Friday, June 1, 2007

• Bama in the NBA: May 31 --->game stats:
Antonio McDyess scored 2 points and...

• Tide Golf Team 10th Going into 3rd Round at NCAA Championships • RollTide.com
Sophomore Matthew Swan had the team's low round of the tournament on Thursday, shooting 2-under, 68, and is T-12th in the individual standings.

• Two Alabama Football Games Announced for Television • RollTide.com
Two University of Alabama football games have already been slated for television it was announced this week. Lincoln Financial Sports will broadcast Alabama's Sept. 8 game at Vanderbilt while the Crimson Tide's Sept. 15 game against Arkansas will be broadcast by ESPN. Read More

• Parker a first-team All-America selection • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Three University of Alabama softball players have been named All-America by the National Fastpitch Coaches’ Association, with Lauren Parker receiving first-team recognition. Parker, a sophomore second baseman from Port Neches, Texas, who transferred to UA from

• Tide moves up to 10th place • Tuscaloosa News
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. | After a nightmare start that found the team 10-over par going into the fourth hole, the third-ranked University of Alabama golf team snapped back and finished the second round of the NCAA Men’s Championships at 3-under par Thursday. Alabama is in 10th place

• Tide’s Salem gets top SEC award • Tuscaloosa News
DESTIN, Fla. | Emeel Salem had already won the University of Alabama’s highest honor for a student-athlete. Thursday evening, he took home the Southeastern Conference’s equivalent, too. The former Crimson Tide outfielder was presented with one of two H. Boyd McWhorter SEC

• Tommy Hicks: Coaching stars can name price • Press-Register
DESTIN, Fla. -- And the money train keeps chugging along. But at what price?

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Tide's Gottfried ready to roll down to Rio • The Birmingham News
USA Basketball calls, you answer. You're wanted as an assistant coach for your country's team in the Pan Am Games, all you want to know is what to pack and when to leave. 

• Back from two-year mission trip • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama baseball coach Jim Wells says he expects former star shortstop Cale Iorg to rejoin the Crimson Tide when he returns from his Mormon mission.

• Basketball coaches hope task force on APR scores will lead to gains • The Birmingham News
DESTIN, Fla. - Billy Donovan described a hypothetical. His scenario didn't actually happen, but Donovan wanted his point heard this week as it relates to the Academic Progress Rate.

• Donovan news sets SEC meetings abuzz • The Birmingham News
DESTIN, Fla. - Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan's departure to the Orlando Magic was the buzz at the SEC spring meetings on Thursday.

• SEC spring meeting notes • The Birmingham News
SEC will vote on recruiting change: 

• Coaches see longer shot opening floor • Press-Register
DESTIN, Fla. -- Other than making sure to attempt shots from behind the correct arc, moving the 3-point shot back one foot beginning with the 2008-09 men's college basketball season won't change the shot too much, SEC coaches said this week. But it may change the game.

• League members to get $10 million each • Press-Register
DESTIN, Fla. -- In its 17th consecutive year of hauling in record revenue, the SEC is expected to announce today it is passing out $10 million to each of its 12 member schools for the first time.

• Two Tide football games set for TV • Montgomery Advertiser
Two University of Alabama football games were picked for television in September, including the Southeastern Conference opener at Vanderbilt.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Friday, June 01, 2007

• COLLEGE GOLF: Tide 10th, Swan 12th in NCAA Championships • Montgomery Advertiser
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. -- After a nightmarish start that found No. 3 Alabama 10-over par going into the fourth hole, the Crimson Tide bounced back and ended the second round at 3 under par Thursday at the NCAA Men's Golf Championships

• McClain can explain • The Huntsville Times
Alabama recruit denies rumors about his dedication  

• Alabama 10th in NCAA golf • The Huntsville Times
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - No. 3 Alabama moved up two spots to No. 10 Friday after the second round of the NCAA Golf Championship at the Par 70 Golden Horseshoe Golf Club. 

• Tide signees eager to play for Saban • The Decatur Daily
All-stars say they like coach’s intensity

• Ricks expects to make it • Tider Insider (for members only)
Word is that the Alabama coaching staff thinks Michael Ricks is a big-time safety. But nobody has ever questioned Ricks' talent. The question is whether or not he'll be academically qualified to put it to use this season for Alabama

• McCullough prepared to report to Bama • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I've spent a lot of time the last couple of months working out with [former Alabama linebacker] Conley Duncan, who is a trainer. He's worked on me pretty hard…"

• Alabama in-state recruiting notebook • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Even though high schools have been dismissed for the summer, that hasn't slowed down activity on the recruiting front for members of a historically talented in-state class in Alabama. Find out the latest on some of these prospects, including Jacoby Thomas, James Brown, Barrett Trotter, Ben Jones and many more in this in-state recruiting notebook.

• Law and Woodson Prototype • BamaMag
Robby Green is surprised by a new, big offer. He says he won't decide until Letter-of-Intent Day.

Sunday, June 3, 2007

• Bama in the NFL: The Players -
Jason McAddley signs with the Redskins 6/1

• Bama in the NBA: June 2 --->game stats:
Antonio McDyess scored 7 points and...

• Playoff talk continues around SEC, nationwide • Tuscaloosa News
When the presidents and chancellors of the Southeastern Conference sat down Friday morning to discuss their interest in having a playoff determine the national championship in football, they pretty much knew the idea would get shot down despite each of them having the same initial premise -- that the Bowl Championships Series format is flawed.

• Cecil Hurt: Buck Johnson is honored for talent not turmoil • Tuscaloosa News
It’s almost like a University of Alabama class reunion at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, whose weekend festivities wrap up with a formal induction ceremony tonight. Barry Krauss, Jerry Duncan, Al...

• Alabama finishes in sixth • Tuscaloosa News
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. | The bad news? The third-ranked University of Alabama men’s golf team did not win the national championship Saturday, slipping from third to sixth. 

• Cut on last day of'89 camp sent ex-Tide star to MVP year • The Birmingham News
Barry Krauss' comeback was delivered with a phone call.

• ASHOF CLASS OF 2007 INDUCTEES • The Birmingham News
Wilbur Jackson/Football: The Ozark native was the first black football signee at Alabama, where he earned All-SEC honors and starred on the 1973 national championship team at halfback. Jackson earned NFC Rookie of the Year honors with the San Francisco Giants and played running back when the Washington Redskins won the 1982 Super Bowl.

• BEST OF SEC • The Birmingham News
Worst way to prove Nick Saban isn't under your skin - Go to a meeting of LSU fans and tell them how much you hate Alabama. Go to another meeting and don't mention Bama by name - just relate how you love to beat the heck out of teams wearing red. Les Miles, you've got a lot of winning to do to back it up. Worst way to prove you're the next JaMarcus Russell - By proving you may be the next Michael Vick. Ryan Perrilloux has an abundance of talent but a lack of common sense.

• Sound Off • The Birmingham News
Sunday, June 03, 2007

• Sports Soundoff  • Press-Register
Sunday, June 03, 2007

• Alabama gets sixth at NCAA tourney • The Huntsville Times
WILLIAMSBURG, VA. - The third-ranked Alabama men's golf team finished sixth at the NCAA Championships on Saturday.

• Tom Ensey: Moore, Housel receive honor from ASHOF • Montgomery Advertiser
Words failed former Au burn sports informa tion director and athletic director David Housel when a friend asked how he felt. That may have been a first. If there's a more eloquent man who ever served as a college athletic administrator, I never met him.

• Josh Moon: In all honesty, Tide coach Saban should know better • Montgomery Advertiser
I honestly believe the Univer sity of Alabama's football program is cursed. That's the only explanation for what's happened to it over the past several years. Nothing else fits. Nothing else makes sense.

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Stanford wins NCAA golf title; Bama finishes sixth • Montgomery Advertiser
Stanford's golf team started the season with mod­est goals after a stretch that made the Tiger Woods Era seem so long ago. No more.

• THE CLASS OF 2007 ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME • Montgomery Advertiser
WILBUR JACKSON

• Jimmy Smothers: Eight to be inducted into HoF tonight  • The Gadsden Times
It would be hard to name the most talented athlete or the most deserving inductee going into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame tonight. But there is no question about who is the funniest among the eight men making up the Class of 2007. Sonny Smith wins that honor hands down.

• Two new offers for Upshaw • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Eufaula star defender Courtney Upshaw is fast becoming a national name in recruiting circles. With two new offers to his name and recognition in the form of an all-star game invitation, Upshaw is primed to become one of the top prospects in the country in 2008.

Monday, June 4, 2007

• Tide Makes Adjustments to Basketball Staff • RollTide.com
Kobie Baker Named Assistant Coach, Jeff Dunlap named Director of Operations and roles of assistants Philip Pearson and James Holland will expand.

• Bama's Hendrix and Gee Invited to Pan Am Games USA Basketball Trials • RollTide.com
The Tide juniors-to-be hope to join their coach, Mark Gottfried, in Brazil in July. Gottfried will be the USA team's assistant coach.

• Easton Names Three Alabama Players All-Americans • RollTide.com
Lauren Parker, Brittany Rogers and Chrissy Owens all added to their list of awards this season when Easton Sports, Inc. announced them as members of the 2007 Easton All-American first team. 

• Alabama lands three on Easton All-American softball first team • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama softball players Lauren Parker, Brittany Rogers and Chrissy Owens all added to their list of awards Monday when Easton Sports, Inc. named them 2007 first-team 2007 Easton All-Americans.

• Crump gets the call and arrives early • Tider Insider (for members only)
"My mom called me while I was in Mobile for the All-Star game and said I got the call to show up on Sunday," he says. "It's been a long week, but I came home, packed and now I'm here."

• Luck Cuts His List to Six • BamaMag (for members only)
The slow but steady recruiting story of Andrew Luck has momentarily hit the fast-forward button, with the Houston (Tex.) Stratford quarterback cutting his lengthy school list to six finalists. The four-star slinger reveals his newly trimmed set of suitors and his plans to camp at some of them this month. Luck also comments on his spring ball, recruiting timeline, the Stanford application and more.

• Georgia blue-chipper favors Bama and Miami • Tider Insider (for members only)
"Coach Saban loves how I play. He's told me that I can fit right into the defense. He's put a lot of defensive backs into the NFL. You can't beat that." 

• Rivals100 DE looking at UA • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
One of the nation’s top defensive linemen picked up an offer from Alabama last month and currently the Rivals100 member has 14 total. The 6-foot-6, 245-pounder has plans to unofficially visit the Capstone this summer and the Tide is in the race for his signature.

• Andrew Bone: Corey Smith to graduate early • Tuscaloosa News
"I talked back in February about the possibility of graduating early," said Tide commitment Corey Smith from Bunker Hill, (W.Va.). "I liked the idea. My mom and dad liked the idea."

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Donovan gets the forgiveness Saban didn't • The Birmingham News
If Nick Saban is Satan, isn't Billy Donovan a little devil?

• Croyle battles for Chiefs' QB job • Montgomery Advertiser
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- For at least this one play in practice, when the defense wasn't hitting for real, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Brodie Croyle, the third-round draft pick from Alabama, looked as if he's ready to start in the NFL.

• Tide signee awaiting word from clearinghouse • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I sent everything to the [NCAA] clearinghouse recently. I feel good about making it. I should report in..."

• Rivals100 LB looking at Bama?  • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Cottonwood High School standout Lynn Katoa is one of the top linebackers in the 2008 class. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound Salt Lake City native has offers literally from coast to coast. Find out where the Tide stands with this member of the prestigious Rivals100 by checking the ...

• McClain sets plans • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
With recent reports swirling that Anniston stud offensive lineman Antoine McClain is planning on making a July decision with respect to his college choice, the 6-foot-6, 310-pound giant decided to clear the air about those rumors as well as discuss his summer itinerary.

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

•  Andrew Bone: Several from top 150 rank Bama high on their list • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama has many of the Southeast’s top 150 prospects on its list of players who have been offered scholarships and have been in Tuscaloosa for unofficial visits or plan to attend...

• Star LB talks about the Tide • Tider Insider (for members only)
"Alabama is located in a football town where everybody comes to the games, and the state is a good football state. I have a good relationship with Coach [Curt] Cignetti. He likes how I play sideline to sideline..."

• Rivals250 for the Class of 2008 released • BamaOnLine
The state of Alabama is having a banner year for football talent in 2008 and the college coaching staffs around the coaching are taking notice. 13 players from Alabama, including 2 Crimson Tide commits, have made the cut in the latest Rivals250 list for 2008...

• LB impressed on UA visit  • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
He may not be the most talked about prospect in the South but a 6-foot-3, 248-pound defensive end/linebacker with an impressive list of offers paid a visit to the Tide last weekend and was given the red carpet treatment by the Tide staff. All the attention this defensive sleeper ... 

• Football Guesses Seem Reasonable • BamaMag (for members only)
As I looked over the Birmingham News 2007 Spring Preview, I was reminded of the days when I was an active participant in that effort. (I am also reminded that I think it should be called the Post-Spring Preview or the Early Preview since it is done following spring football practice of all Southeastern Conference teams.)

• Offers Still Coming for Elite Prospect • BamaMag (for members only)
Scout.com reports the latest news with Mark Barron...

• The Legend Of Buck Johnson • BamaMag (for members only)
Former Crimson Tide basketball star now in Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

• QB Secures Big Offer • BamaMag (for members only)
Jacory Harris landed a big offer on Sunday.

• Tide's Mark Harrell Qualifies for U.S. Open • RollTide.com
Bama's junior golfer shared co-medalist honors at U.S. Open qualifier in Georgia on Monday to advance to play as an amateur at next week's major.

• Tide’s Gottfried makes staff adjustments • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama basketball coach Mark Gottfried has named Jeff Dunlap as the Crimson Tide’s Director of Basketball Operations, has promoted Kobie Baker to assistant coach and has given more responsibilities to assistant coaches Philip Pearson and James Holland.

• Three Tide players Easton All-American • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Three University of Alabama softball players got their All-America status reaffirmed Monday with the announcement that Lauren Parker, Brittany Rogers and Chrissy Owens had all been named...

• Tide’s Harrell qualifies for U.S. Open • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Less than 48 hours after he returned from the NCAA Men’s Golf Championships, the University of Alabama’s Mark Harrell emerged as co-medalist Monday at the United States Golf Association...

• Ray Melick: SEC presidents punt Machen's football playoff • The Birmingham News
Fans of college football backed him. Even many of the college football coaches supported him.

• Pan Am is goal for Gee, Hendrix • The Huntsville Times
Rising Alabama juniors Richard Hendrix of Athens and Alonzo Gee are among 30 players invited to USA Basketball's Pan American Games team trials.

• Tide's Wells working toward next season • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama baseball coach Jim Wells has turned the page with no hard feelings toward the NCAA tournament selection committee as his team sits out the postseason.

• Tide's Gottfried promotes Baker • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama coach Mark Gottfried turned to an in-house candidate to fill his only basketball staff opening.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Tuesday, June 05, 2007

• Hendrix trying out for Pan-Am games • The Decatur Daily
Athens High grad one of 2 Tide players attempting to make American team

• Jimmy Smothers: A few moments changed Krauss' life • The Gadsden Times
Mention Barry Krauss and Alabama football fans immediately recall the famous picture of No. 77 going up and over the Tide's defensive front line to stop Mike Guman's attempted dive into the end zone.

• Elite QB talk about favorites • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I don't have a definite date set, but we are planning on going to Alabama this summer. The reason I'm looking at Alabama is because of Coach [Nick] Saban and 
Coach [Major] Applewhite..."

• Rivals250 DT likes Tide • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
This year Alabama fans have seen the Tide staff spread throughout the country in search of top prospects that fit their program. One of the mid-Atlantic’s top players currently has an Alabama offer and the Rivals250 member has the Tide in the hunt for his services.

• CFN Preview 2007 - Returning Lettermen • CollegeFootballNews.com
How much does experience matter? Who has the most returning lettermen? While it doesn't mean everything, the more experience, the better the overall depth, and the potential for better competition for jobs. At least that's the theory. For what it's worth, here's a look at who has the most returning lettermen, and who has the least.

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

• LA star has UA high on list • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
When it comes to some of the nation’s top athletes the state of Louisiana has certainly produced their share of top prospects and NFL talent. This year perhaps the most highly recruited player in the Pelican State is John Curtis defensive back Robby Green who has offers from across the nation and currently list Alabama high among his list of favorites.

• Tennessee Commitment Talks Other Visits • BamaMag (for members only)
Scout.com reports the latest news....

• Bama's Michael Thompson Named PING All-America • RollTide.com
Tide golfer becomes first player in 14 years from Alabama to be voted to collegiate golf's elite. Thompson, a 1st Team All-SEC selection in 2007, led Alabama this past season, finishing T-4th at the NCAA Championships.

• CBS To Carry NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama track teams begin competition today at the NCAA outdoor track and field national championship in Sacramento, Cal. at the University of California-Sacramento

• Mississippi defender favors Crimson Tide • Tider Insider (for members only)
"Right now, I am leaning to Alabama. The facilities at Alabama are advanced. They're top-notch. I got to see their weightroom and the walk-of-fame. It was all impressive. I just got a great vibe..." 

• Watkins reports to UA • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
As the first session of summer class kicks off this week at the University of Alabama, several 2007 signees are reporting early to try and get their college careers in motion before fall camp begins in August. One player who figures to play a major role on the Tide defensive line is Brownsville (Tenn.) native Alex Watkins who, according to his high school coach, is already in Tuscaloosa and has reported to his future team.

• The leading Star • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Lake Worth QB Star Jackson has all the credentials to be special and while most fans are just getting wind of the talents of the 6-foot-3, 182 pound standout, college coaches from around the nation have already taken notice. Where does the Tide stand with this four-star ...  

• Good Vibes • BamaMag
Although he denies any favorites, Jerrell Harris has already visited (either for junior days or spring practice) Alabama, Auburn, Georgia Tech and Clemson. He plans on attending camps at LSU, Florida, Alabama, Auburn, South Carolina, Clemson and Tennessee. All of these schools have offered him as well as Michigan, USC, Florida State, Georgia and several others. 

• LSU Sitting In Finley's Top 5 • BamaMag (for members only)
Alabama safety likes the idea of being the next LaRon Landry.

• ScoutTV: Manuel Is Automatic • BamaMag
Junior highlights of top quarterback E.J. Manuel from Bayside High in Virginia

• Stallworth returns home to help Tide fundraiser • Tuscaloosa News
NORTHPORT | The pairing sheets and scorecards on the wall had many of the expected names for the 2007 Crimson Tide Celebrity Golf Classic on Monday at the NorthRiver Yacht Club: Namath, Jordan, Saban, Stallworth …

• Cecil Hurt: 'Biscuit’ finally feels welcome at alma mater • Tuscaloosa News
Sometimes, Cornelius Bennett was at his most effective when you weren’t exactly sure where he was. Just ask former Notre Dame quarterback Steve Beurlein about that.

• DeMeco Ryans named ASWA pro athlete of year • Tuscaloosa News
HUNTSVILLE | Actually, surprisingly, it was “so much easier" for DeMeco Ryans.

• Bama's Salem, Hunter await draft destination • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA -- Cerebral University of Alabama outfielder Emeel Salem was discussing his major league draft status with reporters recently when that lovable lug of a pitcher Tommy Hunter came up from behind and playfully hugged his teammate.

• John Pruett: Krauss grew up tough, and Sonny had it rough • The Huntsville Times
Hall of Fame induction has poetic moment

• Kevin Scarbinsky: There's no courtship when agents do talking • The Birmingham News
John Brady felt guilty. He wasn't texting like crazy as the SEC's basketball coaches were discussing basketball issues during the league's annual meeting last week in Destin. 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Wednesday, June 06, 2007

• It's all good for Bama's Hunter • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- He has a fastball that makes him a potential first-day selection in this year's First-Year Player Draft on Thursday.

• Jimmy Smothers: Inductees speak out in ceremony • The Gadsden Times
The 39th class of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame was inducted Sunday night in one of the most impressive ceremonies in recent years. Each of the eight inductees and the two distinguished sportsmen being honored had their say - speaking briefly, but saying a lot.

• Bama Day celebrates 25th anniversary this week • The Dothan Eagle
University of Alabama alumni will continue to ride the tide of enthusiasm for the upcoming football season when the Houston/Henry County Chapter of the Alabama Alumni Association holds its 25th annual Bama Day on Thursday in Dothan.

• Things heating up for four-star Nelson • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The Crimson Tide are in the market for a hard-hitting and athletic safety prospect in the 2008 class and one of the South's top safety prospects, a four-star Louisiana athlete, has named Alabama among his top five school choices.

Thursday, June 7, 2007

• Men’s Track Season Ends at NCAA Championships • RollTide.com
The young University of Alabama men's track and field team saw their season come to and end today at the NCAA outdoor track and field national championships. The Tide brought three athletes to Sacramento and was not able to advance any of them in today's events.

• Mataoanu and Bartholomew Both Advance ... • RollTide.com
Both representatives of the University of Alabama women's track team advanced to the next round of competition at the NCAA outdoor track and field championships. Miruna Mataoanu advanced to the finals in the high jump and Trish Bartholomew advanced in the semifinals in the 400 meter run.

• Excitement builds among former players • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Although he originally hails from Birmingham and had a brief stint as a professional there as well, former University of Alabama running back Johnny Musso gets back to his former stomping grounds only a couple of times a year, and relegated his status to that of “fan."

• Tide’s Michael Thompson second-team All-American • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Michael Thompson, a junior on the University of Alabama men’s golf team, has been named a PING Division I second-team All-American.

•  Andrew Bone: Elite quarterback high on Tide • Tuscaloosa News
Virginia quarterback talks about his interest in the University of Alabama..

• The Tide and the draft • Tuscaloosa News
University of Alabama players and signees who could be selected in the Major League Baseball draft:

• Ray Melick: Gottfried's staff changes unremarkable • The Birmingham News
At the end of a basketball season that felt like a disappointment despite 20 wins, Alabama fans believed Crimson Tide coach Mark Gottfried finally got it. 

• Croyle coming back for Junior Miss • Press-Register
When Alabama quarterback Brodie Croyle was in Mobile for the 2006 Senior Bowl, Wintzell's Oyster House owners Bob and Buffy Donlan introduced him to a young lady named Kelli Schutz.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Thursday, June 07, 2007

• Crimson Tide finishes sixth at nationals • The Crimson White
Though a national championship eluded the No. 3-ranked Alabama men's golf team Saturday, they managed to come away with a sixth place finish, only one shot out of the top five. It was the Crimson Tide's best finish since 1975, when it finished tied for third at the championships.…

• Alabama falls short of College World Series • The Crimson White
The bad news? The Alabama Softball team didn't compete in its third straight Women's College World Series this year. The good news? The Crimson Tide softball team enjoyed a record-breaking regular season in which they went 50-6 overall, winning four tournament championships.

• Tide falls at SECs, ends disappointing season • The Crimson White
The Alabama Baseball team ended what has been a disappointing season at the Southeastern Conference Tournament at Regions Park in Hoover last month. The Crimson Tide was eliminated after the first two days of the tournament, losing to Arkansas 0-6 the first day and losing to Florida 2-3 the second day.

• Tide's future could hinge on draft • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Emeel Salem could have taken the money when he was drafted in the 10th round of the 2006 baseball draft by the Baltimore Orioles.

• Tide in the hunt for Tallahassee QB • Tider Insider (for members only)
"Alabama officially offered me last month. Coach Saban visited one of practices and was looking at all of our players. Two days later, our recruiting coach got in touch with me and he had Coach Saban on the line. He talked about his history going back to Michigan State and some of the players he has had..."

• UA in top three for Rivals100 TE • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Louisiana tight end Tyler Edwards had offers from many of the nation’s top programs before cutting his list of favorites to three. Edwards, 6-foot-3, 222-pounds, is a member of the Rivals100 and Alabama is one of the schools that made his final cut.

• Hunter Waiting on MLB Draft • BamaMag (for members only)
The Major League Baseball draft begins on Thursday, and Alabama pitcher Tommy Hunter is one of those eligible to be selected. 

• Bastrop duo wins DL MVP at Ole Miss' camp • BamaMag (for members only)
Michael Harris is ready to shine

• Tyler Love Schedules Busy Summer • BamaMag (for members only)
National Hot 100 member talks of visits.

• Townsend intent on staying on top • BamaMag (for members only)
Cornerback not giving up on starting spot

• Early Signing Period... For or Against? • BamaMag
There are many pros and cons in terms of adding an early signing period for college football recruiting. But the numbers don't lie and those numbers could be just too great to ignore. Over the past five years the early commitments are up an astounding 500%. What will college football recruiting and the early commitments be like in just a few years?

Sunday, June 10, 2007

• Cecil Hurt: There's a lot to learn from Donovan • Tuscaloosa News
So there is a coach in Florida who says he isn’t going to leave his current job. Then he does leave it. Then (and here is where the plot thickens), the coach turns around and leaves that job to go...

• Athletic Director Mal Moore sees good things ahead for UA • Tuscaloosa News
It’s good to be Mal Moore these days. Take last weekend for example. After spending the better part of a week with colleagues at the Sundestin Beach Hilton for the annual Spring SEC Meetings, family...

• QB Barnes leaves UA • BamaOnLine  (for members only)  
Sophomore quarterback Jimmy Barnes made the decision this week to leave the University of Alabama and will continue his football career at a I-AA school this fall. Barnes' father Coach John Barnes spoke with BamaOnline about his son's decision to leave UA... 

• Tide offers LA athlete • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Nick Saban's ties in the state of Louisiana are well known and now the Tide's new head coach has jumped into the mix for one of the Pelican State's top prospects. A 5-foot-10, 185-pound athlete with over 10 offers recently picked up an offer from the Tide and Saban's reputation has put Alabama right in the mix for the high school standout...

• Upshaw Takes Trip To Auburn • BamaMag (for members only)
Eufaula defensive end Courtney Upshaw visited Auburn over the weekend. Was it enough to rethink his recent commitment?

• Junior Trish Bartholomew Earns All-American in the 400 Meter Race • RollTide.com
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Junior Trish Bartholomew tuned in a personal best time for the second consecutive day at the NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships. Her time of 52.17 in today’s 400 meter finals was her best ever and earned her All-American.

• Quarterback Jimmy Barnes leaving Crimson Tide • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Sophomore quarterback Jimmy Barnes has decided to leave the

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Flash! Saban cares what people think • The Birmingham News
Shhh. Don't tell anyone. It might ruin Nick Saban's reputation as a ninja who makes Chuck Norris cry like a baby by looking at him. 

• Sound Off • The Birmingham News
Gottfried making big mistakes: 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Sunday, June 10, 2007

• Jimmy Smothers: Jackson hears old story for first time • The Gadsden Times
It's been almost 40 years since Wilbur Jackson became the first black football player to sign a scholarship with the University of Alabama.

• UA makes cut for nation's top prospect • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The nation's No. 1 football prospect Terrelle Pryor has seen his offer list climb to close to 70 but the two-sport star has decided to trim his list down to a manageable number this week. On Friday, Pryor named 11 lucky finalists and included among them were Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide...

• SEC Position Rankings: Tide safeties check in  • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Two years after fielding one of the nation's top safety duos, the Alabama Crimson Tide heads into the 2007 season with uncertainty surrounding the positions. Check inside to find out where UA's safeties landed in our latest installment of SEC Position Rankings.

• California Dreaming • BamaMag (for members only)
SAN FRANCISCO -- Greetings from the Left Coast, where the drivers who have rolled a few inches beyond the white stripe at stoplights make sure to wave and apologize for their intrusion on the walking lanes. Hint, hint, Alabama drivers... 

• Tide ready to roll? • BamaMag
Because football coach Nick Saban had just one season at LSU in which he lost fewer than three games, critics insist he's overrated. They also say he won't be able to recruit as well at Alabama as he did at LSU. 

Monday, June 11, 2007

• Rivals100 LB to visit UA • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide continue to pursue some of the nation's best defensive stars and recently entered the picture for one of the top inside linebackers in the country. The 6-foot-2, 220-pounds playmaker rated as the nation’s fourth best inside linebacker isn't within the boundaries of Alabama's normal recruiting territory but now says he may be paying a visit Tuscaloosa in the near future...

• Hudson Completes National Team Experience • RollTide.com
Tide volleyball standout Crystal Hudson has already proven that she deserves to be mentioned among the top players in the Southeastern Conference. Last month, the honorable mention All-American got the opportunity to prove that she also deserves mention on a national level when Hudson competed on the USA National A2 team in Austin, Texas. 

• Tide Golfer Joseph Sykora Finishes T-4th at Alabama State Amateur • RollTide.com
Sykora was one of four current Tide golfers who competed for the state's highest honor. Two of those, Ben Moody and Gator Todd, joined him in the Top 20. 

• Heralded WR feels good about Bama • Tider Insider (for members only)
"Some of the schools I feel good about making the cut are USC, Alabama, LSU, Florida, FSU, Miami and Penn State," says this elite wide receiver.

• Tide QB Race Down To Three • BamaMag (for members only)
I am one of those who will miss Jimmy Barnes. It was revealed over the weekend that the upcoming third-year Alabama quarterback intends to transfer.

• Bama in the NBA: June 10 --->game stats:
Robert Horry blocked 5 shots and...

• Andrew Bone: Alabama still in the mix for Texas prospect • Tuscaloosa News
The favorite school was eliminated by not committing early... 

• Switzer has strong ties to Alabama • Tuscaloosa News
If there’s anyone who knows exactly what University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban means when he talks about the numerous differences between the college and pro games, it’s Barry Switzer.

• Ex-Tide players move on to UWA • Tuscaloosa News
Will Roach and Quentin Bowens never got the chance to play football at the University of Alabama, but now they have a second chance at a school not so very far away. 

• Sports Digest • The Birmingham News
UA FOOTBALL

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Monday, June 11, 2007

• Tide outfielder adds draft pick to accomplishments • Montgomery Advertiser
Emeel Salem's decision to return to Tuscaloosa for his senior season at Alabama paid huge dividends for the Mountain Brook native.

• Jess Nicholas: Takin’ a spin: The offseason’s magnifying glass gets a workout • TideFans.com
There’s little to no college football news in the late spring and through the summer, which is why any nugget of information – whether it’s about this or that recruit qualifying (or failing to do so), an early commitment or an analysis of a rival team that isn’t worth the price of the paper it’s written on – are magnified to the nth degree.

• Former Northview, Alabama standout Jackson still a winner  • The Dothan Eagle
I remember the disappointment when his knee was in a brace as a high school senior — his dreams fading due to a serious injury.

• Florida QB speaks highly of Bama • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I'm very high on Alabama. I would say that I'm very, very interested in Alabama…"

• Florida DT picks up second SEC offer • Tider Insider (for members only)
This Florida defensive lineman has SEC offers from Alabama and LSU. "I'm looking at all the schools evenly…"

• Green cuts list to lucky seven • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Spain Park defensive star William Green amassed 34 offers thanks in large part to his 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame and 4.5-40 speed. This past weekend Green, who is a member of the Rivals100, cut his list of favorites to the lucky seven finalists for his signature.

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

• SEC explores launching its own TV network • USATODAY
BATON ROUGE — Imagine ESPN not over-covering the NFL, not focusing on the NBA and the NHL and focusing on what many believe is the No. 1 college football conference in the nation minus all those self-serving commercials and anchors.

• Crimson Tide Players Open Summer League Seasons • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama baseball program will be well represented this summer as 10 current players will play for five different summer collegiate leagues across the country.

• Andre Smith Named to 2007 Outland Trophy Watch List • RollTide.com
The Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) announced its Outland Trophy preseason watch list on Tuesday with University of Alabama offensive tackle Andre Smith one of 41 players selected.

• Golfer Joseph Sykora Makes ESPN Academic All-American for 2nd Year in Row • RollTide.com
Daphne native joins Tide swimmers Vlad Polyakov and Apostolis Tsagkarakis on elite men's at-large team.

• 2007 Outland Preseason Watch List • CollegeFootballNews.com
2007 Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List Announced

• Louisiana DB favors Bama, LSU • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I talk to Alabama a lot. Coach [Nick] Saban is there, and he's the best DB coach in college…"

• UA hosts Elite at camp • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Summer camps are often one of the best recruiting tools for a school, and if the attendee list at the UA Elite Camp is any indication, the Crimson Tide had a real opportunity to make an impression on some top basketball recruits. The two-day camp, which occurred last Saturday and Sunday, brought in 45 top prospects including two of the top in-state players for 2008.....

• Smith Only Soph on Preseason Outland Watch • BamaMag
The Football Writer’s Association of America released its Outland Trophy watch list on Tuesday, and Alabama sophomore Andre Smith was among the 41 players listed.

• Is This Answer To Shortage At Linebacker? • BamaMag (for members only)
Looking at the possibility of moving Jimmy Johns to defense

• Jeff Allen Named Head Football Athletic Trainer; Rodney Brown Named Director of Rehabilitation Services • RollTide.com
Jeff Allen has been named head football athletic trainer at the University of Alabama and head athletic trainer Rodney Brown has been named director of rehabilitation services for the athletic program, director of athletics Mal Moore announced Monday. 

• Andrew Bone: Georgia the early leader for top class • Tuscaloosa News
The SEC schools, along with all the other colleges across the country, are off and running securing commitments for the class of 2008 with the University of Georgia as an early leader for the top...

• Two more visits left for Brewer? • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
One of the Sunshine State's top defensive back prospects, a 5-foot-10, 173-pound cornerback, is getting closer to making a decision on his college destination and after trimming his list down to four favorites, the Alabama Crimson Tide remain one of the top candidates for his services.

• Alabama hires trainer, rehabilitation director • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Alabama named Jeff Allen head football athletic trainer Monday and moved Rodney Brown from head athletic trainer to director of rehabilitation services for the athletic program. 

• Paul Finebaum: Love media, and they will love back • Press-Register
Let me see if I've got this straight. 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Tuesday, June 12, 2007

• Bama backup QB Barnes heads to I-AA • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama backup quarterback Jimmy Barnes has decided to leave the Crimson Tide and will transfer to a Division I-AA school.

• COLLEGE SPORTS NOTEBOOK • The Decatur Daily
Alabama football

• Blue-chip OL talks in depth about recruiting  • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I've been to Alabama more than any other school. I'm impressed with Coach Saban and his staff. First of all, they know what they're doing. They have a clear vision. They want to win…"

• Is This Answer To Shortage At Linebacker?  • BamaMag (for members only)
People go to different places to get their sports news. For many Alabama fans, ‘BAMA Magazine and BamaMag.com are good sources. One place I have gotten interesting and sometimes reliable information over the years is at a shoeshine shop a couple of blocks from my office.

• Always Changing • BamaMag
Although Alfred Dupree (ranked No. 37 in the Southwest by Scout.com) says his favorites change frequently, for the time being, he likes Oklahoma State slightly over Texas Tech, LSU, Alabama, Michigan, Texas A&M and North Texas. He says the Cowboys are recruiting him the hardest. 

• Packer makes his mark on and off the field  • BamaMag (for members only)
Willie collects his 3rd SEC offer

• Still in Baseball Mode • BamaMag (for members only)
Rashun Dixon is showcasing his skills on the diamond all over the south.

• Hood adds big-time offers • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
It is easy to get lost in the crowd of talented athletes at St. Paul's Episcopal in Mobile, but stud receiver Destin Hood is differentiating himself just fine. With a big new offer under his belt, the electrifying playmaker has a busy summer planned.

• Board set to review Saban's contract • Tuscaloosa News
University of Alabama trustees are scheduled to meet Thursday afternoon to discuss football coach Nick Saban’s contract, which was sent to the board Wednesday.

• Contract a Step Closer • BamaMag
It's been over six months since Nick Saban was introduced as the new head coach at the University of Alabama, so it's a fair question to ask when his contract will be inked.

• Swimming Duo Earn Academic All-America Honors • RollTide.com
Two University of Alabama swimmers, seniors Vlad Polyakov and Apostolis Tsagkarakis were named to the ESPN the Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-America 2007 Men's At-Large teams it was announced this week. 

• Tide might be close to offering Florida star • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I think Alabama, Auburn and Florida are all close to offering him. Coach [Kirby] Smart from Alabama has been here. He likes him a lot…"

• Top 'Bama OL Camps at Clemson • BamaMag (for members only)
After an impressive performance at the Scout Elite camp in May, one of the top linemen in the state of Alabama camped at Clemson this week. How did the rising star enjoy his visit to Tigertown? CUTigers.com has all the answers in this recruiting update.

• Ramzee Robinson Named Mr. Irrelevant • RollTide.com
Former University of Alabama defensive back Ramzee Robinson has been named "Mr. Irrelevant" by The Commodores Club of the Newport Beach (Calif.) Chamber of Commerce. The 32nd Annual Lowsman Trophy is presented to the last player taken in the National Football League draft. The Huntsville native was the 255th selection in the 207 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, thus earning him this year's award. 

• Three-team race for big-time OL • Tider Insider (for members only)
Will it be Alabama, Florida or Georgia for this elite offensive lineman? Here's what he says about each school's chances…

• Six for Nix • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The Class of 2008 is filled to the brim with superb offensive line talent and the Crimson Tide have made the cut for one of the nation's very best, a five-star offensive tackle out Pennsylvania.

• Pack Offers Udell • BamaMag (for members only)
Tallahassee (FL) Godby cornerback Marcus Udell originally inked with Alabama out of high school in 2006 but failed to qualify academically. He headed to Copiah-Lincoln (MS) Junior College and recently picked up his first scholarsh