Bama in the News

June 15 - 21, 2009

• Ian R. Rapoport: Is Alabama hoops coach Anthony Grant's first victory coming in the form of a new practice facility? • al.com
On Friday, when the Alabama System Board of Trustees meet in the Bryant Conference Center, there will be at least one extremely interesting basketball item to discuss. 

• Gentry Estes: Alabama adds San Jose State as tentative opener to 2010 schedule (UPDATED) • al.com
Alabama will welcome San Jose State to Bryant-Denny Stadium during the 2010 football season, a SJSU spokesman confirmed to the Press-Register.

• Gentry Estes: UA's proposed $4.5 million basketball practice facility would relocate... • al.com
... women's basketball and volleyball to Foster
Expanding on today's earlier post reporting that UA has finalized a proposal for a new men's basketball practice facility at Coleman Coliseum, here are additional details for that project as well as another related proposal to bring Foster Auditorium back to life.

• Gentry Estes: Trustees to hear resolution for "new men's basketball practice facility" at Alabama • al.com
On the agenda for the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees meetings this week is a resolution to approve a preliminary budget for "Renovation and Expansion of Coleman Coliseum for (a) New Men's Basketball Practice Facility at UA."

• Steve Penn: Derrick Thomas’ son is tackling his own path • Kansas City Star
It’s been the Southeastern Conference versus the Big 12. Crimson Tide versus the Tigers. And for Derrion Thomas, the Tigers have the edge.

• Ronald Carswell talks of competition • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Ronald Carswell, wide receiver from Macon-Westside, Ga., is a recent addition to the Scout.com 300. Carswell earned MVP honors at the Scout.com Combine in Atlanta in the spring and has kept a busy summer. The Tide commitment updated the latest. 

• Linebackers Key To Tide Success • 'BamaMag
Looking ahead at The University of Alabama's Crimson Tide for 2009, one thing stands out...defense! Alabama's defense finished as one of the nation's premier defenses in 2008.

• Latest Class of 2010 Guess • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
Here are the rules in putting this group together. We are going to limit the total number to 29 and here is how we arrive at that number: the 28 new signees allowable under the recently passed SEC rule plus we are going to backcount one spot. We signed 29 last year but let’s assume—always -dangerous—that Murphy and Preyear backcounted and that Bowman, Lacy and Sentimore won’t qualify. 29 - 5 = 24. So let’s go ahead and put a limit at 29. If you are allowed to include 31 or 35 names, the game gets too easy. So, as of today, here is my best guess with comments: 

• Around the schedule: Defensive backs • BamaOnLine
BamaOnLine.com is scouring Alabama's 2009 football schedule to bring you a look at the top opposing players UA will face this season. The “Around the Schedule” series continues with a look at the top defensive backs. Julio Jones and UA’s passing attack will get some stiff challenges this fall, but none stiffer than the one coming October 24th. 

• RECRUITING NOTEBOOK: Watch List safety Williams eyeing Tide, Tigers • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Safety Jarrick Williams (Prichard/M.T. Blount) still seems to be on the fence about which in-state school he likes more. 

• Prized Texas linebacker feels affinity toward Tide • Crimson Confidential
Under Armour All-America and ESPNU 150 Watch List linebacker Shaun Lewis (Missouri City, Texas/Hightower) feels some indebtedness toward Alabama. 

• Andrew Bone: Recruits impressed with Tide camp • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama had a busy week as hundreds of high school players were on campus for the Tide’s first summer camp. Several of Alabama’s top football prospects were in Tuscaloosa taking unofficial visits or participating in the camp for one or more days.

• Rogers and Holcombe Named to USA Softball National Team • RollTide.com
Alabama Duo Continue Careers on International Stage 

• Savage Named Radio Color Analyst for Alabama Football • RollTide.com
Jim Carabin, General Manager of Crimson Tide Sports Marketing, announced the hiring of Phil Savage on Monday as the new radio color analyst for the University of Alabama football games. Savage will... 

• Hunter Hamrick Captures Alabama Amateur Championship • RollTide.com
Hamrick finished at 5-under-par 282 to win by five strokes 

• A look back at the 2008-09 Alabama Women's Golf Season • RollTide.com
The Crimson Tide finished 11th at the NCAA Championships and second at the NCAA East Regional and SEC Championships 

• A Look Back at the Crimson Tide 2008-09 Men's Golf Season • RollTide.com
Alabama finishes 15th at NCAA Championships after winning the NCAA Northeast Regional 

• Tide's Hamrick wins Amateur championship • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | University of Alabama golfer Hunter Hamrick fired a final round of 5-under-par 67 to claim the 93rd Alabama Amateur Championship at the par-72, 7,267-yard Greystone Golf and Country Club.

• Savage named as radio color analyst • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Jim Carabin, General Manager of Crimson Tide Sports Marketing, announced the hiring of Phil Savage on Monday as the new radio color analyst for the University of Alabama football games. Savage will join Eli Gold (play-by-play) and Barry Krauss (sideline) on the Crimson Tide Sports Network this fall, which reaches more than 50 stations in Alabama and around the South.

• Bama’s Rogers, Holcombe earn spot on USA National Team • Tuscaloosa News
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. | The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) announced Monday the three teams that will represent USA Softball Women’s National team program during the 2009 summer season.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Eli Gold, on new radio color analyst Phil Savage's A-Day performance: "He was scary good." • al.com
When Phil Savage was announced Monday as the new color analyst for the Crimson Tide Sports Network, it meant fans would have the opportunity to listen to a new voice. A new perspective. 

• Stabler's replacement named • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama coach Nick Saban first met Phil Savage nearly 20 years ago when Savage was a young defensive assistant for the Cleveland Browns.

• Alabama, Auburn raise football season ticket prices • The Birmingham News
The price of season tickets is going up slightly this year at Alabama and Auburn. 

• Paul Finebaum: Leaving best thing for Moore • The Press Register
Imagine for a moment you're Mal Moore. You have just stood in front of the bright lights and flashing cameras again — posing in your best Mount Rushmore gape — to discuss the University of Alabama's penalties from the NCAA.

• Savage named color analyst for Tide • The Press Register
When he was a kid, Phil Savage dreamed of being an announcer. At age 44, his dream is coming true. 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• SEC Has Eight Named to USA Softball Teams • SEC Sports
SEC Has Eight Named to USA Softball Teams

• Tide football season ticket price up 3% • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
A Southeastern Conference West Division title and a Sugar Bowl appearance won’t cost Alabama fans too much this …

• Savage joins Gold in Tide football broadcast booth • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
From the front office to the broadcaster booth, Phil Savage took the non-traditional route to his new …

• Ex-Browns GM named Alabama color analyst • Dothan Eagle
Crimson Tide Sports Marketing general manager Jim Carabin announced Monday that Savage will replace Ken Stabler in the fall.

• Phil Paramore: Appeal isn’t right step • Dothan Eagle
Much of the hoopla surrounding Alabama’s punishment from the NCAA over the textbook scandal has died down. It appears it will remain that way. That is, unless the Crimson Tide administration elects to bring it up again.

• In-state star claims no favorite • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I'm keeping all of my options open," says one of the state's top prospects, who holds offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Clemson, Duke, FSU, Oklahoma, Southern Miss, Stanford and Tennessee, among others.

• JUCO defender visits UA; Tide in top two • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I had been to Alabama for a Junior Day back in high school, but my feelings changed on this trip."

• Mammoth Miami OL raves about UA camp • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
When Jonathan Ragoo says that he liked the Alabama football camp, he means it. In fact, Ragoo, a 6-7, 349-pound offensive guard from Monsignor Pace HS in Miami, was so eager to get to the camp that he arrived in Tuscaloosa a day early.

• Bama eyeing junior TE • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
It's not often that a tight end has the chance to be the top prospect in a talent-rich state like Georgia, but it may happen for 6-6, 230-pound Jay Rome of Valdosta. 

• Tuesday State Rankings • 'BamaMag
The Scout.com Pre-season State Rankings for the Class of 2010 will be released over the next two weeks. Today, California, Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin are unveiled. 

• SEC Preview: Arkansas • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
Wooo pig 

• What Now? • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
Now that the sanctions are handed down, what can we expect from here on out? 

• Tide targets JUCO WR • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Wide receiver Kenbrell Thompkins didn't receive much attention during high school but since enrolling in junior college, Thompkins has matured into a 6-foot-3, 190-pound playmaker. Find out where Alabama stands with this fast-rising star... 

• Ambles cuts list, Tide in the mix • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After a week out west that saw him visit multiple big-time PAC-10 programs, Henry County wide receiver Markeith Ambles has returned him with a final list of 16 schools that he plans to cut again within a week.

• Elite RB talks Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are always on the look out for another elite running back and there are few backs in the 2010 recruiting class that have received more attention than Fort Lauderdale (FL) St. Thomas Aquinas star Giovanni Bernard. 

• From Will's Desk: The Four of the Floor (video included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
You only thought you were caught up in the world of Alabama football recruiting.

• Alabama Announces Football Game With San Jose State • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama and San Jose State University football teams will meet for the first time on Saturday, September 4, 2010, at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The game will serve as the 2010 season o... 

• Alabama will appeal NCAA sanctions • Tuscaloosa News
Witt calls penalties excessive

• Ian R. Rapoport: Georgia State coach Bill Curry, on facing his former team: • al.com
"We just didn't want to pass up this chance."
I'm not going to lie. When we received the release about Alabama making its San Jose State game official for 2010, I overlooked a pretty important note slotted down at the bottom of the email. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama President Robert Witt: "We are in the process of preparing our Notice of Appeal." • al.com
We mentioned earlier today that Alabama officials were planning to appeal the NCAA's ruling on its violations of textbook disbursement policy. Well, just a few minutes ago, we received the official word from Dr. Robert Witt. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama coach Nick Saban: • al.com
"We look forward to opening the new Bryant-Denny Stadium in 2010 with San Jose State."
As you may have read yesterday, there was a plan in place for Alabama to play San Jose State in the 2010. Now, both schools have made it official. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama to appeal NCAA verdict on textbooks... • al.com
When Alabama President Robert Witt and AD Mal Moore discussed the NCAA's ruling on textbook violations, they left the door open for an appeal.

• Gentry Estes:  Alabama will appeal NCAA's ruling on textbook case • al.com
The University of Alabama will appeal sanctions handed down last week by the NCAA Committee on Infractions for major violations stemming from the school's textbook investigation.

• Gentry Estes: UA announces 2010 football game against former Tide coach Bill Curry's new program at Georgia State • al.com
A day after after confirmation was reached on a 2010 season opener against San Jose State, Alabama has now announced all four non-conference games for the 2010 season.

• Gentry Estes: SEC announces future sites for basketball tournaments • al.com
The Southeastern Conference announced today it has awarded Nashville the 2013 men's basketball tournament and Atlanta the 2014 event.

• SEC Track and Field Notebook - Final 2009 • SEC Sports
SEC Track and Field Notebook - Final 2009

• 6/17 Roundtable - The Sleeper BCS Title Team • College Football News
What teams that no one is talking about has an honest shot at playing for the national title? It's the Wednesday topic in the CFN Daily Roundtable Discussion.

• Alabama Has Reasons To Appeal Penalties • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Could it have been any other way? Alabama announced Wednesday that it will appeal the sanctions imposed by the NCAA Committee on Infractions last week. 

• Punter visits Tuscaloosa • 'BamaMag
Tide looking at special teams.

• What a difference a day makes • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Prior to last weekend it wasn't really clear where Oklahoma stood with Columbus (Ga.) Brookstone school four-star tight end Brian Vogler. After returning home, the Rivals250 star is down to the Sooners and Crimson Tide for his college destination.

• UA to appeal NCAA penalties • BamaOnLine
The University of Alabama will appeal the NCAA penalties announced last week for failures in its textbook distribution system.

• Bama announces intentions to appeal NCAA ruling • Crimson Confidential
Last Thursday, Robert Witt and Mal Moore gave the impression it was coming. 

• Tide to open 2010 season against San Jose State • Crimson Confidential
OK, so it won't exactly be Clemson and Virginia Tech. 

• Hope and Concern: Alabama • Crimson Confidential
The summer months can be a pretty dead time for college football. But I prefer to look...

• Bud Cauley named to All-Nicklaus Team • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | After one of the most successful freshman seasons in the University of Alabama's golf history, Bud Cauley received yet another honor on Tuesday when the Golf Coaches Association of America named him to the 2009 All-Nicklaus Team.

• Tide adds San Jose State to 2010 schedule • Tuscaloosa News
Univeristy of Alabama will host San Jose State in football in 2010, according to a report Tuesday by the San Jose Mercury-News.

• Giants call up former Tide player Matt Downs • Tuscaloosa News
SAN FRANCISCO | The San Francisco Giants have sent down struggling second baseman Emmanuel Burriss.

• Matthes signs with Colorado Rockies • Tuscaloosa News
According to official Colorado Rockies Web site, former Univeristy of Alabama outfielder Kent Matthes reached a contract agreement with the Rockies on Tuesday.

• Cecil Hurt: Savage steps into an ever changing role • Tuscaloosa News
Now that Phil Savage has been officially designated to take over as the color analyst for University of Alabama football’s radio broadcasts, it might be an interesting time to reflect on just how that role has evolved — and will continue to evolve.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Former Heisman candidate Chase Daniel on Greg McElroy: • al.com
"He's like a sponge ... that's what makes him so good."
Alabama junior Greg McElroy spent the last three seasons on the sidelines, signaling in plays and learning. Yet when his opportunity came in the spring, the former backup quarterback to John Parker Wilson quickly took control of the quarterback battle. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama could debut newly renovated Bryant-Denny Stadium vs. San Jose State in 2010... • al.com
The obvious plan is for the newly renovated Bryant-Denny Stadium to debut for the opener in 2010. Duh.

• Chris's Blog - Tuesday June 16th, 2009 • Chris Stewart Sports
9:20 p.m. - A few thoughts while watching the College World Series...

• Former Heisman candidate Chase Daniel sees stardom for former protege McElroy • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA -- Before he took the reins of Texas prep powerhouse Southlake Carroll, Greg McElroy wasn't just charged with learning a complex, high-intensity offense.

• Sports Digest • The Birmingham News
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Tide to open with San Jose St. in'10: 

• UA talks practice facility for basketball team • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - The University of Alabama is close to granting new coach Anthony Grant's wish for a men's basketball practice facility.

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• Tide coach's wish may be granted • The Huntsville Times
Proposal callsfor $4.5M practicefacility for UA men 

• SEC Announces Sites for MBB, WBB Tournaments • SEC Sports
SEC Announces Sites for MBB, WBB Tournaments

• SPORTS BRIEFS: UA trustees to consider new hoops workout facility • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- The University of Alabama System board of trustees is expected to consider a preliminary budget for building a men's basketball practice facility on the Tuscaloosa campus. 

• SEC Blogger Roundtable Discussion, Part 3 • College Football News
Who is the most overrated player in the SEC? Who is the most underrated player in the league? Which teams are going to crash and burn in 2009? Our SEC Bloggers take on these topics and more in the third installment of their Roundtable discussion.

• NEW ... 2009 CFN Alabama Preview • College Football News
Preview 2009 - Alabama Crimson Tide

• Bama in the race for Oklahoma blue-chipper • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"Alabama is very much in the picture. I haven't narrowed my list down yet, but I am going to do it on July 4th. Alabama is going to be in my top five."

• TI TV for June 16 • WVUA-TV
See it on WVUATV.com, the home of Tider Insider TV.

• Is Opelika standout close to a decision? • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Reports have been that Opelika running back Corey Grant is closing in on his decision. Is he close? 

• Wednesday State Rankings • 'BamaMag
The Scout.com Pre-season State Rankings for the Class of 2010 will be released over the next two weeks. Today, Alabama, Iowa, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Texas state rankings are unveiled. 

• Gators Lead the Pack • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Markeith Ambles talks about his three favorite SEC teams and a couple of programs out west.

• Nick Perry hangs in Tuscaloosa • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Unoffcial visit turns to recruiting.

• Cobbs high on the Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Rivals100 athlete DeMarco Cobbs is squarely in the middle of Big 12 territory, but the 6-foot-1, 205-pound blue-chip star has tremendous interest in a number of programs outside of the midwest - including the Crimson Tide.

• Rising Peach DT visiting UA • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's annual O-Line/D-Line Camp kicks off this Saturday, and one of the prospects with plans to attend is one of the fastest rising stars in the state of Georgia with over 20 offers.

• Video Interview: Sanders talks Tide, recruiting • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Noxubuee County Rivals250 athlete Vincent Sanders just took the first plane ride of his life to USC to work out for the Trojans, and Rivals caught up with the top Tide target to get his thoughts on recruiting, upcoming trips and his preferred position. 

• Bama still in mix to earn official visit from UA All-America Hicks • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Under Armour All-America linebacker Jordan Hicks (West Chester, Ohio/Lakota West) has decided on three of his official visits.

• RECRUITING ANALYSIS/Q&A: Austin Shepherd (video included) • Crimson Confidential
Austin Shepherd (Suwanee, Ga./North Gwinnett) hasn't been in the news in a while. 

• What does vacating wins really mean? • Crimson Confidential
I've had several questions from fans wondering what it means for other teams in the SEC now that...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Tide's top prospect Dre Kirkpatrick tells coach he's finished classwork • al.com
Cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick is good to go.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Nick Saban lays out his ideal blueprint for nonconference scheduling... • al.com
I think I've been pretty clear in the past that one thing I really appreciate is that when you ask Nick Saban a question, you really, really get an answer.

• Gentry Estes: Update: Dre Kirkpatrick expected to enroll at UA next month • al.com
Blue-chip Gadsden football prospect Dre Kirkpatrick appears to have cleared a final academic hurdle to be able to enroll at the University of Alabama.

• Resuming the Countdown: 48 Days Until Showtime • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
I am not picking that 48 number out of the air. In fact, with yesterday’s announcement that practice will begin August 6th (I assumed it would be the tenth) it is 48 days until practice starts. H-o-l-y m-o-l-y. No wonder its so hot outside. 

• Kirkpatrick gets the word • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama cornerback signee Dre Kirkpatrick had an academic snag that prevented him from enrolling at UA for the first summer school session earlier this month. BamaOnLine.com updates the five-star's situation, and the news is good for the Gadsden City prospect.

• Watch List receiver Prater high on Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
It's a crowded field, for sure, but Alabama appears to definitely be in the picture for ESPNU 150 Watch List receiver Kyle Prater (Hillside, Ill./Proviso West).

• Ohio kicker considering Crimson Tide • Crimson Confidential
Alabama's already got a commitment from one kicker -- Cade Foster (Carroll, Texas/Southlake). 

• Downs gets the call to go up • Tuscaloosa News
Former Tide, Bibb County standout settling in after being called up from Triple-A to play for the Giants

• Administrators show support for Moore • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The president of the University of Alabama and the chairman of its board of trustees on Thursday expressed support for Athletics Director Mal Moore.

• UA’s Matthes a consensus All-American • Tuscaloosa News
Former Alabama right fielder Kent Matthes added two more All-America honors to his already impressive list, being named consensus All-America.

• Position-by-position look at the 2009 Tide • Tuscaloosa News
Depth chart, you say? Well ... that's why there is a question mark. While you'll never hear coach Nick Saban use the term, we here at TideSports gathered some information on who is returning and who will be battling for playing time at each position for the 2009 Alabama Crimson Tide. Click on each target to get information on each position.

• Kassi Price recognized for academic achievements • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Kassi Price, who completed her junior season with the University of Alabama gymnastics team, has been named to the ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-America Women’s At-Large First Team.

• Cecil Hurt: Saban ties up loose ends before vacation • Tuscaloosa News
On Thursday, University of Alabama head football coach Nick Saban did what a lot of people who are about to get a well-deserved vacation like to do. He cleared up as much old business as he could before getting out of town.

• Christopher Walsh: T-News rankings: College Football Hall of Fame inductions • Tuscaloosa News
It's pretty much a given that the best people at things win the most awards.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Nick Saban lays out his ideal blueprint for nonconference scheduling... • al.com
I think I've been pretty clear in the past that one thing I really appreciate is that when you ask Nick Saban a question, you really, really get an answer. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: A sweet new suite for Alabama coach Nick Saban? • al.com
Nick Saban gets new digs...
So, there was something relatively interesting that came out of Thursday's meeting of the Alabama System Board of Trustees besides President Robert Witt's comments about AD Mal Moore. 

• Gentry Estes: Mal Moore: "We're doing this appeal with every intention of winning." • al.com
The Press-Register's Mike Herndon caught up with Alabama athletics director Mal Moore at last night's meeting of the Baldwin County chapter of the Alabama National Alumni Association in Fairhope to get his take on a number of issues.

• Gentry Estes:  Trustees grant committee approval for three UA athletics projects, ... • al.com
... including a $1.3 million upgrade for the football complex
The Physical Properties Committee of UA System Board of Trustees unanimously approved three proposals this afternoon that involved million-dollar contruction efforts for Crimson Tide athletics.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Nick Saban supports Witt's call to appeal NCAA sanctions • The Birmingham News
He's a fighter: Nick Saban before the start of the April 2009 A Day game.
Look on the bright side. There are some good reasons for Alabama to appeal its NCAA sanctions from Bookgate, as the school has announced it will. 

• Alabama adds Georgia State and coach Billy Curry to its 2010 schedule • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama officially finalized the nonconference portion of its 2010 schedule, including one game against a team coached by a familiar face.

• UA's Witt gives Moore full support • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - In the wake of a second NCAA probation under Mal Moore's watch, University of Alabama President Robert Witt on Thursday offered the athletics director his full-throated support. 

• Tide AD Moore has Witt's, trustees' support • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - In the wake of the University of Alabama's latest NCAA sanctions, school president Robert Witt isn't wavering publicly on the man in charge of the Crimson Tide's athletics department.

• UA to upgrade football complex • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - Improvements to Alabama football coach Nick Saban's office suite were part of a $1,327,748 enhancement to the football complex approved Thursday by a committee of the UA System Board of Trustees. 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• Witt backs Moore after NCAA blow • The Huntsville Times
School president lauds AD despite second brush with sanctions 

• Tim Gayle: NCAA rulings bring out the fans in us • Montgomery Advertiser
If there's one thing I keep learning from covering NCAA decisions handed down by the Committee on Infractions, it's how easy you can spot a fan a mile away.

• Vigor RB turns in good camp at UA • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"Coach Saban told me that I did real well," says Vigor running back Jalston Fowler, who is committed to Alabama. "He said that I catch the ball really well. He likes my hands."

• NC star names Bama his top school • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I would say Alabama is probably my top school right now," says this 6-3, 261-pound tight end/defensive from the state of North Carolina. "I'm going to visit Alabama later this summer."

• Deshler DB slated to visit again on Saturday • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Fans in the Tuscumbia area have been raving for a long while about Deshler standout defensive back Deion Belue. Belue's performance at Alabama's camp last week has everybody talking now. 

• ScoutTV: Sims 7on7 Highlights • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Highlights of Gainesville (Ga.) quarterback Blake Sims at last week's North Gwinnett 7on7 passing tournament. 

• Punter visits Tuscaloosa • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Tide looking at special teams.

• ScoutTV: GA Athlete Victor Beasley • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Victor Beasley has emerged out of the state of Georgia and he is one of the hottest recruits in the state. Alabama recently offered and Auburn did as well. Check out the video on this talented athlete here.

• ScoutTV: Special Lattimore Interview • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Highlights and interview with Byrnes running back Marcus Lattimore

• Jones among headliners for busy UA weekend • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama football facilities expect to be hopping this weekend with the Tide's OL/DL and 7on7 team camp taking place. Although the visitor's list is much smaller than the first four-day camp two weeks ago, several gems, such as Rivals250 prospect Delvin Jones, will be in Tuscaloosa. 

• Video: Blake Sims a dual threat star • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After Tide commit Blake Sims decided that he will focus on receiver or defensive back at the Capstone, fans were curious to see clips of the dual-threat start utilizing his 10.6 100 meter speed. In this premium video feature, see Sims use his pure athleticism to make ...

• Tide hoping to land impact safety • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
With Alabama needing immediate secondary help following next season, one of their top targets at safety is Georgia Military College star Jakar Hamilton. This weekend, Hamilton plans to be in Tuscaloosa.

• DB talks Tide camp  • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Plenty of schools have been vying for defensive back Tony Grimes' attention this summer but last weekend it was the Alabama Crimson Tide who had his attention as he stopped by Tuscaloosa for the Tide's summer camp.

• Peek remains limited • BamaOnLine
Alabama coach Nick Saban said Thursday that senior tight end Colin Peek, who played through some pain during spring practice with a foot injury, continues to be limited in summer workouts.

• Around the schedule: Specialists • BamaOnLine
BamaOnLine.com's summer series, "Around the Schedule", looks at the top opposing players at each position on the Crimson Tide's 2009 schedule. We continue the series with a look at the top special teams player UA will play against this fall. 

• Previewing the Tide: Running back • BamaOnLine
Previewing the Tide: Running back

• Broadway checks out MSU, LSU camps • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Two weeks ago, Baton Rouge (La.) native Terrance Broadway, who holds an offer from Alabama, took in a couple of camps at SEC Western Division schools.

• McElroy enters '09 as SEC's least experienced starting QB • Crimson Confidential
Of all the projected starting quarterbacks in the SEC this fall, none are more inexperienced than Alabama's Greg McElroy. 

• Tide looking strong in pursuit of Manning, S.C., standouts • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Could Alabama be on course to land a combo package out of Manning, South Carolina? The chances appear to...

• EXCLUSIVE: Will Matthews speaks with Vinny Sunseri, future 2011 superstar • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Before talking with Vinny I really didn’t know how I was going to go about interviewing him. I...

• Ambles loses offer to play in Under Armour All-America game • Crimson Confidential
One of the top prep receivers in the country won't be winning any popularity contests anytime soon. 

• Bama makes top six cut for UA All-America corner • Crimson Confidential
When you've got a guy named Nick Saban helping tutor defensive backs, there's a good chance every top...

• RECRUITING ANALYSIS/INTERVIEW: Cade Foster • Crimson Confidential
He's not your average kicker. And by this time next year, Cade Foster (Southlake, Texas/Carroll) may be Alabama's not-your-average...

• Recruiting 2011:
RB Brent Calloway commits 

• Recruiting 2010:
P Jay Williams and ATH Deion Belue commit

• Top junior saw no reason to wait • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Russellville rising junior Brent Calloway knew that he might get a verbal offer from Alabama head coach Nick Saban this weekend, so the 6-3, 215-pound Calloway came prepared. 

• Andrew Bone: Third commitment for the day • Tuscaloosa News
Brent Calloway, class of 2011 running back from Russellville High School, has committed to the University of Alabama. Calloway is also spotted from the linebacker position.

• ScoutTV: Brent Calloway commits to Alabama • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Brent Calloway, running back from Russellville, Ala., expects to rank as one of the top prospects in the South. Calloway became Alabama's second 2011 commitment. 

• Tide lands 2011 in-state star • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's torrid run of commitments continued today when one of the top athletes in the class of 2011 elected to end his recruitment and commit to Tide Coach Nick Saban.

• Bama nabs third commitment of day, second for '11 class • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
National Alabama Commitment Day rolls on. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: One day, two commitments: Alabama lands in-state CB Deion Belue • al.com
What could have been a random, boring Saturday, well, hasn't been. First, we learned that Alabama earned a commitment from punter Jay Williams.

• Gentry Estes: Deion Belue makes second commitment today for Crimson Tide • al.com
A brief hiatus on recruiting news has certainly ended for Alabama, which has landed its second commitment of the day. 

• Deshler star talks about commitment • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Earlier this week TI reported that Tuscumbia-Deshler cornerback Deion Belue would be making a return trip to Tuscaloosa with his parents. Belue, who participated in Alabama's camp last week, didn't know today's visit to UA would end up like it did. 

• Andrew Bone: Top rising cornerback makes decision. • Tuscaloosa News
Deshler head coach John Mothershed confirmed Deion Belue has given his verbal pledge to the Crimson Tide.

• Alabama lands commitment No. 2 of the day • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Deion Belue, cornerback from Tuscumbia-Deshler, Ala., received a scholarship offer from Alabama after the Tide's summer camp. He planned to wait to make a decision, but decided to end to the recruiting process. 

• Tide lands in-state star • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Heading into the 2010 recruiting season the secondary was a top priority for Nick Saban. So far this year Alabama has an early start on one of the nation's top classes at that position and Saturday that roll continued when they Tide landed another top prospect for the defensive backfield.

• Bama picks up second commitment of the day as Deshler cornerback pledges • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Make that two in one day for Alabama. 

• Andrew Bone: Tide lands punter • Tuscaloosa News
Jay Williams, Scout.com four-star kicker from Thomasville High School, has decided to play college football for the University of Alabama.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Thomasville punter Jay Williams becomes Alabama's 14th commitment... • al.com
I had stepped away from the computer after posting my article on coach Nick Saban's thoughts on recruiting sites and figured, What news happens on Saturday morning? Serves me right for thinking that.. 

• Gentry Estes: Alabama secures its punter of the future in Thomasville's Jay Williams • al.com
Thomasville punter Jay Williams has accepted a scholarship offer and committed to Alabama, according to Mike McCabe, Williams' coach with the One on One Kicking camp.

• Jay Williams commits to Alabama • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Special teams a priority.

• Thomasville punter commits to Alabama (includes highlights) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Jay Williams (Thomasville/Thomasville) has just committed to Alabama. 

• Recruiting 2010:
P Jay Williams commits

• Tide lands fast-rising punter • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama special teams coach Bobby Williams now has another weapon in his arsenal as one of the fastest-rising punters in the country committed to Alabama Saturday morning.

• For Dixon, football camp a labor of love • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Tony Dixon celebrated his 30th birthday on Thursday night, but made sure that he was on hand to celebrate with 100 or so of his closest friends on Friday morning.

• Doug Segrest: Ex-Tide star Stacy passes on hard-learned lessons • al.com
Siran Stacy in his Tide days. He's on a different mission now: "If you just reach one child, you can change a generation."

• Saban asks for integrity from recruiting sites • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama coach Nick Saban and members of his staff were proactive. 

• Cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick qualifies to attend Alabama • The Press Register
Blue-chip Gadsden football prospect Dre Kirkpatrick appears to have cleared his final academic hurdle to enroll at the University of Alabama.

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Saturday, June 20, 2009
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• Top Tide signee makes the grade • The Huntsville Times
Blue-chip cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick of Gadsen appears to have cleared his final academic hurdle to enroll at the University of Alabama.

• UA president: '100 percent' confidence in Moore • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- University of Alabama President Robert Witt says he has "100 percent" confidence in athlet

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama football
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings waived three free agents, including former Alabama tight end Nick Walker, on Friday. The Vikings also cut quarterback Sean … 

• Punter's recruitment skyrocketing • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
One of the top punters in the state of Alabama for the class of 2010 is Jay Williams from Thomasville High School. The 6-4, 220-pounder has witnessed his recruitment take off after several impressive camp stops at Alabama, Florida and Houston. 

• Rivals100 WR talks UA • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Galena Park (TX) wide receiver DeAndrew White spent the spring watching his offer list climb to well over a dozen of the nation's top programs. The Rivals100 member has plenty of options open to him, including an offer from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

• Bama remains in top eight for Lattimore • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama remains in the running for one of the nation's big-time running backs.
Marcus Lattimore (Duncan, S.C./James F. Byrnes) still has the Crimson Tide in his top eight and plans to narrow his list down by late July. He has more than 20 offers. 

• Ladarius Owens returns from Tuscaloosa • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Ladarius Owens, Scout.com three-star outside linebacker from Bessemer-Jess Lanier, Ala., competed in the 7-on-7 tournament at the University of Alabama. Owens talked about his visit to Tuscaloosa. 

• Davis waiting to hear from UA • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After a stellar performance at Alabama's one-day OL/DL camp on Saturday, mammoth Chester (SC) offensive guard Kalon Davis is now playing the waiting game on whether the Tide will extend him an offer to join an already elite line haul.

• Tide may still have shot at Bessemer linebacker • Crimson Confidential
A lot of Alabama fans wrote off ESPNU 150 Watch List prospect LaDarius Owens (Bessemer/Jess Lanier) over the past several weeks as he seemed to warm up more and more to Auburn and to some degree LSU. 

• Bama to suffer BCS, SEC blows? Not so fast • Crimson Confidential
Now that Alabama's been handed its NCAA punishment, those that relish the sight of a wounded Tide are seeking out ways to capitalize. 

• Tide gets two commitments on busy weekend • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama football program is having a busy weekend with a couple of camps taking place on campus.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Did I say two? I meant three commitments for Alabama: Brent Calloway jumps aboard for 2011 • al.com
Man... I go out to hit golf balls, thinking two 2010 commitments was it for Alabama. I was right. Kinda. 

• Sound Off • The Birmingham News
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Theft is theft and it's wrong: 

• Alabama lands three commitments, including one for 2011 • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama ended a 16-day break from oral commitments with a busy, fruitful recruiting Saturday. 

• Thomasville punter Jay Williams commits to Alabama • The Press Register
Jay Williams' promising career as a punter started during a random moment at practice, one that happened to be noticed by Thomasville coach Jack Hankins.

• Florida football favorite in preseason publications • The Press Register
Florida is the clear choice to win a second straight national football championship this season, according to the Press-Register's annual compilation of preseason magazines. 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Sunday, June 21, 2009
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• Josh Moon: Tide, Tiger fans should demand better matchups • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama and Auburn fans are suckers. 

• Nearly 1,500 meet Wilson • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
In 2005, Alabama freshman quarterback John Parker Wilson tossed his first …

• SC star shines at OL camp • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Several big guys were in Tuscaloosa on Saturday taking part in Alabama's lineman camp. One of the biggest was Chester, SC offensive lineman Kalon Davis, a 6-5, 350-pounder. 

• Miami lineman likes Bama's ground-oriented offense • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Not every prep athlete is enamored with the spread offense, run by an increasing number of college teams today. 

• Calloway: Bama "always felt like home" • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Crimson Confidential's Jake Gray was able to catch up with Alabama's newest commitment -- running back/linebacker Brent Calloway (Russellville/Russellville) -- late Saturday.