOOSA --- Alabama linebacker Zach Schreiber has left the team with intentions to transfer, coach Nick Saban announced Tuesday.Schreiber, a sophomore from Shreveport, La., played briefly in Saturday’s season-opener against Western Carolina on Saturday, but did not record a tackle. He was listed as the back-up to junior Zeke Knight at outside linebacker.“

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-70677577437560476982007-09-04T14:14:00.000-05:002007-09-04T14:16:11.280-05:00

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, it's being discussed for next season's opener ... Alabama has an open date for 2008 because it called off a game with UTEP in order to avoid any Mike Price storylines ...

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-74260835685728372072007-09-03T21:50:00.000-05:002007-09-03T21:53:14.382-05:00

A few quick notes from Monday's Alabama football press conference that didn't make the print edition due to space considerations ...SIX RECOGNIZED: Alabama’s coaching staff honored six players for their performances against Western Carolina on Saturday.Center Antoine Caldwell and running back Terry Grant were named offensive players of the week after the Crimson Tide rang up 575 total yards and a

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-51835640763462120822007-09-03T16:07:00.000-05:002007-09-03T16:08:55.357-05:00

TUSCALOOSA --- Word of Appalachian State’s stunning upset victory at Michigan spread quickly throughout the college football world on Saturday, and the Alabama locker-room was no exception. The Mountaineers’ victory over the Wolverines might have carried special poignancy for the Crimson Tide heading into its season opener against Western Carolina, given that Appalachian State and WCU both

Bran D. Stricklandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17743243375135215547noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-44038278989987416252007-09-02T11:47:00.001-05:002007-09-02T11:54:04.162-05:00

We got 63 photos into the Alabama photo gallery click the image above or click here to check out the gallery.We also have galleries for JSU, Auburn and high school.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-73638176422856928432007-09-01T19:38:00.001-05:002007-09-01T22:28:32.845-05:00

Game over. Alabama wins 52 to 6. More later.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-75879542550433716012007-09-01T18:31:00.000-05:002007-09-01T18:33:33.999-05:00

The game has started and I'm not allowed to give posts during the game. Stay tuned to Anniston Star.com for more coverage. I'll try to get something up here as soon as the game is over. We'll also have a photo gallery on the web late tonight or early tomorrow.-Andy

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-65429846364902674992007-09-01T17:08:00.001-05:002007-09-01T17:15:07.175-05:00

I saw plenty of Saban-related shirts today. One of them said "Saban's here. Grab a beer." There was also one that said "Got Nick?" like the "Got Milk?" shirts. Here are a couple of others.

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-69957209421486349062007-09-01T16:07:00.000-05:002007-09-01T16:14:58.541-05:00

Inside the stadium now.At 4:05 the student section began cheering. I wasn't sure what they were cheering about until Creg pointed out the gray suited figure walking down the field.Nick Saban was escorted by two Alabama State Troopers as he walked around the turf. I don't know why or what he was doing, but the crowd liked it. They cheered until he went back into the tunnel.His wife walked onto the

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-41302419484561345072007-09-01T15:16:00.000-05:002007-09-01T16:30:58.046-05:00

When Appalachian State blocked Michigan's field goal the mass of people that had gathered 'round the tailgaters' televisions erupted.The reaction made me realize just how many televisions and satellites there were in the quad.And these are nice TVs too.These people have televisions in this field that are nicer than the one in my living room.I can remember when it was cool to tailgate with a tiny

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-32321875713864417212007-09-01T14:29:00.000-05:002007-09-01T14:32:41.488-05:00

Michigan just scored a touchdown to pull ahead and all of the tailgaters here groaned. I don't think many people care about Appalachian State, but they probably all want Michigan to lose to help Alabama's chances of moving into the top 25.-Andy

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-84918276244609218602007-09-01T14:12:00.000-05:002007-09-01T19:25:12.879-05:00

Creg and I got to Tuscaloosa about 45 minutes ago. We've already seen plenty to blog about.Here's a picture of one of the nicest tailgate tents I've ever seen.Mostly everyone seems to be throwing football and watching the Michigan--App State Game, hoping that Michigan loses. Appalachian State is leading with 12 minutes to go.We've seen a dog in a jersey and the Bear twins, but I couldn't get to

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-29934934077599102152007-09-01T13:28:00.000-05:002007-09-01T18:34:59.299-05:00

By Andy JohnsStar Staff Writer 09-01-2007 Alabama freshman Garner Mills of Mobile looks at the week-old Nick Saban exhibit at the Paul W. Bryant Museum in Tuscaloosa. Photo: Andy Johns/The Anniston Star TUSCALOOSA — Rib smokers at Dreamland Bar-B-Que have been through their share of football games, but even the veterans admitted Friday to not knowing what to expect

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-69170105659051549672007-08-29T12:29:00.000-05:002007-08-29T12:37:25.998-05:00

A fractured ankle suffered by Alabama nose tackle Brian Motley in Tuesday afternoon's practice is not only a bad break --- literally --- for the redshirt freshman, but could also have major repercussions for the Crimson Tide defense this season.Motley is expected to miss 6-8 weeks with the injury, which will basically sideline him for the season. Even if he returns on the front end of that

Creg Stephensonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-55315140376151554952007-08-29T10:12:00.000-05:002007-08-29T10:05:32.228-05:00

By Creg StephensonStar Sports Writer 08-29-2007 Terry Grant, right, is drawing raves from his teammates and coaches alike this fall. Photo: Trent Penny/The Anniston Star/file TUSCALOOSA — When Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson retreats to hand off against Western Carolina on Saturday, it's likely he'll be stuffing the ball into the gut of a former

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-51269105088772673462007-08-29T10:03:00.000-05:002007-08-29T10:04:06.080-05:00

From staff, wire reports 08-26-2007 TUSCALOOSA — Alabama finally released its final football roster on Saturday, a list that includes 20 players who joined the team for practice on Wednesday.Among those listed are several holdover walk-ons, including defensive back Trent Dean (who doubled as the scout-team quarterback in 2006), kicker Andrew Friedman and punter Heath Thomas. Also

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-79100305809759348922007-08-29T10:02:00.000-05:002007-08-29T10:03:19.040-05:00

By Creg StephensonStar Sports Writer 08-26-2007 Leigh Tiffin (31) bounced back from a nightmarish game against Arkansas last season to win the starting kicking job at Alabama this fall. Photo: Kevin Qualls/The Anniston Star/file TUSCALOOSA — Every player on the Alabama football roster has been promised a clean slate under first-year head coach Nick Saban, and there

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882792583081544572.post-60958858188487804242007-08-29T10:01:00.001-05:002007-08-29T10:01:49.198-05:00

By Creg StephensonStar Sports Writer 08-28-2007 TUSCALOOSA — Alabama senior cornerback Simeon Castille pleaded not guilty Monday to a disorderly conduct charge stemming from his arrest earlier this month.Castille was not present at Tuscaloosa municipal court for the plea, which was entered by his attorney. His court date was set for Sept. 26.Castille spoke to reporters on Monday, but

Andy Johns, mobile reporternoreply@blogger.com0