Bama in the News

January 8 - 14, 2010

• No. 18 Men's Tennis Wins Five Matches at UNLV Invitational on Friday • RollTide.com
The 18th-ranked men's tennis team opened play at the UNLV Invitational Friday where it picked up five wins against opponents from No. 20 Louisville. Two of the Crimson Tide's victories came in sing... 

• Saban doesn't like seeing assistants move laterally • Tuscaloosa News
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. | Nick Saban understands that a successful football program breeds opportunity for assistant coaches, but he doesn't want the University of Alabama losing staff members to just any job.

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama merchandise sales

• Gentry Estes: Alabama's wait begins for official word from two NFL draft-eligible juniors • The Press Register
From the sounds of it, even Nick Saban will advise Rolando McClain to consider leaving early for the draft, but probably not Kareem Jackson.

• Eager Tide fans await champions' arrival in Tuscaloosa • The Birmingham News
Crimson Tide flying in from BCS Championship Game in Pasadena. 

• Jon Solomon: Alabama-Texas is highest BCS championship rating since '06 • The Birmingham News
Birmingham draws best rating in U.S.

• Josh Bean: Recruiting: Will Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley pick Alabama or Auburn? • The Press Register
MOBILE, Ala. -- With the BCS national championship secured, Alabama fans can turn their attention to recruiting. And Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley -- the state's top uncommitted prospect -- will make his decision public Saturday.

• Gentry Estes: Recruit Blake Sims reportedly decommits from Alabama • The Press Register
Long-time Alabama commitment Blake Sims is now looking elsewhere, according to online reports.

• Gentry Estes: Crimson Tide stars fought through various ailments to capture national title • The Press Register
Alabama's star quarterback, running back and linebacker all were dealing with various health problems leading up to last night's BCS victory over Texas.

• Colt McCoy's official diagnosis: pinched nerve • The Press Register
It was a pinched nerve in his right shoulder that took Colt McCoy out of the national championship game Thursday night after tackled by an Alabama defensive end, a Longhorns spokesman said today.

• 4 o'clock fodder: Saban confesses to being a chronic leg-shaker • The Press Register
PASADENA, Calif. -- University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban this morning opened his news conference with a plea to speak off the record. What did he want to tell in secret to a room full of reporters with cameras and recorders going?

• Dennis Pillion: One-Minute Madness: 2010 BCS Championship recap • al.com
Sports writers Don Kausler, Jr. and Kevin Scarbinsky from The Birmingham News on Alabama's 37-21 victory over the Texas Longhorns in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game. They pick out the key moments and performances of the game, including Marcell Dareus, Rolando McClain, Trent Richardson, Greg McElroy and more. One-Minute Madness: 2010 BCS Championship recap

• AJC Top 50 list reveals best of best in Georgia • AJC
Ladies and gentlemen, the list you have all been waiting for is finally here.

• Tiger Histalmos: BCS National Title: Alabama Cements SEC Dominance of College Football • Bleacher Report
As Alabama clinched it's first national title since 1992, the college football world should have felt a big shock wave across the land.

• Saban at the BCS Trophy presentation • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are Nick Saban's comments at today's BCS Trophy presentation. 

• Tide loses commitment  • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama finds itself with one less commitment on Friday afternoon as Gainesville four-star Blake Sims has decommitted from the Crimson Tide. 

• Andy Staples: You would have loved tonight, mom -- Your Tide finally won • SI
PASADENA, Calif. -- Dear Mom,

• Obama congratulates Saban on national title win • Tuscaloosa News
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. | After accepting four different national championship trophies Friday morning at a press conference, University of Alabama head football coach Nick Saban took a congratulatory phone call from President Barack Obama.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/8 Trophy Presentation

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/8 Nick Saban Press Conference 

• Nick Saban Press Conferences • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban Friday morning Nick Saban Friday morning
Nick Saban addresses the media the morning following the BCS National Championship victory.

• Dennis Pillion: One-Minute Madness: 2010 BCS Championship recap • al.com
Sports writers Don Kausler, Jr. and Kevin Scarbinsky from The Birmingham News on Alabama's 37-21 victory over the Texas Longhorns in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game. They pick out the key moments and performances of the game, including Marcell Dareus, Rolando McClain, Trent Richardson, Greg McElroy and more. One-Minute Madness: 2010 BCS Championship recap

• Gentry Estes: Nick Saban wants UA's assistants to move up, not sideways • The Press Register
Saban discourages lateral assistant moves -- which have plagued his staff the past two years -- as UGA still has an eye on Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart. 

• Nick Saban: It was the intensity of the Gatorade bath that was the problem (with video) • The Press Register
"Our defensive players did a pretty good job of hitting, but they're not supposed to hit you in the head with the bucket, either," Nick Saban said.

• Alabama Crimson Tide wins 2009 Grantland Rice Trophy • The Press Register
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- Following its 37-21 win over Texas in the Citi BCS National Championship Game, the Alabama Crimson Tide was presented the 2009 Grantland Rice Trophy by the Football Writers Association of America.

• Gentry Estes: Officials will meet Monday to map out UA's celebration plans • The Press Register
UA will hold a formal celebration -- if not an actual parade -- in Tuscaloosa, while Nick Saban's statue has been green-lighted and could be finished by the start of the 2010 season.

• Chris Pow: Video: Nick Saban trophy presentation press conference • al.com
Watch Alabama football coach Nick Saban talk to reporters one last time in Newport Beach, California the morning after his Crimson Tide won the national championship. 

• Don Kausler Jr.: A statue of Saban? Here's what the coach has to say about it • The Birmingham News
"We are under way with some plans on that," Alabama athletics director Mal Moore says. Saban says, "You would hope something you do leaves a mark."

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Will Saban make time for a White House trip? • The Birmingham News
He's been there before with LSU's 2003 champions.

• Marcell Dareus Named MVP Of BCS Championship Game • Bleacher Report
In one hit, Marcell Dareus turned a really tough game for 'Bama into an all-but-done deal. And though it would be ill-advised to hand someone the MVP for terminating the college career of the opposing QB...Oh, wait, they DID give him the MVP. 

• BCS National Championship: Alabama's Fitting End to a Perfect Season • Bleacher Report
In the midst of Thursday night’s truly bizarre national championship game, with Alabama ahead late, my buddy Matt sent me a text that summed up what he, I and millions of others were watching, about as well as anyone could. It read: 

• Nick Mordowanec: What Did We Learn from the Alabama-Texas Championship Game? • Bleacher Report
Another college football season has come and gone. So what have we learned?

• PHOTO GALLERY: National Champions • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama Crimson Tide brought home its 13th National Championship on Thursday night with a 37-21 win over the Texas Longhorns.

• Pat Forde: Saban's trademark plays key Bama's win • Crimson Confidential
PASADENA, Calif. -- Nick Saban's rise to the top of the college football world has been built one thunderous tackle at a time. The wins have kept coming because the hits have kept coming, whether Saban was coaching in Baton Rouge or Tuscaloosa. 

• Top Ten things Nick Saban might have muttered after getting his first Gatorade bath as Alabama’s coach • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Alabama got its first national championship in 17 years yesterday. Nick Saban, meanwhile, got his first celebratory Gatorade bath as the Alabama head coach.

• Saban returns Alabama to the top • Crimson Confidential
PASADENA, Calif. -- Texas played without its best player for nearly 56 minutes. There's an asterisk.

• Alabama Men's Basketball Opens Up SEC Play at LSU • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama men's basketball team opens up Southeastern Conference play on Saturday afternoon at defending SEC champion LSU. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. with the game being broadca... 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/7 Ingram and Darius Postgame Press Conference

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Nick Saban BCS Championship postgame

• Chase Goodbread: Good Tidings • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Saban statue ready? (with Mal Moore video) Saban statue ready? (with Mal Moore video)
Director of Athletics Mal Moore was asked if he would want Saban’s statue erected immediately. He's ready to honor the coach asap. 

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama locker room Part I Alabama locker room Part I
Exclusive access to the Alabama locker room following the BCS National Championship win. This video features Rolondo McClain, Colin Peek, and Greg McElroy.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: President Obama calls to congratulate Nick Saban • The Birmingham News
No doubt a trip for the team to the White House will be in the works.

• Gentry Estes: Barack Obama calls to congratulate Alabama's Nick Saban • The Press Register
Saban receives four national championship trophies on behalf of Alabama's team and then takes a call from the White House.

• Don Kausler Jr.: President Obama calls to congratulate Nick Saban • The Birmingham News
Call comes after Alabama coach meets with the news media to talk about Thursday's 37-21 victory over Texas for the national championship.

• Matt Cuthbert: Enthusiasm keeps on rolling after Crimson Tide's National Championship win • al.com
There's plenty to talk about on the day after Alabama's win over Texas in the 2010 BCS National Championship game, and football fans on al.com have kept their comments pouring in. Here's what they've been saying...

• With Ingram named BCS title game MVP, interest renewed in his father's arrest • The Press Register
Mark Ingram Jr.'s Heisman win and BCS title game performance has rekindled interest in his father's arrest. The Flint, Mich. Journal reports thousands of hits from across the country on its January 2009 report on Ingram Sr.'s arrest.

• Book celebrating Alabama Crimson Tide's championship season on sale now • The Birmingham News
Perfection! will be available Jan. 13.

• Gentry Estes: Friday Morning QB: Alabama 37, Texas 21 • The Press Register
The Bama Beat blog brings you its final weekly rundown as a magical season ends in national title No. 13 for the Crimson Tide

• Matt Cuthbert: Crimson Tide Free for All forum is indeed that after National Championship win • al.com
We're continuing to dig through the comments in forums and articles related to Alabama winning the BCS National Championship to pull out highlights. Here are a few quotes from visitors to the Crimson Tide Free for All forum.

• More BCS photos • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are more scenes from the Tide's win over Texas.

• INSTANT ANALYSIS: No. 13 • BamaOnLine
PASADENA, Calif. -- No. 13 is in the books and BOL staffers Travis Reier and Chris Walsh were on hand to witness history. 

• Incredible... • Bama Sports Report
Wow.
As I type this, I'm flying at 569 miles per hour somewhere over El Paso, watching Nick Saban's live press conference. And, I'm on the internet. To paraphrase Patton Oswalt, it's a miracle, and no one cares.

• Moore ready to erect Saban's statue along walk of champions • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | University of Alabama coach Nick Saban isn't the self-aggrandizing type, but with the Crimson Tide's 13th national championship secured with a 37-21 win over Texas in the BCS National Championship Game, he might have to step in to prevent from being aggrandized elsewhere.

• Football:
Alabama 37, Texas 21 - box score

• SEC Scores:
BCS Championship Game: Alabama 37, Texas 21

• Alabama Football Wins National Championship No. 13, Beating Texas, 37-21 • RollTide.com
The No. 1 ranked Alabama football team beat No. 2 Texas in the BCS National Championship game, played in the Rose Bowl Thursday, 37-21, winning the 13th national title in school history and first s... 

• Alabama back on top with 13th national title • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | It was a BCS National Championship Game that turned into a classic — even if the University of Alabama would have preferred otherwise.

• Alabama dumps Texas for 13th national championship • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | Mark Ingram bulldozed his way into the end zone with a second-effort push with just more than two minutes showing on the clock at Rose Bowl Stadium on Thursday night, fell to his knees and beat his chest with his fists.

• Dareus secures his spot in Crimson Tide lore • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | Move over, Terrence Cody. Time to make room for Marcell Dareus on the Alabama Mount Rushmore of “Did you see that?” plays.

• Tide offense sputters, but comes through in the end • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | The best way to defend a Heisman Trophy winner? Keeping him off the field isn’t a bad idea.

• Longhorns a threat even without McCoy • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | Even as senior quarterback Colt McCoy stood on the sideline with an injured right shoulder, the Texas Longhorns refused to back down in the second half against the top-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide.

• Despite bing ill, McClain makes impact • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | Rolando McClain is not one to bellyache, even when he's weakened by a stomach virus. 

• Title town celebrate • Tuscaloosa News
A grown man's eyes filled with tears of joy as he silently watched the television in awe, a half-empty beer in one hand and a lit cigar between two fingers in the other.

• NOTEBOOK: Jackson's NFL decision coming soon • Tuscaloosa News
PASADENA, Calif. | Alabama defensive back Kareem Jackson will likely decide his future regarding the National Football League within three days of his return to Tuscaloosa from the BCS National Championship Game, according to a source close to the situation.

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Tuscaloosa fans

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS Pregame

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS, First half

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS National Championship Celebration

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
National Championship

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Nick Saban BCS Championship postgame

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
FAN CAM: Bryant Conference Center

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS Celebration in Tuscaloosa: Part 1

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS Celebration in Tuscaloosa (Part2)

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Sights and Sounds: Rose Bowl

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Team arrives at the Rose Bowl

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Tide fans in Tuscaloosa, Pregame

• Cecil Hurt: Saban deserves credit as Alabama earns national title • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
There was a point on Thursday night when it appeared the 2009 BCS Championship might come easily for the University of Alabama. 

• Chase Goodbread: Good Tidings • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Good Tidings’ live Rose Bowl blog Good Tidings’ live Rose Bowl blog
Check out Good Tidings' live blog from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. 

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: ESPN’s Trevor Matich Interview: ESPN’s Trevor Matich
Rachel catches up with ESPN college football analyst Trevor Matich prior to the BCS Championship Game in Pasadena.

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Parking lots filled with intensity before the game (w/ video) Parking lots filled with intensity before the game (w/ video)
While there was certainly plenty of revelry going on throughout the tailgate, a tense feeling hung over the various lots as the droves lined up to get inside of Rose Bowl Stadium.

• Video Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: ESPN’s Rece Davis Interview: ESPN’s Rece Davis
Rachel speaks with host of ESPN's College Football Live, and former University of Alabama graduate Rece Davis prior to the BCS Championship Game. 

• Nick Saban Press Conferences • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban postgame BCS Championship press conference Nick Saban postgame BCS Championship press conference
Alabama head coach Nick Saban addresses the media following Alabama's 37-21 victory over Texas for the BCS National Championship.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: 2-minute drill: Defense and running game run the show • The Birmingham News
WHY ALABAMA WON 

• Mark McCarter: Thanks to Saban, greatness is back • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - Buy into the program if you're a player. Buy a big-money coach if you're the director of athletics. 

• ABC's game coverage much better than Fox • The Huntsville Times
Good riddance, Fox. ABC demonstrated Thursday night why college football's national championship game finds itself in better hands with Walt Disney than Rupert Murdoch.

• DAREUS STANDSTALL • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - Write it down.

• Early big plays enough to derail Longhorns defense • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - The situation begged for Texas' defense to live up to the lofty reputation it had built during the first 13 games of a dream season. 

• Alabama 37, Texas 21 • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - This was the heavyweight matchup, the supreme battle that was supposed to settle the national championship. 

• Tide recipe works again: Defense wins championships • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - This is the way Alabama wins a national championship. This is the way Alabama has always won national championships.

• Saban • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - A soaked Alabama coach Nick Saban wore a jacket as he held a coveted crystal football above his head Thursday night. 

• CFN says: McCoy's injury leaves cloud over Bama's win ... what do you think? • The Press Register
College Football News says: It's not fair to assume that Texas wins this game if McCoy doesn't get hurt, but it's going to be hard to ever think about this national title game without thinking about McCoy and how Texas was hamstrung. What do you think? Tell us in this online poll.

• How others see Alabama 37, Texas 21 • The Birmingham News
Read all about it.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Marcell Dareus scratches stardom's surface, then shatters it • The Birmingham News
Birmingham sophomore named defensive MVP of BCS Championship Game.

• Matt Cuthbert: What the fans are saying about Alabama's National Championship win • al.com
We're digging through the comments in forums and articles related to Alabama winning the BCS National Championship to pull out a few highlights. Want to chime in on a particular topic? Just jump into the comments section of its respective story. Here are a few topics that have already got conversations rolling...

• Mark Inabinett: SEC Football by the Numbers: Alabama becomes conference's first 14-win team • al.com
Alabama's victory over Texas in the BCS national championship game put the Crimson Tide atop the final coaches poll for the sixth time.

• Jon Solomon: Hot Corner: A tough call, but the wise one on Colt McCoy • The Birmingham News
Texas quarterback's future was on the line after injury vs. Alabama.

• Jess Nicholas: BCSCG wrap-up: Old-school win caps off perhaps the best UA season ever • TideFans
Over the next few weeks, debate will rage over Alabama’s win against Texas in the BCS Championship Game. Much of that debate will revolve around the topic of Texas QB Colt McCoy’s shoulder injury on...

• SEC Lands 5 Freshman All-America • SEC Sports
Five SEC Freshman Have Been Honored As Freshman All-Americans By The Football Writers Association Of America. 

• Alabama wins 13th national championship • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- The confetti rained down in historic Rose Bowl Stadium on Thursday, showering the Alabama Crimson Tide with national championship glory.

• Photos: • Montgomery Advertiser
BCS Game Action 1

• Photos: • Montgomery Advertiser
BCS Game Action 2

• Photos: • Montgomery Advertiser
BCS Pregame 2

• Photos: • Montgomery Advertiser
BCS pregame

• Pasadena paradise: Tide holds off Texas to claim BCS title • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- Eight is enough. Alabama ended its eight-game winless streak to Texas and capped an historic season by edging the Lornhorns 37-21 in the BCS national championship game on Thursday night at Rose Bowl Stadium.

• Josh Moon: Tide earns way to top • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- It wasn't a thing of beauty. It wasn't a game that anyone not wearing crimson will look back on with great fondness.

• Dareus' day: DE's first-half plays set Tide's tone • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- In a night of big plays for the Alabama defense, the two biggest might have come from Marcell Dareus.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Ingram's mom cherishes moment • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- The BCS national championship game is a lot more fun than a Heisman Trophy ceremony, at least to Mark Ingram's mother.

• ALABAMA REPORT CARD • Montgomery Advertiser
RUSHING OFFENSE A

• INSIDE THE TIDE • Montgomery Advertiser
THUMBS UP

• BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: Which team gained the most in title game? • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- It was the BCS title game that turned into a football ink blot test.

• WORTH EVERY PENNY: Alabama's investment in Saban pays off big time • Montgomery Advertiser
Pardon the smirks in Alabama.

• Process complete • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. — Soaked in red Gatorade, Nick Saban was ready to crack a smile. By late Thursday night, he was having finally some fun. Taking advantage of a devastating injury to

• To win titles run the ball, play defense • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. — No. 13 didn’t come easy. For a while, it looked like it would. For a while, Alabama …

• Saban wins another BCS title, this one with Tide • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. — Hold off on the houndstooth hat. Put the genius label on another coach. But pay Nick Saban …

• New BCS director says system is best for schools • Decatur Daily
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — The new BCS executive director officially began his tenure Thursday by saying the often-criticized postseason represents a consensus among the 120 schools that play …

• Richardson a talented freshman • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. — Alabama running back Trent Richardson made Nick Saban look like a genius in the second quarter of the BCS National Championship game against Texas. Some might wonder why … 

• Tide fans across the state celebrate • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — A national football championship finally at hand after the BCS title game got uncomfortably close at the end, Alabama fans lit victory cigars and chanted “Roll Tide!” as the … 

• Alabama wins national championship • Dothan Eagle
PASADENA, Calif. — “Finish.” The mantra that drove Alabama through last spring, through summer camp and through a perfect season echoed fully when the Crimson Tide needed to make plays in the BCS National Championship Game. 

• Dareus shines on the big stage • Dothan Eagle
PASADENA, Calif. — Marcell Dareus threw a pass only a backup Texas quarterback could love, but it wasn’t as bad as the one he’d picked off moments before.

• Jon Johnson: High Tide in Pasadena • Dothan Eagle
PASADENA, Calif. — It looked to be unbelievably over by halftime.

• Alabama notes: Anders lays the big hit • Dothan Eagle
Big hit

• Alabama is #1 • College Football News
The following is a live journal composed during the Citi BCS National Championship Game between Texas and Alabama. All times listed are Pacific Standard Time. 

• SEC Bloggers: Do Over • College Football News
Now that the season is over, and the Southeastern Conference has claimed its fourth consecutive National Championship, seemingly like a birthright, CFN's SEC Bloggers look back and review their preseason picks 

• Instant Analysis - Bama Wins The BCS Title • College Football News
It was cruel, occasionally ugly, slightly controversial, and very interesting. It was the 2010 BCS Championship, and Alabama came through with the win. But the storyline was Colt McCoy's injured shoulder that changed the game early on. The CFN writers give their thoughts on the Tide's big moment. 

• 2010 BCS Champ. Stream-of-Conciousness Notes • College Football News
A quarter-by-quarter, play-by-play look at the 2010 BCS Championship - Texas vs. Alabama

• 2009 AP Poll, Final • College Football News
The weekly poll and ranking from the 2009 AP Top 25 Poll

• Tony Barnhart: Alabama championship fueled by 2008 disappointment • AJC
Pasadena, Calif.–There is no way to measure how devastated Alabama was in December of 2008. The Crimson Tide, who had not won a national championship since 1992, were 12-0, ranked No. 1, and had a shot at a national title in their sights.

• Walter Kirkwood: Order Has Been Restored to Crimson Tide Universe • Bleacher Report
I can already hear it now: Alabama was lucky. Alabama would have been killed if Colt McCoy hadn't gotten hurt. Such is often the cry of losers but in this case there could be some truth to it...

• Battle Winners: A BCS National Championship Game Breakdown • Bleacher Report
Right, we all know that Alabama won the National Championship. Nick Saban may be the devil, but he can win football games. And as the Drive By Truckers say: "There's nothing more popular than football games and men that know how to win them."

• Texas-Alabama: Bad Break for Longhorns, But Don't Diminish the Crimson Tide • Bleacher Report
As I watched Texas quarterback Colt McCoy run off the field only five plays into the BCS title game, right arm hanging limply at his side, I remember thinking, "Uh oh, this is going to be a blowout."

• Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer, You Win It All, Alabama • Bleacher Report
Well done, the University of Alabama. You won it all.

• Scotty Kimberly: Alabama Defeats Texas 37-21 To Win BCS Championship: Did the BCS Get It Right? • Bleacher Report
For all the controversy and all the complaints, the college football nation should find solace in one thing: for at least this season, the BCS got it right.

• Tide claims number 13! • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's storied football program claimed national championship number 13 on Thursday night with a 37-21 win over Texas in the Citi BSC National Championship game held in the Rose Bowl. The last time Alabama won a national title was in 1992 when the Tide beat Miami in the Sugar Bowl. The win ends a losing streak to Texas. Alabama now has a 1-7-1 record all-time against the Longhorns.

• BCS photos • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are scenes from the Tide's win over Texas.

• Alabama post-game comments • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are comments from Alabama head coach Nick Saban, running back Mark Ingram and defensive end Marcell Dareus following the Tide's BCS National Championship game win over Texas on Thursday night. Ingram, who rushed for 116 yards and scored two touchdowns, was named the game's offensive player of the game. Dareus, who returned an interception 28 yards for a score, was the defensive player of the game.

• Texas post-game comments • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are post-game comments from Texas head coach Mack Brown, defensive end Sergio Kindle and wide receiver Jordan Shipley following the Longhorns 37-21 loss to Alabama in the BCS Championship Game on Thursday night. 

• NATIONAL CHAMPIONS! • 'BamaMag
It was the perfect storm as Alabama returned to the throne room as king of college football Thursday night. How good was it? Bama winning in the Rose Bowl, led by its Heisman Trophy winner, and finally defeating fellow football blueblood Texas. The Crimson Tide won its 13th national championship with an all-time best 14-0 record. 

• VIDEO: Celebrating the National Championship! • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Courtney Upshaw, Lorenzo Washington, and the Tide team on the field after the game.

• Greg McElroy: National Champ! (VIDEO) • 'BamaMag
Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy is a national champion.

• VIDEO: National Champ Mark Ingram and his mom • 'BamaMag
Mark Ingram shares a moment with his mom on the field after the game.

• The Beast Has A Big Game • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
A few days before the Bowl Championship Series National Championship Game, Marcell Dareus shared his philosophy on playing against a good quarterback. Thursday night, Dareus more than demonstrated that philosophy.

• Notes From Tide BCS Title Win • 'BamaMag
Much was made of the fact that Alabama had never defeated Texas going into Thursday night’s Bowl Championship Series National Championship Game. The Crimson Tide had a 0-7-1 record against the Longhorns. But five years ago, Texas came into the BCS game against Southern Cal, a team the Longhorns had not defeated in four meetings, and won that game in the Rose Bowl Stadium. 

• VIDEO: Eryk Anders and Marcel Dareus on Field • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Alabama defensive lineman Marcell Dareus and defensive end Eryk Anders both played huge roles in Alabama's 37-21 win over Texas Thursday in Pasadena.

• Champions! • BamaOnLine
The University of Alabama won its 13th national championship, and first since 1992, with an unusual 37-21 victory over Texas at the Rose Bowl on Thursday night.

• Early enrollees set to arrive at Capstone • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The University of Alabama football program won't have to wait until the summer to enjoy the fruits of their labor towards the class of 2010. Several prospects, such as five-star cornerback DeMarcus Milliner, will be in ... 

• Notebook: Moore ready to add another statue • BamaOnLine
Mal Moore is ready to put up the Nick Saban statue now, Colt McCoy wasn't the only quarterback with a injury problem and Mark Ingram was playing hurt as well. 

• Afterthoughts: BCS Championship Game • BamaOnLine
PASADENA, Calif. -- The quest for UA's thirteenth national championship is officially underway. Check inside as BOL senior analyst Travis Reier provides quarter-by-quarter analysis from the Rose Bowl! 

• LIVE - Top national prospects react to Alabama's National Championship • Crimson Confidential
Alabama targets throughout the country are buzzing today thanks to the Crimson Tide taking down the National Championship. 

• Dareus does in Texas with interception return • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. – Everyone thought Texas was going to run the clock out before halftime Thursday night.

• Anders, Upshaw bail out Bama with ‘Disguise’ • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
PASADENA, Calif. – It’s called ‘Disguise.’ Thursday night, it meant demise – for Texas. 

• CRIMSON AND OVER: Alabama wins 13th national championship • Crimson Confidential
PASADENA, Calif. -- No. 1 Alabama won its first college football national championship since 1992, beating No. 2...

• Bama in the NBA January 7th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Men's Basketball:
Alabama 66, LSU 49

• Dawn Kent: Thousands line up to get picture taken with Alabama's national championship trophy • The Birmingham News
Trophy to be on display at Gardendale Walmart on Sunday

• Gentry Estes:  Alabama players credit Saban for championship season • The Press Register
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- Alabama coach Nick Saban says it often: He wants his team to focus on the process and not the overall goal.

• Ivan Maisel: Saban looks ahead to next challenge • Crimson Confidential
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- The morning after Alabama defeated Texas 37-21 in the BCS National Championship Game, someone asked Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban about a repeat in 2010. His answer revealed the essence of what makes him tick … which is to say, every crystal football has a dark cloud.

• Smart offered UGA job • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has been formally offered the same position at Georgia since returning from Pasadena, Calif., multiple sources have told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Women's Basketball Hosts South Carolina Sunday • RollTide.com
The women's basketball team (8-7, 0-2 SEC) returns to the hardwood Sunday, Jan. 11 when it hosts South Carolina (7-7, 0-2 SEC) at 2:00 p.m. (CST) in Coleman Coliseum. Both the Crimson Tide and Game... 

• Walter Kirkwood: Looking Ahead to the Alabama Linebackers • Bleacher Report
It's funny how in an era of spread offense, and sunny vacation recruiting hot spots like Florida and USC, an Old School program like Alabama beats them all—and they did it the Old Fashioned way...

• USAAAB Announcement Gallery • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Scout.com presents the pictures of the player announcements...

• Erik Stinnett: McCoy not only injured star who sat out title game • Crimson Confidential
Looks like Colt McCoy is becoming a bigger issue for Alabama after the game than he ever was before or during the game.

• Mike Herndon: Bama picks up Mosley, but loses shot at Dixon • The Press Register
Alabama got a valued commitment Saturday in Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley, but learned this week that another player it had been targeting, Waco (Texas) defensive back Ahmad Dixon, has chosen Tennessee. Dixon (6-1, 194), a four-star safety with corner cover skills, had previously committed to Baylor, but had backed off that commitment and was exploring other options. He visited...

• Josh Bean: Theodore's C.J. Mosley picks Alabama Crimson Tide for football • The Press Register
MOBILE, Ala. -- Alabama earned another victory today -- this time on the recruiting trail -- when Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley said he will play at Alabama.

• Doug Segrest: Theodore's Mosley picks Tide • al.com
Alabama picked up a huge commitment before the U.S. Army All-American Game kicked off, when Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley announced he would sign with the Crimson Tide. "It's great to see the University of Alabama back on top," Mosley said during the NBC broadcast. Mosley picked Bama over Auburn, Stanford and Texas.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: The Scarbo Poll: The 2009 team is winning, but this game isn't over. • The Birmingham News
OK. I've had my say in Saturday's column.

• Ben Raines: Alabama football fans clamor for championship memorabilia (with video) • al.com
MOBILE, Ala. -- Standing in the crowded Bama Fever store in Bel Air Mall on Friday morning with a broad, toothy smile and an armload of crimson "National Champion" T-shirts, Mary Lee Owens said she was relieved.

• Alabama Took Advantage of a Boring, Predictable, Obvious Texas Longhorns Team • Bleacher Report
The game was very boring from McCoy's injury until the early fourth quarter. It basically looked like Alabama handing the ball off just about every play for little to no gain. When Texas had the ball, you were just holding your breath when Gilbert dropped back in the pocket.

• No surprises for Mosley; Theodore star picks Bama! • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
As expected, Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley didn't surprise anyone when he announced his decision on national TV this morning. The 6-2, 215-pounder did just what everyone expected, picking Alabama over Auburn. Mosley made his decision known at the U.S. Army All-American Game in San Antonio. 

• Live! U.S. Army Bowl Announcements • 'BamaMag
SAN ANTONIO, Texas -- The U.S. Army All-American Bowl is the longest running national high school All-American Bowl game in the country and during the live television broadcast some of the top prospects will be selecting where they will play in college. Check out this feature to find out who is going where and some analysis on the type of player your school may be getting. 

• Mosley rolls with the Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
It didn't take long for the Alabama recruiting train to get rolling again after winning their 13th national championship. Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley made his verbal commitment to the Tide in front of a national TV audience Saturday afternoon.

• Cupboard still full for Tide in '10 • Crimson Confidential 
The 2009 college football

• It's Official - Mosley commits to Alabama • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
C.J. Mosley, the 6-foot-2, 215 pound standout linebacker (Theodore/Theodore, Alabama) joins the Alabama family, committing to Alabama. 

• Army All-American Game Headquarters • Crimson Confidential
Today's Army All-American Game will be featuring a good number of Alabama commitments and targets. NBC's coverage will...

• Recruiting 2010:
LB C.J. Mosley commits

• Gymnastics:
Friday Night: Alabama 195.650, Auburn 195.200

• Bama in the NBA January 8th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Alabama Gymnastics Beats Auburn, 195.650-195.200 to Open Season • RollTide.com
The Alabama Gymnastics team, the defending Southeastern Conference Champions, opened the 2010 season Friday with a win at Auburn, 195.650-195.200. It marked the Crimson Tide's 99th consecutive win ...

• Emotions for Alabama players, fans run high following BCS title win • Tuscaloosa News
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. | As the Southern California night air washed over the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena on Thursday, Art Wintheiser had a front row seat to history.

• Texas Tech reportedly to interview Smart • Tuscaloosa News
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. | Nick Saban understands that a successful football program breeds opportunity for assistant coaches, but he doesn’t want the University of Alabama losing staff members to just any job.

• Talladega flag flies over Texas after Alabama victory • Tuscaloosa News
TALLADEGA | Clad in Crimson Tide apparel, Texas Motor Speedway president Eddie Gossage raised the Talladega Superspeedway flag over the Texas Speedway Club offices Friday, much to the delight of Talladega Superspeedway president Rick Humphrey.

• Tide travels to LSU to open SEC schedule • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama men’s basketball team opens up Southeastern Conference play today at defending SEC champion LSU at 4 p.m. with the game being broadcast regionally on Fox Sports South.

• Tide opens season with a victory over Auburn • Tuscaloosa News
AUBURN | The Alabama gymnastics team, the defending Southeastern Conference champions, opened the 2010 season Friday with a win at Auburn, 195.650-195.200. It marked the Crimson Tide’s 99th consecutive win over the Tigers.

• No. 18 Tide wins matches at UNLV Invitational • Tuscaloosa News
LAS VEGAS | The 18th-ranked Alabama men's tennis team opened play at the UNLV Invitational on Friday, picking up five wins against opponents from No. 20 Louisville. Two of the Crimson Tide's victories came in singles and three in doubles.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Tide team arrives at airport
The Crimson Tide football team arrived at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport to a mob of fans welcoming them back home...(produced by Cory Pennington)

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Tide team arrives at airport (part2)
The Crimson Tide football team arrived at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport to a mob of fans welcoming them back home...(produced by Cory Pennington) 

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Fans greet Tide team at airport

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Saban accepts trophies

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: Brandon Deaderick Interview: Brandon Deaderick
Rachel talks with senior defensive lineman Brandon Deaderick on the season, and overcoming some of its struggles.

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama locker room Part II Alabama locker room Part II
Exclusive footage from the Alabama locker room following the BCS National Championship, featuring Javier Arenas, Cory Reamer, and Trent Richardson.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: This is the best Alabama football team ever • The Birmingham News
Ray Perkins was ahead of the curve. 

• Ray Melick: Nick Saban: New Kid on the Block? • The Birmingham News
The most exclusive neighborhood in Tuscaloosa, maybe even in the state -- shoot, maybe even in the entire country - is about to get a new resident.

• Mark McCarter: Water, not Gatorade, is Saban's preference • The Huntsville Times
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - Twelve hours after clinching the national championship, and there was ol' Nick Saban, griping about his defense. 

• Coach made Bama believe • The Huntsville Times
Coach turned a program in turmoil into a champion 

• McElroy's secret • The Huntsville Times
Tide quarterback played in title game with ribs he fractured against Florida

• Tide faces 1st SEC test • The Huntsville Times
Grant looks for better defense entering LSU game

• Tide gymnasts edge past Auburn • The Huntsville Times
AUBURN - For the second season in a row, Alabama's decades-long gymnastics winning streak over Auburn came down to the final event. 

• Sound Off: Other bowl teams looked better than Alabama; Colt McCoy not man enough for NFL • The Press Register
A collection of sports-related reader Sound Off calls from Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, with callers expressing opinions on everything from Alabama's performance in the BCS national championship game to Texas QB Colt McCoy's toughness. Says one caller: Nick Saban invented the prevent offense. 

• Photos, video: A warm reception for national championship Tide on a frigid night • al.com
Team flew into Tuscaloosa on Friday night, met by a crowd of more than 1,000.

• Josh Bean: Highly regarded Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley set to announce college choice at U.S. Army All-American Bowl • The Press Register
Theodore linebacker C.J. Mosley is expected to end the suspense today about his collegiate choice. 

• Tom Gordon: Update: Fans cheer 'Roll Tide' as champs' plane touches down in Tuscaloosa • The Birmingham News
Chants of "Roll Tide" started as an airplane bringing players and head coach Nick Saban from California was spotted on its approach.

• The future starts now: Tide's Saban already looks toward 2010 • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- During the Alabama Crimson Tide's postgame celebration of winning the BCS national championship Thursday, Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban's mind was a 1,000 miles away.

• Josh Moon: Tide is now the hunted • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- The question came seemingly out of the blue to Mark Ingram.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide tailbacks determined to run • Montgomery Advertiser
PASADENA, Calif. -- Texas, which entered Thursday's BCS National Championship Game with the top-ranked rushing defense in America, had goals of containing Crimson Tide tailback Mark Ingram.

• Thousands greet Tide at airport • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Thousands of cheering Alabama football fans have greeted the national champion Crimson Tide football team as it arrived home from the BCS championship game.

• 'Bama to display BCS trophy at 2 Walmarts • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- The University of Alabama is going to display its new national championship football trophy at a place where most anyone can see it: Walmart.

• Saban statue coming? • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama athletics director Mal Moore is ready to erect a statue of Nick Saban outside the football stadium now that the coach has won a national championship with the Crimson Tide.

• COLLEGE BASKETBALL: ALABAMA AT LSU • Montgomery Advertiser
Here is a capsule look at Alabama's SEC opener at LSU today.

• GYMNASTICS: Tide takes 99th straight win over Auburn • Montgomery Advertiser
AUBURN -- Sophomore Ashley Priess scored a 9.9 on the balance beam to clinch Alabama's meet over Auburn. The third-ranked Crimson Tide downed the 14th-ranked Tigers 195.650-195.200, marking its 99th consecutive win. 

• McClain fought bug to help halt ’Horns • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
Linebacker from Decatur needed IV at halftime 

• More likely to come from Tide • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — The e-mail came this morning, just before …

• Saban savors BCS crown • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — Sporting a few bags beneath his eyes and a …

• BCS National Championship Game Notebook • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
Graduation to hurt NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — Alabama coach Nick Saban doesn’t exactly like the talk that already exists about the Crimson Tide repeating as champions next year. The Tide … 

• Alabama collects its trophies • Dothan Eagle
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — He posed. He shook hands. He even — and we’re not kidding here — smiled.

• Blake Sims de-commits to Bama, reopens recruitment • AJC
Imagine, if you can, Blake Sims calling Alabama coach Nick Saban the day after the Crimson Tide wins the national championship to inform Saban that he is de-committing.

• Tony Barnhart: Saban secures his place in Alabama history • AJC
Newport Beach, Calif.–On a plaza at the North end of Bryant-Denny Stadium are the statues of the coaches who have won national championships at Alabama: Wallace Wade, Frank Thomas, Gene Stallings, and, of course, Paul Bear Bryant.

• Baby Tate: College Football: The 11 Best 11s Final Edition And Bowl Review • Bleacher Report
The argumentative nature of the college football game lends itself to never-ending discussions regarding who is the true national champion.

• Jeffrey Fann: Alabama Is Your National Champion, Just Deal With It • Bleacher Report
Alabama is this year's 2009 College Football National Champion, and that's the bottom the line. Where ever I went, whatever I watched, or read after the game was an exercise in whining about the Crimson Tide not deserving the national title. I'm not an Alabama fan, I don't even know anyone that went to Alabama, but unless you're Boise St. you don't have anything to complain about.

• Larry Burton: Final AP Poll, Broken Down By Team and "Fixed". Any Repeaters? • Bleacher Report
The last AP poll of this season is in and the final poll almost has as much to debate as the first one did. Let's examine the top 10, put them in their proper places and guess who might repeat next year in the top 10 again.

• Photos from the Rose Bowl • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Here are more scenes from the Tide's 37-21 win over Texas. 

• Saban Hauls In Title Hardware • 'BamaMag
Alabama Coach Nick Saban made numerous appearances before the media during the week the Crimson Tide was in Southern California for the BCS National Championship Game. It is safe to say that he enjoyed those immediately following Thursday night’s game and the final one he entertained on Friday morning at the Newport Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

• All eyes on Mosley • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Today's Army All American Game is going to feature a handful of the Tide's top commitments and targets. Theodore High standout linebacker C.J. Mosley will be in the spotlight since he will be making his decision known today.

• Will's Blog - National Championship win should bode well for future recruiting classes • Crimson Confidential
Alabama's recruiting classes have been top notch since Coach Saban came to Tuscaloosa. Within each class there is a solid core of players that will continue this winning trend for future seasons. The nation's best recruits have taken serious notice in Coach Saban and the Alabama program.

• Rolando McClain to Enter NFL Draft • RollTide.com
Alabama junior linebacker Rolando McClain announced Monday that he would enter the 2010 NFL Draft. The Butkus Award winner was a 2009 team captain and led the Crimson Tide in total tackles in each ...

• Kirby Smart Staying as Alabama Defensive Coordinator • RollTide.com
University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced Monday that defensive coordinator Kirby Smart would remain in his current position with the Crimson Tide. Smart won the 2009 Broyles Award, giv...

• Former Alabama All-American Holcombe Named to Team USA • RollTide.com
Former Alabama All-American catcher Ashley Holcombe (Fayetteville, Ga.) was named to the 2010 Team USA softball roster as announced by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America. Holcombe wa...

• Ross Wilson Named First-Team Preseason All-American • RollTide.com
Alabama second baseman Ross Wilson was named first-team preseason All-America, it was announced Monday afternoon by Ping Baseball. Wilson earned 2009 First-Team All-SEC honors and was named to the... 

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS Title: Mark Ingram

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Rolando Mcclain talks NFL draft

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Rolando Mcclain Press Conference 

• Web Warehouse • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
1/11: McClain enters NFL Draft, Smart staying 1/11: McClain enters NFL Draft, Smart staying
Alabama junior Rolando McClain will leave early to enter the NFL Draft and Kirby Smart will remain with the Crimson Tide. 

• Gentry Estes: Alabama showed Kirby Smart the money to keep him in crimson • The Press Register
Smart's decision to stay with the Crimson Tide came with a hefty price tag that will greatly increase his $360,000 base salary, sources confirm.

• Don Kausler Jr. 'This is where I'm supposed to be,' Smart says of decision to stay at Alabama • The Birmingham News
Tide defensive coordinator turned down offer to return to Georgia, his alma mater, as defensive coordinator.

• Gentry Estes: Tide's Kirby Smart: 'At the end of the day, I just feel like this is where I am supposed to be.' • The Press Register
Said Smart: "After thinking about all the factors over the last couple days, we are going to stay at the University of Alabama. We love it in Tuscaloosa, have made some great friends here and I think we are building something special here."

• Larry Burton: Alabama Never Got To Show How Great They Could Be in the BCS Game • Bleacher Report
With the clock ticking down in the BCS title game, like many writers, I felt the 16 point margin was more than enough to convince even the smallest of minds that the best team had won the game.

• Larry Burton: Alabama Crimson Tide's Rolando McClain Will Not Return for Senior Season • Bleacher Report
Junior linebacker, All American, and Butkus Award winning Rolando McClain will not return for his senior season at Alabama. He is leaving a group of linebackers that numbered up to 13 at the beginning of practice last year as the unquestioned leader of that group.

• Walter Kirkwood: Disrespecting Alabama • Bleacher Report
Go ahead America. Give us your best shot. You're falling right into our hands.

• Franklin Crittenden: Alabama Wins Another National Championship; How Do They Keep Doing it? • Bleacher Report
How does the University of Alabama do it, how have they become the most successful college football program in America?

• Anthony Grant previews Vanderbilt and Arkansas • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Alabama men's basketball coach Anthony Grant previewed this week's SEC games against Vanderbilt and Arkansas during the weekly SEC Teleconference. Alabama and Vanderbilt will meet on Wednesday, January 13 at 8:00 pm. (CT) at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa. Then the Tide will travel Saturday, January 16 to Fayetteville, Arkansas to face the Razorbacks, with tipoff at 12:30 pm (CT) on the SEC Network. 

• McClain goes; Smart stays • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
It was no surprise that All-American linebacker Rolando McClain decided to forego his senior season at Alabama. While the 6-4, 255-pound McClain announced that he was leaving UA, Tide head coach Nick Saban announced that Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, rumored to be headed to Georgia as defensive coordinator, would be staying in Tuscaloosa next season. 

• Kirk McNair: Rolando Will Be All-Time Favorite • 'BamaMag
There are certain players who leave college early for a professional career, and the followers of that school can't help but wish him well. No one could suggest that Rolando McClain did not give Alabama all that he had, far more than the value of his scholarship. Now he has an opportunity to continue the game of football for a living. A very good living, in all probability. 

• Wiggins Hearing from Plenty • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
2011 athlete Andre Wiggins is hearing from a wide array of programs...

• Kirby Smart Opts To Stay At Bama • 'BamaMag
Alabama defensive coordinator had opportunity for same job at Georgia

• Smith on the Verge • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Virginia lineman Donovan Smith could be close to reeling in big offers...

• Smart Choice • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
University of Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has turned down a lucrative offer to take the same position at his alma mater, Georgia, and help the Tide try to win another national title.

• INSTANT ANALYSIS: Monday • BamaOnLine
The news coming from Tuscaloosa Monday was of the good news/bad news variety. Check inside as senior analyst Travis Reier breaks down the day's events! 

• VIDEO: Ro to NFL; UGA doesn't get Smart • BamaOnLine
A quiet morning turned into a busy afternoon at the UA football complex, as an impromptu news conference revealed the plans of Rolando McClain and Kirby Smart.

• 2011 Tyler Hunter high on the Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Tyler Hunter is a new 2011 name for Crimson Confidential subscribers. However, it is a name that fans will remember thanks to both his physical upside and interest in Alabama.

• McClain to enter NFL draft, Smart staying at UA • Tuscaloosa News
Junior linebacker Rolando McClain will forgo his senior season and enter the National Football League draft, he announced at a press conference today.

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama Tunnel Vision Alabama Tunnel Vision
Raw video footage of various players of the Alabama Crimson Tide after the game heading into the tunnel toward the locker room.

• Andrew Bone Recruiting Report • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
C.J. Mosley a big commitment C.J. Mosley a big commitment
Alabama gained a big commitment during the weekend, but also lost one out-of-state verbal pledge. Play close attention to several commitments across the region and undecided prospects.

• Gentry Estes: Nick Saban says Kirby Smart has chosen to stay at Alabama • The Press Register
Kirby Smart has turned down UGA's offer and will stay at Alabama, according to Nick Saban.

• Don Kausler Jr.: Tide's McClain announces that he will turn pro • The Birmingham News
Also: Kirby Smart will stay at Alabama.

• Gentry Estes: Tide LB Rolando McClain to enter the 2010 NFL draft • The Press Register
McClain makes his decision public today in Tuscaloosa, saying he will declare early for the 2010 NFL draft.

• Tide’s Rolando McClain to enter NFL Draft • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama All-America linebacker Rolando McClain has declared for the NFL draft. 

• Tide in the mix for top Virginia junior • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
One of Alabama's top priorities for the class of 2011 is expected to be linebacker. Curtis Grant, a 6-3, 222-pound junior from Hermitage HS in Richmond, VA already holds 10 scholarship offers and he's receiving interest from several other top programs. 

• Saban’s Reaction Makes Me Smile • Crimson Country Club (Members Only)
Go Saban Go 

• My Initial Championship Game Thoughts…. • Crimson Country Club (Members Only)
.....And by ‘initial’ I mean ‘four days later’ 

• Releford likes what he sees from Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Four-star Tide point guard commit Trevor Releford has led his Bishop Miege squad to a hot start, and in the meantime the 5-foot-10, 170-pounder is following his future squad in Tuscaloosa. Check inside for an update on the future Alabama star. 

• Smart staying put at Alabama • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, who was being pursued heavily by his alma mater Georgia to take over the same position for the Bulldogs, will remain at Alabama, Tide head coach Nick Saban announced Monday afternoon.

• McClain opts to forego senior season • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
The expected came Monday afternoon as Rolando McClain announced his intention to forego his senior season at Alabama and enter this spring's NFL Draft. 

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Fans greet Tide team at airport

• Chase Goodbread: Good Tidings • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Play of the game, or fodder for ‘Horns? Play of the game, or fodder for ‘Horns?
Some final thoughts, and a couple of interesting links, from Alabama's BCS title win over Texas.

• Kent Kasey: Hot Corner: Can fans be sure Nick Saban is permanent? • The Birmingham News
NFL might come callilng for Alabama coach.

• Gentry Estes: Attention: The Wal-Mart trophy tour was not UA's idea • The Press Register
Would it matter if I told you that the University of Alabama itself had nothing to do with the decision to put the BCS national championship trophy at Wal-Mart stores?

• Political Skinny: Politicians race to congratulate Crimson Tide -- except in Texas • The Press Register
Candidates and office-holders alike fired off congratulatory notes on Twitter.com, a social media Web site that limits messages to 140 characters. 

• Brian McAlister: Fan Report Card: Bama earns a 'B' for BCS Game performance • al.com
On Thursday, January 7, Alabama earned the BCS National Championship by defeating Texas 37-21 in the Rose Bowl. Over 600 fans graded the team's performance, with an overall grade of 'B.' Led by 100-yard, 2 TD performances each by Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson, received the highest marks of any group on the team, with a...

• Ray Melick: Real question is, can the Tide repeat in the SEC? • The Birmingham News
Defense sets this league apart from the others.

• Tony Barnhart: Images of a season we’ll never forget • AJC
There are so many images of the 2009 college footbal season that are going to stick with me for a long time:

• Gabe Wright talks Tide, Tigers • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Gabe Wright, an ESPNU 150 Watch List defensive tackle from Carver High School in Columbus has 24 offers from some of the top schools in the country. Two of his top schools are Auburn and Alabama.

• Plans in the works for Saturday celebration • Crimson Confidential
The celebrating ain't over yet. 

• What will Daniel Moore paint? • Crimson Confidential
Everyone knows it's coming. 

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama locker room part III Alabama locker room part III
Exclusive footage from the Alabama locker room after the BCS National Championship, featuring Roy Upchurch, Eryk Anders, and Terrence Cody. 

• No asterisk is required • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
It really is all right for University of Texas football fans to argue that Alabama wouldn’t have beaten their Longhorns if Colt McCoy had been healthy. They are fans. 

• Women's Basketball:
Sunday: South Carolina 80, Alabama 68

• Bama in the NBA January 10th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Women's Basketball Falls 80-68 to South Carolina • RollTide.com
The women's basketball team dropped an 80-68 decision Sunday to South Carolina Sunday at Coleman Coliseum. With the loss, the Crimson Tide dips to 8-8 on the season and 0-3 against Southeastern Con...

• No. 18 Men's Tennis Wraps up Invite with four wins Against No. 73 UNLV • RollTide.com
The No. 18 men's tennis team won four of eight matches, three in singles and one in doubles, Sunday against opponents from 73rd-ranked UNLV during the final day of competition at the UNLV Invitatio... 

• BCS title was worth the wait for fifth-year players • Tuscaloosa News
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. | Back in October of 2005, he was nothing more than an afterthought. He was dressed out in his crimson uniform, but his action was limited to cheering and encouraging teammates.

• Alabama women lose third straight SEC game • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama women’s basketball team dropped a 80-68 decision to the South Carolina Gamecocks Sunday afternoon in Coleman Coliseum to remain winless in Southeastern Conference play after three games.

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: Jonathan Atchison and Jarrell Harris Interview: Jonathan Atchison and Jarrell Harris
Rachel speaks with young Alabama linebackers Jonathan Atchison and Jarrell Harris during BCS Championship festivities in Newport Beach.

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama locker room part III Alabama locker room part III
Exclusive footage from the Alabama locker room after the BCS National Championship, featuring Roy Upchurch, Eryk Anders, and Terrence Cody. 

• Kevin Scarbinsky: The winner is the team that won everything else • The Birmingham News
You have spoken.

• Mark McCarter: Family's title tree keeps expanding • The Huntsville Times
PASADENA, Calif. - Wesley Neighbors spotted his father in the Rose Bowl after the BCS championship and made his way into the stands. 

• Paul Gattis: Alabama's most prized recruit was Saban • The Huntsville Times
The plan, for one Alabama fan in Huntsville, was simple. 

• Sharrief still happy to play part in title • The Huntsville Times
North Jackson alum was proud to play supporting role 

• Tide expects as many as 11 to enroll today • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA -- With National Signing Day still weeks away, a portion of Alabama football's 2010 signing class is about to be finalized. Barring any last-minute surprises, as many as 11 early enrollees are expected to begin classes today at UA and be officially added to the Crimson Tide's roster. New players began moving to campus this weekend and will...

• Press-Register Sound Off: Tubs good fit at Texas Tech, give credit to former Alabama players • The Press Register
A collection of sports-related reader Sound Off calls from Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, with callers expressing opinions on everything from Tommy Tuberville's new coaching job at Texas Tech to giving credit to past Alabama players like Brodie Croyle for this year's national title.

• Tommy Hicks: Top coaches rule the roost in college football • The Press Register
When Nick Saban held the crystal football over his head after the BCS national championship game Thursday night, it signaled three things:

• Gentry Estes: Tide's Kareem Jackson still pondering NFL decision • The Press Register
The junior cornerback plans to meet with Alabama coach Nick Saban before finalizing plans to return next season or not.

• COLLEGE BASKETBALL: Alabama women fall to 0-3 in SEC play after home loss to S.C. • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Dedrea Magee had 18 points, five rebounds and five assists but it wasn't enough as the Alabama women's basketball team dropped an 80-68 decision Sunday to South Carolina at Coleman Coliseum.

• Growing tired of Texas talk of Tide’s luck • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
Maybe the only thing worse than having to fly overnight from the West Coast to home is having to sit in front of a …

• Three favorites for 2011 receiver • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
In the last couple of seasons, the Tide coaches have recruited at talent-rich Oscar Smith HS in Chesapeake, VA. Their efforts paid off this year when Alabama landed Oscar Smith blue-chip quarterback Philip Sims. One of Sims' favorite receivers, junior Quinta Funderburke, had a breakout season and already likes Alabama quite a bit. 

• Tide Win Good For Conference • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Although the fans of at least a couple of Southeastern Conference teams seemed less than enthusiastic over Alabama’s national championship triumph, the Crimson Tide victory was good for the SEC. 

• Is the Tide still in it for Sims? • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Gainesville four-star athlete Blake Sims stunned the Alabama faithful when he announced his decommitment from Alabama on Friday. 

• Top junior LB impressed with Tide championship • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Springfield (Ohio) linebacker Trey DePriest could make a case for being the top linebacker in the country for 2011. Alabama has his early attention after bringing home the BCS championship last week. Check inside for the details.

• Upon Further Review: BCS National Championship • BamaOnLine
Alabama made it through some poor special-teams play, gave up five sacks and had its worst offensive quarter of the season but still won its 13th national championship. 

• VIDEO: Business finished • BamaOnLine
PASADENA, Calif. -- Business finished. Check inside for postgame comments from Greg McElroy, Colin Peek, Mike Johnson, Trent Richardson, Terrence Cody and Rolando McClain! 

• Georgia continues to pursue Smart • BamaOnLine
After pursuing LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis and Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster, Georgia is trying to persuade Kirby Smart to return to Athens. 

• UA Baseball Ranked 10th in the Attendance in 2009 • RollTide.com
The Alabama baseball team ranked 10th nationally in attendance last season, averaging 4,010 fans per game to Sewell-Thomas Stadium, the NCAA announced Tuesday. The Crimson Tide drew 116,294 fans in...

• Ashley Sledge Earns SEC Freshman Gymnast of the Week Honors • RollTide.com
Alabama gymnast Ashley Sledge opened up her rookie season with a bang last Friday when she won her very first collegiate routine, taking top honors on the uneven bars at Auburn. 

• Willis expected to take Texas Tech job • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama inside linebackers coach James Willis is expected to accept an offer to become the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, a source close to the situation has told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Logistics, weather cited as problems with parade • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The idea of a parade to celebrate the Crimson Tide's national championship was nixed because of a host of factors, including logistics, weather and visibility of the parade route.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/12 - JaMychal Green

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/12 - Mikhail Torrance

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
1/12 - Anthony Grant

• Gentry Estes: All signs point to James Willis' departure for Texas Tech • The Press Register
Alabama's inside linebackers coach appears bound for Texas Tech and a defensive coordinator title under former Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville. 

• SEC Gymnasts of the Week • SEC Sports
Georgia's Courtney McCool and Alabama's Ashley Sledge have received SEC weekly honors for outstanding performances in gymnastics.

• Sallee Blog: Georgia's DC Debacle • College Football News
CFN SEC Blogger Barrett Sallee discusses Georgia's search for a defensive coordinator, and how shooting for the stars is hurting the perception of the program.

• Alabama Is No Dynasty, Are They? • Bleacher Report
Dynasty: A family or group that maintains power for several generations.

• VIDEO: Grant, Green and Torrance preview Vandy  • BamaOnLine
On the eve of Alabama's SEC home opener against Vanderbilt, coach Anthony Grant, forward JaMychal Green and guard Mikhail Torrance met with reporters. 

• Evening Recruiting Notes • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
News continues to roll in regarding the potential 2011 class.

• LBs coach Willis being pursued by Texas Tech • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
After winning the national championship week, Alabama is now fighting to keep all its assistant coaches on board. Other teams want what Alabama had this fall, and stealing away a member of the successful Bama coaching staff is one way to do it.

• Chris Low: SEC players invited to the NFL combine • ESPN
Here’s a look at the SEC seniors invited to participate in the NFL scouting combine Feb. 24-March 2 in Indianapolis. There will also be some underclassmen invited once the deadline passes for early entry into the draft. 

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
BCS Title: Defensive Line

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
The Line: Derrick Lassic The Line: Derrick Lassic
Rachel has 1993 Sugar Bowl MVP Derrick Lassic on the latest edition of The Line to discuss Alabama's 13th national title, among other items.

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: DJ Fluker Interview: DJ Fluker
Exclusive interview with redshirt freshman DJ Fluker during Alabama Media Day at the Newport Beach Marriott.

• Video Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: Dre Kirkpatrick Interview: Dre Kirkpatrick
Exclusive interview with Alabama freshman Dre Kirkpatrick at Alabama Media Day at the Newport Beach Marriott.

• TideSportsExtra Museum • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
1982 Liberty Bowl: Bryant’s last game 1982 Liberty Bowl: Bryant’s last game
TideSportsExtra.com presents a special exhibit on the 1982 Liberty Bowl, Paul "Bear" Bryant's final game as Alabama head coach, featuring former football players Tommy Wilcox and game MVP Jeremiah Castille. 

• Alabama's back on the cover of Sports Illustrated • The Birmingham News
Magazine tags team a dynasty.

• Gentry Estes: Eight Tide seniors secure invites to the NFL combine • The Press Register
BCS champion Alabama will be well represented at the NFL's scouting combine, which begins Feb. 24 in Indianapolis.

• This Week In Men's Hoops • SEC Sports
AROUND THE SEC

• Why It's Inevitable That Nick Saban Will Bolt for the NFL Like Pete Carroll • Bleacher Report
Pete Carroll defected to the Seattle Seahawks in search of a "challenge ."

• Tide set to put wraps on stellar class • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
With the national championship tucked away and with signing day less than a month away, the Alabama staff can now focus fully on putting the final touches to its 2010 recruiting class. 

• Memphis junior DT has Tide on top • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Defensive tackle will be a top priority for the Crimson Tide in 2011, and one of Tennessee's best junior prospects already has the Tide on the top of his list.

• Recruiting Notes for January 12th, 2010 • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
What does this weekend mean for prospects like Arie Kouandjio and James Stone? Does 2011 standout linebacker Shannon Brown still favor Alabama?

• Erik Stinnett: One-of-a-kind McClain will be sorely missed in ‘10 • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Sure, Alabama is loaded with young talent. Sure, Nick Saban is still running the show. And sure, defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has elected to remain in Tuscaloosa.

• Alabama Hosts Vanderbilt in Mid-Week SEC Tilt • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama men's basketball returns to Coleman Coliseum for its first SEC home game of the season when it hosts Vanderbilt at 8 p.m. The game will be televised regionally on CSS.

• Alabama Football National Championship Celebration Jan. 16 • RollTide.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The University of Alabama will celebrate the Crimson Tide's 2009 National Football Championship Saturday, Jan. 16 at 2 p.m. in Bryant-Denny Stadium. 

• Tuberville, Texas Tech eye Alabama assistant Willis • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama inside linebackers coach James Willis is a top target for an opening as the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, sources close to the Red Raiders program told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Sledge honored by SEC • Tuscaloosa News
University of Alabama freshman gymnast Ashley Sledge was honored as the Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week for her performance in week one against Auburn.

• Andrew Bone: Crimson Tide looks to build off BCS title • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama completed their season with a perfect 14-0 record with a win over Texas in the BCS National Championship Game. Many of the Tide’s key contributors came from coach Nick Saban’s first two full recruiting classes.

• Gentry Estes: Football title 'certainly a source of pride' for rebuilding UA basketball team • The Press Register
First-year Crimson Tide hoops coach Anthony Grant didn't watch all of the BCS national championship football game, but that doesn't mean he wasn't interested.

• Gentry Estes: And another Sports Illustrated cover for Alabama ... • The Press Register
The BCS national title victory over Texas has earned Alabama's third SI cover since November.

• Company sells BCS title game grass from Rose Bowl • al.com
PASADENA, Calif. -- Getting a piece of college football history will cost some green: $99 for a square of Rose Bowl grass.

• Gentry Estes: Tide's James Willis being courted by his old boss at Texas Tech • The Press Register
New Texas Tech coach Tommy Tuberville is completing a new coaching staff and remains interested in Willis, a current Alabama assistant who coached under Tuberville at Auburn. 

• Jon Solomon: Rogers eyes 'Rooney Rule' for state schools • The Birmingham News
Bill is designed to interview minorities for athletics department jobs

• Junior OL curious about UA • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
The Atlantic region always seems to produce quality offensive linemen. One of the area's top juniors is Landon Turner of Harrisonburg, Virginia. The 6-5, 295-pound tackle prospect has early offers from... 

• The Blitz: Sims to still visit Bama? • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
The Blitz is a feature that will offer quick hitters and recruiting nuggets from time to time. As we approach Signing Day 2010, things change quickly in recruiting, so stay tuned to The Blitz for the latest. 

• Hankerson fired up about Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Charles Hankerson didn't need to see the Alabama Crimson Tide in action under new head coach Anthony Grant before he made his decision to commit to the Tide. But now that he's had the chance to see the Tide in action he feels as good about his decision as ever.

• Gabe Wright talks recruiting, Smart • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Gabe Wright, a 6-foot-4, 275 pound defensive tackle from Columbus, Georgia (Carver) gave his take on Alabama football, Coach Smart, and his relationship with both.

• Details released on Saturday's national championship celebration • Crimson Confidential
Looks like there will be one more Bryant-Denny Saturday this season. 

• Smart worthy of coach-in-waiting status if Tide elects that route • Crimson Confidential
Alabama took a huge step Monday toward repeating as national champion when defensive coordinator Kirby Smart decided to stay at Alabama. 

• Bama in the NBA January 11th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Bama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart turns down job offer from Georgia • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Kirby Smart isn't going anywhere. Not even the lure of returning to his alma mater — nor the boatload of money Georgia was offering — was enough to entice the University of Alabama's defensive coordinator to leave after a national championship season.

• Tide's McClain announces he will enter the NFL Draft • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | There is now officially a void in the middle of the University of Alabama's defense heading into the 2010 season.

• Former Tide player named to Team USA • Tuscaloosa News
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. | Former University of Alabama All-American catcher Ashley Holcombe (Fayetteville, Ga.) was named to the 2010 Team USA softball roster as announced by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America. Holcombe was one of 17 athletes that were offered a USA Softball Athlete Agreement for the 2010 season.

• National title celebration to be held on Saturday • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama will hold it national championship celebration on Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium to honor the football team's victory over Texas in the BCS National Championship Game.

• Hightower: No contact for spring • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower, who was lost for the year with a knee injury in the fourth game of the 2009 season, said his rehabilitation is ahead of schedule.

• 'He fits all 32 systems,' scout says • The Huntsville Times
What can linebacker Rolando McClain expect in the months leading up to the NFL draft? 

• McClain opts for NFL draft • The Huntsville Times
Saban, Hightower agree with Butkus Award winner's decision 

• Smart sticks with Alabama • The Huntsville Times
Defensive coordinator turns down offer from Georgia, his alma mater

• Paul Finebaum: After Alabama's BCS championship, crimson is the only color that matters • The Press Register
Nearly 50 years after Gov. George Wallace stood in the schoolhouse door, the only color that matters in Alabama is crimson. 

• Jeff Sentell: Hot Corner: Was Kirby Smart smart to stay? • The Birmingham News
Alabama assistant could get another shot to return to his alma mater.

• Former Alabama star Siran Stacy to speak tonight at Baldwin County Drug Court Foundation's first graduation • The Press Register
FAIRHOPE, Ala. -- Former Alabama running back Siran Stacy will be the keynote speaker at the Baldwin County Drug Court Foundation's first graduation ceremony tonight at Church on the Eastern Shore in Fairhope.

• Gentry Estes: Full report: Defensive coordinator Kirby Smart passes on return to Georgia, decides to stay at Alabama • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Kirby Smart delighted Alabama fans and disappointed those at his alma mater Monday by turning down a lucrative offer to be Georgia's new defensive coordinator and remaining in that role for the Crimson Tide.

• Sound off: Academics not important at Alabama; Mark McGwire's back, why not Barry Bonds? • The Press Register
A collection of sports-related Sound Off calls from Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, with callers expressing opinions on everything from Rolando McClain turning pro to Mark McGwire admitting his steroid use.

• Gentry Estes: UA to hold stadium celebration Saturday for the Tide's BCS national championship • The Press Register
There won't be a parade, but UA will host a celebration in Bryant-Denny Stadium at 2 p.m. Saturday for the 2009 BCS champs.

• Bama loses defensive star McClain, retains star defensive coach Smart • Montgomery Advertiser
Rolando McClain's announcement Monday that he will enter the NFL draft surprised no one, but the Crimson Nation's pain over losing college football's top linebacker was softened somewhat by defensive coordinator Kirby Smart's decision that he will stay put.

• Rolando’s Tide legacy • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
In three years, Rolando McClain went from prized recruit to the nation’s best linebacker. In a … 

• Smart move • Decatur Daily
Weeks of speculation surrounding Alabama’s defensive coordinator ended Monday. On the same day star linebacker Rolando McClain announced he will leave the Crimson Tide, Kirby Smart said he is …

• Rolando McClain goes pro; Kirby Smart stays put • Dothan Eagle
Alabama lost a national award winner and retained one Monday.

• CFN 2009 Final Rankings • College Football News
Which teams had the best seasons and who deserves to be ranked where? Forgetting the opinion side of the equation, here's our annual ranking of the teams based on the CFN Season Ranking Formula. We all know who number one is, but who came up with the No. 2 spot? Next week ... the 2010 Pre-Preseason Rankings. 

• Bama's best season ever • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Whether or not the 2009 Crimson Tide is the best team in Alabama history is open to debate. But there are plenty of reasons why 2009 might be the "greatest season" in Alabama football history. 

• USAAAB All Combine Second Team • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Scout.com takes a look at the top juniors from the Army Combine….

• Hubbard making his mark • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Norcross defensive end Adrian Hubbard has seen his football career run the gamut - from not playing at all as a junior to showing out on television at the Under Armour All-Star game. See what Hubbard has to say about the Tide's BCS championship and the news that Defensive Coordinator Kirby Smart is staying put in this premium update.

• Ro goes pro • BamaOnLine
Feeling like he's accomplished all his goals at the University of Alabama, Butkus Award winner Rolando McClain announced Monday that he's heading to the NFL. 

• Recruiting Notes - Quotes • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Who is on campus today from the 2010 class? Who is visiting over the weekend? What is the latest from Shannon Brown and Gabe Wright? 

• So Long, Ro • Bama Sports Report
In a move that surprised absolutely no one, Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain announced on Monday that he would be entering the 2010 NFL Draft. The unanimous All-American and Butkus Award winner was a permanent team captain for the 2009 National Champion Crimson Tide.

• Willis agrees to coach at Tech • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | James Willis has agreed in principle to become the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, though contract details are still pending, a source close to the situation told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Gentry Estes: News and notes: James Willis tours Lubbock; Tide GA Groh to Louisville • The Press Register
Alabama remains on the verge of formally losing one position coach, while a graduate assistant is reportedly on the way to join Charlie Strong at Louisville and the wait continues for word from Tide junior CB Kareem Jackson. 

• Don Kausler Jr.: Louisville hires Alabama GA Mike Groh to coach quarterbacks • The Birmingham News
He came to Nick Saban's staff last year after being fired as offensive coordinator at Virginia, where until recently his father was the head coach.

• Evening Recruiting Notes - Recruiting Q/A • Crimson Confidential
More news regarding the ongoing recruiting woes in Knoxville is on the table.

• Women's Basketball Heads to Auburn • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's basketball team (8-8, 0-3 SEC) travels to Auburn (10-6, 1-2 SEC) to take on the Tigers Thursday, Jan. 14 at Beard-Eaves-Memorial Coliseum. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (CST).

• SEC seeking ways to solve scheduling issues • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive is hopeful that solutions to create more balance in the number of games against idle-rested opponents on future SEC football schedules will be available for league athletic directors to consider at their next meeting. 

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Rachel’s Rant…. Rachel’s Rant….
It is wonderful to be back from the great state of California and "The Granddaddy of them All!" It was a whirlwind experience and I would not trade it for the world. 

• Video Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Alabama Breakdown: Derrick Oden Alabama Breakdown: Derrick Oden
In the first of a two-part interview series, TideSportsExtra sits down with 1992 defensive captain, former Alabama linebacker Derrick Oden.

• Andrew Bone Recruiting Report • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Jan. 13 Recruiting Report Jan. 13 Recruiting Report
Blake Sims opting out of his Alabama verbal and CJ Mosely were both hot topics on the latest edition of the TSE Recruiting Report.

• Academics cite Saban, Brown salaries as evidence of need for reform • al.com
ATLANTA -- Some administrators point to the nearly $10 million combined salaries of the head coaches in last week's BCS championship game as proof college athletics are in need of financial reform

• Was Lane Kiffin In Charge Of Parade? • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Any Alabama person who complains about anything Nick Saban does probably needs his head examined. For one thing, anyone who has been paying attention knows that everything Saban does is for a good reason. And who can argue with results – or the process that delivers those results? 

• Championship Visitors • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama football program is expecting a huge list of visitors this weekend in the first big official weekend in January. Check inside for a list of the expected arrivals which includes top uncommitted target James Stone. 

• TideSports Photos: • RollTide.com
1992 National Championship Parade

• TideSports Photos: • RollTide.com
BCS Title: Trent Richardson

• Chase Goodbread: Good Tidings • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Lane change
Lane Kiffin decided one year in the SEC, and more losses than the Volunteers ever expect to endure in a single season, was enough. What are the ripple effects?

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: Darius Hanks Interview: Darius Hanks
TideSportsExtra chats with wide receiver Darius Hanks at Media Day at the Newport Marriott Hotel. 

• TideSportsExtra Features • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
McClain talks about NFL McClain talks about NFL
Butkus Award winner Rolando McClain talks with reporters briefly after announcing his intentions of entering the 2010 NFL Draft.

• TideSportsExtra Museum • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
National Champions: 1925 National Champions: 1925
A look back at Alabama's first recognized national championship. Written by Jason Morton and Robert DeWitt. Narrated by Tim Thompson. 

• U.S. Sports Academy names Alabama-Florida SEC championship 'game of the year' • The Press Register
The game of the year concept was developed by Daniel Moore, the academy's 2005 Sports Artist of the Year. The University of Alabama will receive a commemorative limited edition print and a $5,000 donation for its general scholarship fund for winning the honor.

• Jon Solomon: Football bowl TV ratings up 8% • The Birmingham News
BCS championship game with Tide sees 9% increase

• Jess Nicholas: Kiffin’s departure shakes up SEC again • TideFans.com
This was supposed to be a column about Rolando McClain’s decision to leave for the NFL Draft, or Kirby Smart’s decision to tell alma mater Georgia “no” and stick with Alabama as its defensive coordinator.

• Michael Taylor decommits to Vols, JaWuan James on hold (updated) • AJC
I finally got JaWuan James on the phone. He’s still in Knoxville as of Wednesday afternoon and still isn’t sure what he’s going to do. He may not have much of a choice.

• Illinois junior talks Tide • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Wide receiver DaVaris Daniels, one of the Big Ten region's top junior prospects, has roots in the Southeast. It's one reason some SEC schools are involved with the 6-2, 175-pounder from Vernon Hills, Illinois. 

• ScoutTV: Jarrick Williams makes his case • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Jarrick Williams, Scout.com four-star safety from Prichard-Blount, Ala., is one of the prize recruits in coach Nick Saban’s 2010 class. Williams had a stellar season and competed in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star game and U.S. Army All-American game. Scout.com presents his senior highlights. 

• Green Vs. Ogilvy As Vandy Visits • 'BamaMag
JaMychal Green expects to get Vanderbilt’s best shot when the Commodores visit Coleman Coliseum for Alabama men’s basketball’s Southeastern Conference home opener Wednesday night. Green particularly expects to get the best game from one of the nation’s best big men, Vandy’s A.J.Ogilvy.

• Committed DT to visit UA • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama is expecting a big group of official visitors this weekend, and one new name that has emerged is a long-committed defensive tackles prospect from Louisiana who stock is on the rise.

• Tide targets abound in new Rivals100 • BamaOnLine
The new Rivals100 is out, and Alabama has eight prospects in the prestigious list - including one prospect who has moved into the top five overall.

• Hoops Preview: Alabama vs. Vanderbilt • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama hosts the Vanderbilt Commodores for their home SEC opener at Coleman Coliseum. Is Alabama ready to take on one of the top teams in the conference?

• Will Matthews: Will's Blog - With Kiffin out the door, what does this mean for Alabama recruiting? • Crimson Confidential
Lane Kiffin calling it quits only after only 14 months as coach was certainly a surprise to many, especially those in Knoxville today. USC came a calling and Kiffin quickly answered, leaving thousands of Tennessee fans wondering why. 

• LBs coach Willis likely headed to Texas Tech after Tuesday night visit • Crimson Confidential
It looks like Alabama may have a spot to fill on its coaching staff in the very near future. 

• Not the best of times for former Tide assistant Thompson • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Lane Kiffin is all the talk today. At the same time, it's hard not to give a little thought...

• The Vols May Get The Best Of This Deal • Bama Sports Report
Lane Kiffin has departed from the state of Tennessee, and for the sake of his health, hopefully forever. What's it all about? Alfie?

• Bama in the NBA January 12th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Back on the job • Tuscaloosa News
Hightower expects to be in offseason workouts soon

• Willis expected to reunite with Tuberville at Texas Tech • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama inside linebackers coach James Willis is expected to accept an offer to become the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, a source close to the situation has told The Tuscaloosa News.

• SEC seeking ways to solve scheduling issues • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive is hopeful that solutions to create more balance in the number of games against idle-rested opponents on future SEC football schedules will be available for league athletic directors to consider at their next meeting.

• Tide looking for rare 2-0 start to SEC play • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama men's basketball team is trying to do something that it hasn't done for a long time in Southeastern Conference play — get off to a fast start.

• UA's Sledge honored as Freshman of the Week • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama freshman gymnast Ashley Sledge made the most of her first collegiate action in Friday's nights win against Auburn. For her efforts she was honored as the Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week.

• Eight UA seniors invited to NFL Combine • Tuscaloosa News
INDIANAPOLIS | Eight University of Alabama football players who have completed their seniors seasons have been invited to the National Football League Combine in Indianapolis, according to Sporting News.

• Sports Illustrated features Tide for third time • Tuscaloosa News
For the third time in less than two months, University of Alabama football is featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

• Depleted ranks won't slow down Alabama • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - The grind of a season at its midpoint hasn't fazed Alabama senior point guard Mikhail Torrance.

• Tide's Willis likely to follow Tuberville • The Huntsville Times
Assistant slated to be Texas Tech's new coordinator 

• Tommy Hicks: Joey Jones' son enrolls at South Alabama • The Press Register
Jake Jones, former Alabama signee, hopes to play for Jags this season.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Could coaching dominos land Lance Thompson back at Alabama? • The Birmingham News
Former Alabama assistant needs a job since Lane Kiffin is going to USC.

• Gentry Estes: Alabama assistant coach James Willis appears headed to Texas Tech for coordinator position • The Press Register
Alabama inside linebackers coach James Willis is close to finalizing a deal that would make him Texas Tech's new defensive coordinator, multiple sources have told the Press-Register.

• Don Kausler Jr. Kiffin's shocking exit means it's open season on players committed to Tennessee • The Birmingham News
Rival coaches aren't wasting time trying to woo hot prospects away from the Vols.

• 2009-10 Swimming & Diving Weekly Notebook (week ending 1/11) • SEC Sports
Team Notes 

• Dont'a's inferno: Injured LB burns to return and lead Tide defense • Montgomery Advertiser
Rolando McClain's decision to enter the NFL draft a year early passes the torch to Dont'a Hightower, the linebacker who is expected to move from his weakside position and step into McClain's role in 2010.

• COLLEGE BASKETBALL: Tide tackles tough test against Vandy • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Vanderbilt coach Kevin Stallings said he was impressed with Alabama's Southeastern Conference opening win over LSU on Saturday, but figures his opener put him a step ahead in preparing for tonight's showdown between the two teams in Coleman Coliseum. 

• Sports briefs: Tide to celebrate 13th national title Saturday • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama will hold a national championship celebration Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium. And the first 50,000 fans entering the stadium will receive a poster of the championship team at the Rose Bowl. 

• Tide takes on Vanderbilt • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Two of the most improved teams in the Southeastern Conference collide tonight when Vanderbilt visits Alabama at Coleman Coliseum.

•  Jonathan Fravel: Deconstruction Of an Empire. It Starts With The Media • Bleacher Report
Beware Alabama. The media storm has resumed and will not stop until Alabama has been knocked off the throne of the college football world.

• UA assistant talks to Tennessee commit • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
With the shocking news of Lane Kiffin's move from Tennessee to USC, several prospects committed to the Volunteers are left wondering what's next. One of those is... 

• How will Tennessee news affect UA recruiting? • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
With the stunning news of the resignation of Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin Tuesday evening, attention was immediately directed to the Volunteers's recruiting class and the inevitable fall out. Does the news open the door for the Tide in regards to prospects such as Markeith Ambles? 

• 2011 DT impressed by Tide title • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
One of the top 2011 prospects from the state of Texas was watching closely when the Alabama Crimson Tide battled the Texas Longhorns and came away with a national title. Read more about the 6-foot-1, 270-pound defensive lineman's thoughts on Alabama's big win... 

• Willis Headed to Texas Tech • Bama Sports Report
On the heels of the great news that Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has decided to stay at Alabama, it looks as though inside linebackers coach James Willis will not. The folks at the Tuscaloosa News are reporting that he will accept the position of defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, under former Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville.

• Red Raiders land Willis as defensive coordinator • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Texas Tech's courtship of University of Alabama assistant coach James Willis has ended in the 37-year-old linebackers coach becoming the Red Raiders' new defensive coordinator.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Ben Eblen, 1/14

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Anthony Grant, 1/14

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Mikhail Torrance, 1/14 

• Rachel Baribeau Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
The Line: Lenn Roberts The Line: Lenn Roberts
Rachel connects with NY Post sports writer Lenn Roberts to discuss Alabama's win from a national perspective on the latest edition of The Line. 

• Video Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Dec. 14 TSE Roundtable Dec. 14 TSE Roundtable
Chase, Aaron, and Tommy discuss Pasadena, the upcoming Alabama celebration, coaching changes around the league and more in the latest segment. 

• Web Warehouse • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
1/14: BREAKING NEWS: Tennessee gets Cutcliffe 1/14: BREAKING NEWS: Tennessee gets Cutcliffe
Reports are saying that David Cutcliffe will become Tennessee's next head coach barring any last-minute setbacks. Also, Skip Holtz takes over at USF and James Willis leaves Alabama for Texas Tech.

• Don Kausler Jr.: It's official: Tuberville hires Willis as Texas Tech's defensive coordinator • The Birmingham News
Lubbock, Texas, newspaper is reporting a finalized deal with Alabama assistant coach. 

• Doug Segrest: Odds to win 2010 national championship • The Birmingham News
Bodog believes half a dozen SEC teams could figure in the national race.

• Pruitt leading candidate to fill staff opening • BamaOnLine
Director of Player Development Jeremy Pruitt is the leading candidate to fill the vacancy on Nick Saban's coaching staff, a move that could happen quickly.

• No. 18 Men's Tennis Heads to Atlanta for the SEC Indoor Championships • RollTide.com
The 18th-ranked men's tennis team heads to Atlanta to take part in the SEC Coaches' Indoor Championships running Friday, Jan. 15 through Monday, Jan. 18 at the Racquet Club of the South.

• Gymnastics Opens Home Schedule Against Defending NCAA Champions Georgia this Friday • RollTide.com
The defending Southeastern Conference Champion Alabama Gymnastics team opens its home schedule against five-time defending NCAA Champion Georgia Bulldogs Friday at 7:30 p.m. in Coleman Coliseum. 

• UA releases national championship celebration poster • Tuscaloosa News
As fans file into Bryant-Denny Stadium Saturday to celebrate the Crimson Tide's 2009 national championship, the first 50,000 will receive a commemorative poster.

• Source: Willis agrees to Tech job • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | James Willis has agreed in principle to become the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, though contract details are still pending, a source close to the situation told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Willis takes Texas Tech job • BamaOnLine
After talking things over with Nick Saban, interior linebackers coach James Willis accepted an offer to become the defensive coordinator at Texas Tech. 

• TideSports Photos: • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama vs. Vanderbilt basketball

• Pasadena Blog • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Interview: Todd Blackledge Interview: Todd Blackledge
A quick interview with ESPN commentator, and Taste of the Town host, Todd Blackledge from the Newport Beach Marriott. 

• TideSportsExtra Museum • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
National Champions: 1926 National Champions: 1926
A look back at Alabama's second recognized national championship. Written by Jason Morton and Robert DeWitt. Narrated by Tim Thompson.

• Web Warehouse • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
1/14: Alabama back on cover of Sports Illustrated 1/14: Alabama back on cover of Sports Illustrated
Three's the charm. The Alabama football team has been placed on the cover of Sports Illustrated for the third time this year. This time the headline reads "DYNASTY."

• Orrin Hatch wants Boise State to visit White House with national champ Alabama • al.com
Utah Republican wants to send message that champions should be chosen on field.

• Gentry Estes: Tuberville: 'We'll have to wait and see' on Willis' hire at Texas Tech • The Press Register
New Texas Tech coach Tommy Tuberville says the Red Raiders will "hear today" if Alabama defensive assistant James Willis, as expected, becomes coordinator in Lubbock.

• Colt McCoy, after meeting with Alabama doctor, says arm injury healing • al.com
AUSTIN, Texas -- Colt McCoy says his injured right arm is healing and should be 100 percent in about two weeks. The former Texas quarterback, who was knocked out of the BCS championship game early in UT's 37-21 loss to Alabama, offered the update this morning. A tackle pinched a nerve and caused his throwing arm to go numb....

• Dr. Crimson: Well Worth the Wait - Exceeding Expectations • al.com
Back in July, I wrote a blog entitled "Summertime Dreams of the Fall" here on Al.com where I said that things were starting to remind me of my fond memories of the 1992 Summer and the ensuing national championship run. I could take some credit on that preseason prediction, but in all honesty this season has dramatically exceeded my...

• Thank You, Rolando McClain • Bleacher Report
This is an article that I was not looking forward to writing, but thought it necessary. Although I am sad that Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Rolando McClain is going, I also support that in many ways, and want to say, before he goes, Thank You...

• Elite junior OL has ties to state of Alabama • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
If early offers are any indication, this offensive tackle will be one of the nation's prized prospects for the class of 2011. The 6-5, 292-pounder from the state Arizona already has over 20 offers, including ones from Florida, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Nebraska, Notre Dame and USC. He has family ties in Alabama and he's hoping for an offer from the Crimson Tide. 

• Tide prospects dominate the Rivals250 • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The final Rivals250 ranking of the class of 2010 is out, and in what has been a tradition since the arrival of Nick Saban to Alabama, the Crimson Tide is once again well represented. Check inside for a recap of the Tide commits and targets and their movement in the new rankings.

• Crimson Tide fans remember Pasadena • Crimson Confidential
One week since Alabama finished off an historic season by defeating Texas 37-21 in the BCS title game in Pasadena, Calif. It was a glorious, almost surreal night to say the least. 

• Will Matthews: Will's Blog - With several top names out of the running, who will be UT's coach? • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
We're hearing more news as of late about the coaching situation at Tennessee. 

• WVUA Recruiting Interview • Crimson Confidential  (Subscribers Only)
Alan Faul of WVUA had Will Matthews on last night for some recruiting talk. One of the major...

• With Willis leaving, where does that leave Bama? • Crimson Confidential
With Alabama inside linebackers coach James Willis set to leave for Texas Tech, the question becomes: What impact...

• Men's Basketball:
Wednesday Night: Vanderbilt 65, Vanderbilt 64

• Bama in the NBA January 13th Stats:
See how former players performed.

• Men's Basketball Falls to Vanderbilt, 65-64 • RollTide.com
Senior forward Mikhail Torrance scored a game-high 23 points but it wasn't enough as the Alabama men's basketball team lost a down-to-the-wire 65-64 decision to the Vanderbilt Commodores Wednesday ...

• Source: Willis agrees to Tech job • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | James Willis has agreed in principle to become the new defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, though contract details are still pending, a source close to the situation told The Tuscaloosa News.

• Vandy inches past UA with free throws • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The Vanderbilt Commodores didn’t exactly run away from the University of Alabama basketball team down the stretch — but they did manage to inch their way to a win.

• Leaving Tide ‘bittersweet’ for Sedrick Irvin • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Sedrick Irvin was a 1,000-yard rusher at Michigan State under then-Spartans coach Nick Saban and went on to a two-year career with the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. Irvin spent the 2008 and ’09 seasons as a football intern at the University of Alabama. The day the Crimson Tide returned from the BCS National Championship Game, the 31-year-old Irvin began a new job as running backs coach at the University of Memphis. Irvin spoke with The Tuscaloosa News for a Q&A earlier this week.

• Sledge adds depth to Bama • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Sometimes dreams come true. Just ask Ashley Sledge.

• Tide baseball 10th in attendance in 2009 • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama baseball team ranked 10th nationally in attendance last season, averaging 4,010 fans per game to Sewell-Thomas Stadium. The Crimson Tide drew 116,294 fans in 29 home dates, the fewest number of home dates for the Crimson Tide in the last 20 years.

• Tide visits Auburn in search of SEC win • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama women’s basketball team heads to the Plains to battle the Auburn Tigers in the first hard-court Iron Bowl of the 2009-2010 season with the Crimson Tide reeling from three consecutive Southeastern Conference losses. The Tigers, on the other hand, picked up their first SEC victory last Sunday at LSU after two opening defeats in conference play.

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting chat transcript • Tuscaloosa News
Chat transcript (1-13-10)

• Cecil Hurt: UT has need for speed • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
It was really no more surprising for Lane Kiffin to bolt out of Knoxville after 14 months as Tennessee’s head football coach than it would be for an untrained puppy

• Andrew Bone Recruiting Report • TideSports Extra (Subscribers Only)
Jan. 13 Recruiting Report
Blake Sims opting out of his Alabama verbal and CJ Mosely were both hot topics on the latest edition of the TSE Recruiting Report.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Saban could promote Pruitt to replace Willis • The Birmingham News
Nick Saban surprised a lot of people, many of them Auburn fans, when he hired James Willis to replace Lance Thompson when Thompson left for Tennessee after the 2008 season.

• A bitter bounce • The Huntsville Times
Crimson Tide can't shake off foul trouble, Vanderbilt in first SEC defeat of season, 65-64

• Alabama recruits unfazed by Willis • The Huntsville Times
Assistant coach could still leave for job at Texas Tech 

• Sound Off: Alabama champion of a subjective system; Saints' three-game losing skid will matter • The Press Register
A collection of sports-related reader Sound Off calls from Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, with callers expressing opinions on Alabama's national titles and the Mark McGwire steroid issue.

• SEC Men's Recap - Jan. 13 • SEC Sports
SEC Men's Basketball Results for January 13, 2010

• UA basketball: Tide hacks it up at home • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Vanderbilt turned up the intensity in the second half Wednesday and was rewarded for its physical play at the free-throw line.

• Auburn, Alabama women hold court • Montgomery Advertiser
AUBURN -- A bitter double-overtime loss at Florida last week left Auburn's older players more bitter than expected.

• Vandy edges Bama late • Decatur Daily (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Jump ahead. Allow a comeback. Alabama followed the …

• Auburn women hope to build on momentum against Alabama • Dothan Eagle
AUBURN — Three days later, Auburn women’s basketball coach Nell Fortner and the Tigers’ most reliable veteran, Alli Smalley, were still beaming about Sunday’s upset victory at No. 12 LSU.

• Vanderbilt beats Alabama • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Jeffery Taylor’s free throw with six seconds left broke a tie and lifted Vanderbilt over Alabama 65-64 on Wednesday night, ruining the Crimson Tide’s SEC home opener.

• 2010 NFL Draft Early Entries - Updated 1/14 • College Football News
Who's taking off early for the league of mercenaries and where will they likely get drafted?

• Tide misses last shot in heartbreaking home loss • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Leading by one point with six seconds left after a Jeffery Taylor free throw, the visiting Vanderbilt Commodores wisely guarded Mikhail Torrance on the inbounds pass, so Anthony Brock brought it up, drove, missed, and JaMychal Green was unable to control the rebound enough to get up one last shot in a tough 65-64 defeat at Coleman Coliseum.

• DL ready to visit Bama • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
For several weeks TI has reported that a defensive lineman committed to another school would soon emerge for the Crimson Tide. That defensive lineman is Brandon Jackson, a 6-4, 280-pounder from Evangel Christian HS in Shreveport, LA, who is committed to Texas A&M. 

• Tide looking at a few more recruits • 'BamaMag
Never a dull moment on the recruiting front across the country. Lane Kiffin threw a big glitch in the system this week just when it appeared a few schools were about to coast to signing day closing out with a couple of more commitments to fill their class. Let's take a look where Alabama might stand with a few remaining prospects.

• ScoutTV: Super Soph Jameis Winston • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Scout.com presents 2009 season highlights.

• Tide Needed Just One More Score • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Alabama comes up just short in a number of areas against Vandy

• ScoutTV: Keiwone Malone senior highlights • 'BamaMag (Subscribers Only)
Alabama commitment in action.

• Free Throws Hurt Tide In Loss • 'BamaMag
This isn’t what is meant by charity begins at home. Vanderbilt was given way too many opportunities. Free chances. It was appropriate on a night when the Commodores had 20 more free throw opportunities than home-standing Alabama that Vandy would win the game with a free throw in the final seconds.

• Alfy solid to Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Four-star defensive end Alfy Hill has been blowing away scouts and college coaches since his phenomenal junior season and as National Signing Day closes in, Hill continues to impress, most recently with his performance in the Under Armour All American Game. In this update, Hill talks about his experiences and his future in Tuscaloosa.

• Willis returning to Tuscaloosa to talk with Saban • BamaOnLine
Alabama linebackers coach James Willis has an agreement in principle to become the defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, but will first meet with Nick Saban. 

• Vanderbilt edges Tide in final seconds • BamaOnLine
Despite leading most of Wednesday night, Alabama wasn't able to hold off Vanderbilt in the final seconds of a 65-64 game at Coleman Coliseum.