Bama in the News

June 22 - 30, 2009

• Milton Overton Joins Athletics Department Senior Staff • RollTide.com
Athletics Director Mal Moore announced Monday that Milton Overton has joined the athletic department's senior executive staff. 

• Tyson David Lands on USTFCCCA's All-America List • RollTide.com
The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) recently announced the 2009 USTFCCCA Men's Division I Outdoor Track and Field All-Americans and the Southeastern Conference h... 

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting chat transcript part lll • Tuscaloosa News
Chat transcript part lll (6-17-09)

• Gentry Estes: Latest hire for UA athletics is aimed at technological efforts • al.com
UA has hired Milton Overton, a former Oklahoma offensive lineman who oversaw technology growth and services for seven years at Texas A&M, to its senior executive staff, the school announced today.

• Weekend Rewind • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
With summer college camps going on around the country, it was a busy weekend for commitments beginning early Friday morning. Here is your weekend rewind many of the names who committed and the take of Scout.com's analysts from around the country. 

• Brent Calloway liked first option • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Class 2011 commitment talked of the decision process.

• Maze Doesn't Lack For Confidence • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Upcoming sophomore wide receiver thinks he should catch every ball

• Hamilton talks Tide visit • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
One of the Tide's top secondary targets for 2010 is Georgia Military College safety Jakar Hamilton. This weekend, the big-time hitter visited the Capstone after an impressive visit to Georgia. 

• '92 Tide tops '04 Tigers in poll of state's all-time best • Crimson Confidential
Chalk up another Alabama victory over Auburn.

• All-Time, All-Tide: Center • Tuscaloosa News
This week we take a look at the position that starts it all, the center. The center is the first to put the ball in motion, and a bad snap can mean a very bad day for the offense. Choose the two best centers that have played for the Tide. Tell us who you picked, right here.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Nick Saban's camps, Bobby Bowden... and links! • al.com
The marathon that is the U.S. Open is continuing on our TV screen, with Ricky Barnes wearing the same hat as The Banktress wears and continuing to meltdown. Painful to watch. 

• Commitment to UA a dream come true for Thomasville punter • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Jay Williams didn't plan on being a punter. He became one by chance. In the spring of his freshman year at Thomasville HS in Thomasville, AL, before practice one day Williams was fooling around punting some balls. He didn't know who was watching. 

• Monday State Rankings • 'BamaMag
The Scout.com Pre-season State Rankings for the Class of 2010 will be released through the end of this week. Today, Georgia, Nebraska, New York, and Ohio state rankings are unveiled. 

• Jay Williams talks more of decision • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Punter commitment decided to stay in-state.

• Malone blows up at UA 7-on-7 • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's recent 7-on-7 tournament drew a number of the country's most highly-touted skill players including Crimson Tide commit Keiwone Malone.

• Photo gallery: Top UA targets shine at Cal • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The California Elite Camp featured a strong collection of elite prospects including several top Tide targets such as Keenan Allen and Gabe King. 

• Opelika's Grant torn between Bama, Florida, Auburn • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Opelika running back Corey Grant likes Alabama. And Florida. And Auburn.

• Grant needs to win and be accessible • Crimson Confidential
Alabama's men's basketball program needs to be heard from. 

• Ohio State and USC stay on top, Tide moves up • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | At first glance, the change may not be obvious.

• Cecil Hurt: It’s time Tide resurrects past rivalries • Tuscaloosa News
It wasn’t a slow week for news out of the University of Alabama football complex, even though it is the middle of June. Recruiting, fueled by the recent camps at UA, continued at a surprising pace as Nick Saban’s staff added two commitments on Saturday.

• Tommy Hicks: Things are set to heat up in SEC • The Birmingham News
"Hot enough for ya?" 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Monday, June 22, 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. 

• Saban takes aim at recruiting services • AJC
Alabama coach Nick Saban says reporters for recruiting services should be held accountable for passing incorrect — and possibly damaging — information to potential Crimson Tide recruits.

• Mississippi star shows something at UA camp • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Standout wide receiver/safety Vincent Sanders and some teammates from Macon-Noxubee County, MS were in Tuscaloosa on Saturday participating in the Tide's 7-on-7 camp. The 6-2½, 185-pound Sanders thought the camp went well. 

• Austin Shepherd camps in Tuscaloosa • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Austin Shepherd, Scout.com three-star offensive guard from Suwanee-North Gwinnett, Ga., attended the Alabama OL/DL camp Saturday in Tuscaloosa. Shepherd talked about the time on campus and the possibility of graduating early. 

• Carlos Gray showcases in OL/DL camp • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Defensive tackle continues solid performances.

• Tide's big weekend • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Fans of the University of Alabama's football recruiting efforts could have possibly anticipated a little good news from this weekend's 7on7 and OL/DL camps at the Capstone, but few counted on the huge haul enjoyed by the Tide on Saturday with three big commitments.

• Miami runner’s game translates well to SEC • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Running back Jakhari Gore (Miami, Fla./Christopher Columbus) plays his high school football within jogging distance of the University of Miami, the school where his cousin, Frank Gore, a running back for the San Francisco 49ers, played in the early 2000s. 

• Steelers CB Bryant retires • seattlepi.com
Pittsburgh, PA (Sports Network) - Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Fernando Bryant announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday after a 10-year career.

• Bama in the NFL - Players:
Fernando Bryant retires

• Bert Bank dies at 94 • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Bert Bank, World War II hero, state legislator and Tuscaloosa radio pioneer, died at the age of 94 Monday.

• Ian R. Rapoport: R U serious? This one needs an explanation... • al.com
If you've been reading this page for a while, you're aware of our interest in odd license plates... or car tags, as they've been called since I moved down here.

• Gentry Estes: Crimson Tide hoops to return to Mobile next season Crimson Tide hoops to return to Mobile next season • al.com
Alabama's basketball team, led by first-year coach Anthony Grant, will face Kansas State on Dec. 19 as part of a doubleheader of games that make up year's Coors Classic at the Mitchell Center in Mobile.

• Bama still tri-leader for UA All-America running back Brown • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
The tri-state tug-of-war continues over Under Armour All-America and ESPNU 150 Watch List running back Mack Brown (Lithonia, Ga./Martin Luther King).

• Covering recruiting world a delicate matter • Crimson Confidential
Nick Saban is unhappy with the media. 

• Andrew Bone: Big weekend pulls big recruits for Alabama • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama football program had a big weekend on campus with a 7-on-7 passing tournament and offensive/defensive line camp. Head coach Nick Saban pulled in three commitments away from all the football activities.

• Tide athletics hires new executive staff member • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Univeristy of Alabama’s athletic department has hired Milton Overton from Texas A&M for its senior executive staff.

• Tommy Deas: Ronald McDonald House to honor Stallings • Tuscaloosa News
One of the state's most high-profile charities will recognize the most charitable man I've ever known in a couple of months when former University of Alabama head football coach Gene Stallings is honored by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama adds Milton Overton to its senior staff... what does that mean? • al.com
Earlier today, we got an email announcing the newest hire for the Alabama Athletics Department. Milton Overton, a former Oklahoma offensive lineman, will join the UA senior staff. 

• Kevin Scarbinsky: After coaching at UA or AU, it's all downhill • The Birmingham News
What do Bill Curry, Terry Bowden and Mike DuBose all have in common? 

• Sports Digest • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA ATHLETICS
Alabama hires technology expert: 

• Paul Finebaum: Atlanta radio host says Tide fans need more self-esteem • The Press Register
Remember a few weeks back when Nick Saban called out Alabama fans for not being enthusiastic enough at the Sugar Bowl, thus implying they may have played a role in the 31-17 beatdown by Utah? 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Tuesday, June 23, 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. 

• College Sports Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama athletics TUSCALOOSA — Alabama’s athletic department has hired Milton Overton from Texas A&M for its senior executive staff. Athletic director Mal Moore said Monday that Overton … 

• JUCO safety talks Bama, Georgia • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Jakar Hamilton has said all along that Alabama and Georgia are his favorites. Two weeks ago, Hamilton made an unofficial visit to Georgia. This past weekend, the highly-regarded JUCO safety visited Alabama. 

• Photo Gallery: Alabama commitment Deion Belue • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Deion Belue, cornerback from Tuscumbia-Deshler, Ala., surprised many when he announced a commitment to Alabama this past weekend. Scout.com watched the playmaker in action in a 7-on-7 tourney last week. 

• It will be Bama or UGA for Hamilton • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Final visit for JUCO All-American goes to Alabama...

• SEC preview: Kentucky • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
SEC preview: Kentucky

• Four-star WR talks UA camp • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Four-star wide receiver Vincent Sanders says he plans to take the recruiting process slow, but it's clear the Crimson Tide are working hard to try and land a commitment from the 6-foot-3, 182-pound athlete.

• Madison Central stars interested in Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Madison Central's Bryon Bennett and Carlton Martin spend Friday nights together on the Jaguar defensive line, and the pair are also visiting many of the same colleges this summer. 

• Lindsay working to bring physicality to Alabama • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Offensive lineman Chad Lindsay (The Woodlands, Texas/The Woodlands) committed to Alabama back in early April. Despite other programs still vying for his signature, he remains strong with the Crimson Tide. 

• Tide being undercut by rival recruiting websites? • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Apparently Alabama isn't just battling rival coaches on the recruiting trail. It may be battling rival recruiting websites, too. 

• Alabama athletics book signing event set for Friday • Tuscaloosa News
Legends from the days of Bear Bryant, opinions on the 12 national championships and stories about football tradition are on the minds of Crimson Tide fans, and many have detailed their knowledge in books about University of Alabama athletics.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alonzo Gee preps for Thursday's NBA Draft: "It's been a very, very long, tough process." • al.com
Tomorrow is the NBA Draft, and for those of us in football country, it may come as a surprise. While we were busy with textbook stuff for football and facilities stuff for the current basketball team, the draft arrived. 

• Recruiting notes • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
The bulk of the 2009 class is already in Tuscaloosa working out, but questions still surround the academic standing of Rossville-Ridgeland, GA wide receiver Michael Bowman, Dutchtown-Geismar, LA running back Eddie Lacy and Destrehan, LA defensive lineman Darrington Sentimore. 

• Video: Brent Calloway shows out • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama landed their second commitment of the 2011 class on Saturday when Russellville athlete Brent Calloway pledged to Tide Coach Nick Saban. In this premium video feature, check out Calloway in action from his sophomore year on both sides of the football.

• Meeting the standard on Alabama's offensive line • Crimson Confidential
How Alabama's starting offensive line will shake out in the fall is still anybody's guess.

• Tide OL commits James, Shepherd each bring unique style • Crimson Confidential
JuWaun James and Austin Shepherd. 

• Broadway likes Oregon, but Bama remains in mix • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Quarterback Terrance Broadway (Baton Rouge, La./Capitol) may be high on Oregon right now, but Alabama, despite the fact...

• Bert Bank Passes Away • RollTide.com
Retired Major Bert Bank, one of the state's most prominent figures as a radio pioneer, state senator and civic leader, died Monday night in Tuscaloosa. He was 94.

• Soccer Releases 2009 Schedule • RollTide.com
Second year head coach Todd Bramble announced the 2009 Alabama soccer schedule on Tuesday. The schedule features a total of 18 games, including nine that will be played at the Alabama Soccer Stadiu...

• Cauley Named Golfweek First-Team All-American • RollTide.com
Alabama freshman golfer Bud Cauley continues to collect postseason honors with Golfweek selecting him as a first-team All-American on Monday. 

• Stabler and me • Tuscaloosa News
SONOMA, Calif. | ‘‘So, how you doing, Kenny?'

• Stabler and me, 30 years later • Tuscaloosa News
A lot of water has passed under the bridge since I was set up in Alabama

• Salls will be treated to a special birthday • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | From playing on a national championship football team at the University of Alabama to fighting in World War II to establishing a coaching legacy at Jacksonville State University, Don Salls has accomplished much in his 89 years of life.

• Marcus Campbell hosts eighth annual camp • Tuscaloosa News
LIVINGSTON | Former University of Alabama player Marcus Campbell will host his eighth annual free basketball camp next week at the Nelson R. Hughes Gymnasium at Livingston High School.

• Tide's Cauley named first-team All-American • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama freshman golfer Bud Cauley has been named first-team All-American by Golfweek.

• Cecil Hurt: Bert Bank leaves nothing but good memories • Tuscaloosa News
The most difficult thing in writing about Bert Bank is deciding where to begin.

• Christopher Walsh: It's only one month until we really get going • Tuscaloosa News
For years, the Tuscaloosa News has had the countdown in the upper right corner of the front page, reminding fans how many days it is until football season kicks off. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Local (and national) legend Bert Bank passes away... • al.com
I didn't know Bert Bank. I never had the pleasure. But it's amazing how many lasting memories and positive experiences Bank generated during his 94 years. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Anyone for some random basketball news? • al.com
Despite all evidence to the contrary, there is some non-football stuff to discuss... 

• Gentry Estes: UA mourns the passing of Bert Bank • al.com
I'll admit that I'm too young to have known very much about Bert Bank. And the more I read and hear today about his remarkable life, the more I regret that fact.

• Alabama's Alonzo Gee can't wait to see where his NBA future is • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - Alonzo Gee begins rattling off the names of the cities he's visited for workouts. The voice of the former Alabama guard grows weary.

• Sports Digest • The Press Register
ALABAMA BASKETBALL
Tide gets K-State in Mobile tourney: 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Wednesday, June 24, 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. 

• Chiefs Will Retire Derrick Thomas’ Number • Pro Football Talk
The Kansas City Chiefs announced earlier today that, on December 6, they’ll retire the number of linebacker Derrick Thomas.

• NEWS AND VIEWS: Alabama needs to move on, take responsibility, accept penalty • Montgomery Advertiser
It was nice to see the return of David Duval to the golf spotlight with his tie for second place at the rain-soaked U.S. Open golf tournament . . . 

• Tide football radio founder dies • Dothan Eagle
Former POW, lawmaker was ‘loyal fan and friend’ 

• 6/24 Roundtable - 3 Top Non-Conference Games • College Football News
6/24 Roundtable - The three top non-conference games are ... ? It's the Wednesday topic in the CFN Daily Roundtable Discussion.

• Mississippi pass rusher discusses Bama's camp • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I thought I did really well, especially in the one-on-ones. I got a lot of pressure. I beat my man a lot of times. Coach [Bo] Davis was telling me that I did well. He said that he likes my feet and my quickness." 

• Coty Blanchard continues winning streak • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Coty Blanchard, quarterback from Centre-Cherokee County, Ala., creates a buzz everywhere he goes with his performance. He dominated in Tampa at the Scout.com/New Level Athletics 7-on-7 tournament. It continued at summer camps, and he also lead his team to an undefeated record in Tuscaloosa. 

• Secondary Comes Full Circle: Ranking the DB’s • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
AZRedReport.com ranks the unit that will have a big impact in 2009.

• Buckeye Camp Coming Up • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Tony Grimes remains wide open and looks forward to his Ohio State camp experience.

• Video highlights from Memphis wideout • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Cortez Hudson update

• Random Stuff- June 24, 2009 • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
It’s been a long time since you’ve seen this stuff

• Owens shakes things up • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The recruitment of Jess Lanier linebacker Ladarius Owens has been a classic tug of war between Alabama and Auburn. After a weekend visit to the Capstone for the Tide's 7on7 camp, Owens has shaken up his list of favorites once again.

• Four-star DE sets decision date • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
There is nothing new on the recruiting horizon for four-star defensive end Kaleb Eulls, but the 6-foot-4, 245-pounder from Yazoo County (Miss.) has set his decision date and Alabama is one of several schools battling for his signature.

• SEC breakdown: Non-conference schedules • BamaOnLine
Alabama has one marquee non-conference opponent in Virginia Tech this year, but where does UA's non-con slate rank in the SEC?

• Florida back expects late summer decision, has Bama in mix • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
It seems running back Roy Finch (Niceville, Fla./Niceville) is, metaphorically speaking, cramming the night before the exam. 

• Hokies sell out allotment of tickets for Bama game • Crimson Confidential
Looks like Alabama fans will have their work cut out for them on Sept. 5. 

• Bama still tri-leader for UA All-America running back Brown • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
The tri-state tug-of-war continues over Under Armour All-America and ESPNU 150 Watch List running back Mack Brown (Lithonia,...

• Alabama to face Kansas State in Mobile • Tuscaloosa News
MOBILE | Anthony Grant's first University of Alabama basketball team will face Kansas State in December at the Coors Classic in Mobile.

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting chat transcript • Tuscaloosa News
Chat transcript (6-24-09)

• Ray Melick: Bert Bank's life was one well-lived • The Birmingham News
If you knew the names of Bryant and Jordan and Namath and Musso and Hannah as well as you knew the names of your neighbors while growing up Crimson and White, then you owe a debt of gratitude to Bert Bank.

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Thursday, June 25, 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. 

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Bama basketball team to play Kansas St. in Mobile • Montgomery Advertiser
Anthony Grant's first Alabama basketball team will face Kansas State in December at the Coors Classic in Mobile. The game will highlight a doubleheader on Dec. 19 at South Alabama's Mitchell Center. South Alabama will also meet UAB.

• Wright’s Big Five • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
James Wright says that being in the right type of offense and the school’s academics are the two most important factors in his decision. “I’m looking for a good fit,” Wright said. “I’m not worrying about where the school is located or what the weather is like. Obviously academics are gonna be important. I want a school that will help me achieve what I want to do and get my degree...” 

• Decision coming for Jones • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Memphis (TN) Evangelical Christian star Harrison Jones is one of the nation's top tight end prospects and now the Crimson Tide legacy says he's ready to make his decision.

• Biscuit talks Bama • BamaOnLine
Rivals.com correspondent Brent Beaird caught up with ex-UA standout linebacker Cornelius Bennett for an in-depth Q&A recently. The former Crimson Tide great touched on every subject from his current life ... 

• Tide recruiting massive DT • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Perkinston (Miss.) Gulf Coast C.C. defensive tackle James Carmon had a problem getting noticed out of high school. For a player his size, that's pretty hard to believe.

• Recruiting Q&A/Analysis: Vincent Sanders • Crimson Confidential
Receiver Vincent Sanders (Macon, Miss./Noxubee County) is back from his trip to Southern Cal. 

• Great defense, friendly schedule might save growing offense in Tuscaloosa • Crimson Confidential
When these two got together just over two years ago, Nick Saban and Alabama football, perhaps it truly was the perfect marriage, but mostly because, in retrospect, a merging of their recent imperfections made sense. There was Saban, coming off a failed stint in the NFL, and there was Alabama, leaving behind failed flirtations with the next great coach. 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Town Hall with Eli Gold
Eli Gold, the voice of the Crimson Tide, sits down with Tommy Stevenson to discuss the passing of Bert Bank.

• Ian R. Rapoport: The aftermath of a busy day: What about Alabama's decision regarding its textbook appeal? • al.com
So much for the lazy, relaxing days of summer... Well, maybe they'll arrive next week. 

• Robinson Back from Campus Tour • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Darius Robinson has nearly two dozen scholarship offers to choose from. After taking a recent college tour with some coaches and teammates, Robinson he begun trimming down his options in hopes of making a summer time decision. 

• Cardinals Positional Analysis: Fullbacks • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Andy Bishop examines one of the less appreciated positions on the depth chart

• Rising Junior will be one to watch • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Jahmal McIntosh stands out at Rebel Yell

• Five Guys Who Probably Won’t Win Heisman • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
There're three leaders for the Heisman, but here's who else could be in the mix

• Previewing the Tide: Secondary • BamaOnLine
After giving up six touchdown passes in its final two games of the 2008 season, the Alabama secondary limped into the offseason. BOL staffers Travis Reier and Chase Goodbread take a look at what the 2009 ... 

• Cobbs: "I'm really leaning toward USC right now" • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
The fact that Alabama is expected to make Under Armour All-America athlete DeMarco Cobbs' next cut and make into his final five may not matter.

• Extension makes sense for Alabama, Saban • Crimson Confidential 
The reports out of Alabama on Thursday that preliminary discussions are under way to extend Nick Saban's contract shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. 

• Freshman Duo to Compete at USA Junior National Track and Field Championships • RollTide.com
Two Alabama freshmen on the women's track and field team will be competing June 26-27at the USA Junior Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The Championships will take place Hayward Field, site o... 

• Cecil Hurt: Worst draft day ever for the SEC • Tuscaloosa News
There were plenty of televised distractions Thursday night, most of them connected with Michael Jackson, but for University of Alabama basketball fans who missed the National Basketball Association draft, don't worry. It went just like the previous eight drafts — only worse.

• UA files formal notice of appeal with NCAA • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama has filed a formal notice of appeal with the NCAA that challenges the vacation of 21 football victories, as well as a tennis win and individual records in track and field.

• Alex Kubal signs pro baseball contract • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Former University of Alabama center fielder Alex Kubal has signed a professional baseball contract to play for the legendary St. Paul (Minn.) Saints in the independent Northern League, the club announced Thursday.

• UA freshmen to compete at Junior Nationals • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Two University of Alabama freshmen on the women's track and field team will compete June 26-27 at the USA Junior Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Ore.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama's official appeal on textbooks: • al.com
School will attempt to reclaim 21 vacated wins, will not appeal probation

• Ian R. Rapoport: Who's going to be Alabama's representatives at SEC Media Days? • al.com
Sure, we've got a month before SEC Media Days. But, in case you were wondering, Alabama's representatives slated to join coach Nick Saban at Hoover's Wynfrey Hotel on July 23 are: All-American candidates linebacker Rolando McClain and guard Mike Johnson.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Old-school Alabama photos, an Auburn fan's take... and links! • al.com
While we eagerly wait for tonight's NBA Draft that may or may not be fruitful for Alabama, we took a trip around the Web to see what's going on... 

• Gentry Estes: UA to appeal vacated games -- but not probation -- as a part of the NCAA textbook case • al.com
TUSCALOOSA -- The University of Alabama has filed a Notice of Appeal with the NCAA regarding one of the sanctions levied against the school by the NCAA Committee on Infractions as a result of the textbook case.

• Gentry Estes: Nick Saban has started talks with UA about extending his contract past the 2014 season • al.com
TUSCALOOSA -- Football coach Nick Saban has opened negotiations with the University of Alabama about an extension on his existing contract, sources confirmed today to the Press-Register.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Raise your hand if you think Alabama's Nick Saban has earned a new deal • al.com
Saban salary calculator

• Alabama coach Nick Saban in negotiations with school officials on a contract extension • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama officials and head football coach Nick Saban are in negotiations on a contract extension.

• Alabama officials appeal 21 vacated wins, don't contest probation • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama wants its wins back. 

• Tommy Hicks: No BCS playoff any time soon • The Press Register
In news that offered the same surprise value as another major leaguer testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs or word that Brett Favre has changed his mind about retirement, the BCS presidents voted this week to reject the Mountain West Conference's playoff proposal. 

• Saban, Alabama begin contract negotiations • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - Football coach Nick Saban has opened negotiations with the University of Alabama about an extension on his existing contract, sources confirmed Thursday to the Press-Register.

• Alabama announces appeal decision to vacate victories • The Press Register
TUSCALOOSA - The University of Alabama announced Thursday that it will appeal the forced vacating of 21 football victories from 2005-07, part of the sanctions levied by the NCAA as a result of the textbook case. 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Friday, June 26, 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. 

• Bama, Saban discuss contract • The Huntsville Times
Extension the topic as Tide appeals NCAA forfeitures 

• SEC Sees Another Banner Athletic and Academic Year • SEC Sports
SEC Sees Another Banner Athletic and Academic Year

• Eight SEC Schools Make Final NCBWA Div. I Poll • SEC Sports
Eight SEC Schools Make Final NCBWA Div. I Poll

• UA files notice of appeal with NCAA • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama took the first step toward ap­pealing the June 11 decision by the NCAA Committee on Infractions by fil­ing a notice of appeal with the organization.

• Tide will appeal vacated football wins • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Of the four penalties handed down by the NCAA earlier this month, Alabama is preparing to fight just one. Only 21 …

• Reports: UA, Saban discuss extending contract to ’16 • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
In what is typically the slowest time of the year for Alabama coach Nick Saban, talk of a contract extension has …

• 6/26 Roundtable - What Rule Needs Changing? • College Football News
6/26 Roundtable - What rule would you like to see changed? It's the Thursday topic in the CFN Daily Roundtable Discussion.

• LA playmaker talks favorites • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
The Tide is seeking talented playmakers at the wide receiver position, and one of the best in Louisiana is Jarrett Fobbs of Huntington HS in Shreveport. The 5-11, 180-pounder is sitting with 14 offers, with ones from Alabama, LSU, Missouri, Nebraska, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Texas A&M and Texas Tech.

• Big DT might be closing in on UA offer • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I couldn't be stopped," this big defensive tackle says of his performance at UA's lineman camp last Saturday. "I went against just about everybody they had and nobody could slow me down." 

• Names His Top Six • 'BamaMag
After talking with Scout.com this past weekend Jordan Hicks has now officially released his Top Six schools. 

• Pee Wee Cobb names favorites • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Two SEC schools at the top.

• Players Chosen For SEC Media Event • 'BamaMag
A senior offensive lineman and a junior linebacker will be Alabama’s player representatives at this year’s Southeastern Conference Football Media Days event. Each school is represented by the head coach and two players. SEC Football Media Days is July 22-24 at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover.

• Rising DT talks UA • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's OL/DL camp drew some of the South's most sought-after big men as well as some prospects that have flown under the radar thus far. Shawn Green may be a sleeper but he left camp as one of the strongest players on the field.

• Tide still involved with DE? • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
When Alabama offered a scholarship to Hialeah (FL) defensive end Corey Lemonier earlier this year, the Crimson Tide were immediately among the top contenders for his signature. But as the summer has gone on, is the 6-foot-4, 235-pounder still involved with the Tide?

• UA files notice of appeal • BamaOnLine
The University of Alabama's notice of appeal of NCAA sanctions has been filed, and UA will try to recover 21 vacated football victories from 2005-2007.

• Video: Ronald Carswell takes the field • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
One of the Crimson Tide's two early wide receiver commitments is Westside-Macon star Ronald Carswell.

• From Will's Desk: The Four of the Floor • Crimson Confidential
It's time to get down to the nitty-gritty with four Alabama prospects.

• Report: Saban in negotiations with Alabama officials on contract extension • Crimson Confidential
Looks like the Alabama-Nick Saban marriage is going to last a while. 

• Alabama officially files to appeal vacation of wins • Crimson Confidential
It's official. Alabama is going to fight to keep its victories. 

• Bama target Cobbs drawing attention at USC Rising Stars Camp • Crimson Confidential
One of the top nationally known prospects Alabama is after and in serious contention for is Under Armour...

• Bama checks in at No. 9 in SEC QB rankings • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
From top to bottom, this might be the most inexperienced group of quarterbacks the Southeastern Conference has sent...

• Krystle Schade Named to USA National Team for Pan Am Games • RollTide.com
Alabama freshman high jumper Krystle Schade continued her stellar rookie campaign at the USA Junior Outdoor Track and Field Championships at storied Hayward Field on Saturday by being named to the ...

• Former All-American Andy Phillips Playing in Japan • RollTide.com
Former Alabama All-American Andy Phillips signed a one-year deal Friday with the Hiroshima Carp of the Japanese Central League. 

• ScoutTV: Kyle Prater 7-7 • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
The nation's top receiver in 7-7 action at the University of Illinois

• Hicks Getting Acquainted With Suitors • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
5-star southwestern Ohio linebacker wants to find a college where the people are right

• Magnolia DT continues to dominate at combines • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Cartlon Martin update

• Summer Workouts: McCarron making early impression • Crimson Confidential
It's late June and you've got some serious Alabama football questions.

• Bama, Clemson in tight battle for Watch List cornerback Peters • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Clemson didn't prove to be much competition for Alabama on the field last fall. This summer, however, in a tough recruiting battle over ESPNU 150 Watch List cornerback Garry Peters (Conyers, Ga./Heritage), it's giving the Crimson Tide all it can handle. 

• Recruiting 2010:
S Jarrick Williams commits

• Ex-Yankee Andy Phillips signs with team in Japan • Tuscaloosa News
HIROSHIMA, Japan | Former New York Yankees and University of Alabama infielder Andy Phillips has signed a one-year contract worth $400,000 with the Hiroshima Carp of Japan's Central League.

• Jaxwill without Coger in backfield • Tuscaloosa News
JACKSONVILLE | Jacksonville State coach Jack Crowe says running back Tremayne Coger will not be eligible to play this season.

• Magadan suspended following ejection • Tuscaloosa News
NEW YORK | Boston Red Sox hitting coach Dave Magadan was suspended for Friday night's game at Atlanta and fined following his ejection against Washington this week.

• Andrew Bone: Elite safety commits to Alabama • Tuscaloosa News
Jarrick Williams, Scout.com National 100 safety from Blount High School in Prichard, Ala., has committed to the Crimson Tide.

• Ian R. Rapoport: While you were sleeping... touted safety prospect Jarrick Williams commits to Alabama • al.com
While you were snuggled last night up with your stuffed animals and little pajamas with the feet attached (or something), one highly touted recruit was making a key decision about his future. It came a few minutes before midnight.

• Gentry Estes: Blount's Jarrick Williams commits to Alabama • al.com
In some recruiting news too late for tomorrow's newspaper ...

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Saturday, June 27, 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 came a long way to land Blount star • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
A year ago this time, it didn't look good for Alabama with Jarrick Williams. In fact, the Blount safety, who committed to Alabama late Friday night, was so infatuated with LSU that he fully expected he'd end up in Baton Rouge. 

• National 100 Safety rolls with the Tide • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Jarrick Williams, Scout.com National 100 safety from Prichard-Blount, Ala., has committed to the University of Alabama. The Crimson Tide continues to add to their arsenal of defensive backs, and they received one of the best safeties in the country Friday night. Williams talked about his decision. 

• Rivals100 star commits to Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama recruiting train kept rolling Friday night when one of the top defensive prospects in the country called Tide Coach Nick Saban to end his recruitment.

• UPDATED: Watch List safety Williams commits to Alabama • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama head coach Nick Saban's phone rang Friday night. Maybe he was watching highlight tapes of some 2010 prospects, or maybe he was just sitting in the easy chair watching a movie. 

• Newsome is delighted with UA growth • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | As he sat in the clubhouse at the Ol' Colony Golf Course on Saturday, Ozzie Newsome wore the smile of a man who is enjoying his life.

• Marcus Campbell hosts eighth annual camp • Tuscaloosa News
LIVINGSTON | Former University of Alabama player Marcus Campbell will host his eighth annual free basketball camp next week at the Nelson R. Hughes Gymnasium at Livingston High School.

• Cecil Hurt: Crimson Tide saps suspense out of recruiting • Tuscaloosa News
If Nick Saban was a judge on 'American Idol,' he would probably smack Simon Cowell around for a bit, then announce the winner of the competition after the first show.

• Ray Melick: More NCAA violations? You can bet on it • The Birmingham News
If you are one of those people who just can't seem to enjoy watching anything to do with sports unless you have some money riding on the outcome, here's one more piece of action for you:

• Blue-chip safety Jarrick Williams commits to UA near midnight • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Jarrick Williams had finished a night of 7-on-7 passing camp. As soon as it concluded, he began thinking about where he wanted to attend college.

• Sound Off • The Birmingham News
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Mudslinging goes both ways: 

• Blount safety Williams commits to Saban, Alabama • The Press Register
Saying he was tired of answering the phone, Blount safety Jarrick Williams called Alabama coach Nick Saban on Friday night and gave his verbal commitment to Alabama.

• Prospects kick it into another gear at Rivals.com football combine • The Press Register
It was a fast track at Spanish Fort High School for Saturday's Rivals.com football combine, as many of the 140 athletes on hand turned in some breathtaking 40-yard dash times.

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Sunday, June 28, 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. 

• Stars come out in Mobile • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Saturday's Elite Action Combine event in Mobile was a showcase for one of the most talent-rich cities in the country, and two of the best on hand were Tide commits Jalston Fowler and Marvin Shinn of Vigor. 

• Bama's chances with Beasley becoming hot topic • Crimson Confidential
Vic Beasley (Adairsville, Ga./Adairsville) talk is heating up.

• Alabama ranks 30th in Directors’ Cup rankings • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama ranked 30th out of 278 NCAA Division I athletic programs in the final 2008-09 Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup standings, which were released Monday.

• All-Time, All-Tide: Safety • Tuscaloosa News
It's time to look at the final defense position for the All-Time, All-Tide team. Pick the two best safeties to play for Alabama and check back Friday to find out who own.

• UA's Schade named to USA National Team for Pan Am Games • Tuscaloosa News
EUGENE, Ore. | University of Alabama freshman high jumper Krystle Schade continued her stellar rookie campaign at the USA Junior Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Hayward Field on Saturday by being named to the USA National Team.

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting chat transcript part lll • Tuscaloosa News
Recruiting chat transcript part lll

• Tommy Deas: UA can do better • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama athletic program ranked 30th in the final 2008-09 Learfield Sports Directors' Cup standings, which on the surface doesn't look too bad.

• Ian R. Rapoport: What else did Alabama DC Kirby Smart say this weekend? • al.com
If you were interested in the comments made by Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart posted in a previous entry, you're in luck. Smart wasn't finished. 

• McCoy Hopes For Increased Role • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Mike McCoy has one more season to have that “breakout year” he has been looking for since 2006, when then-Coach Mike Shula wasted the true freshman by playing him in three games for a total of five snaps. 

• Scout.com/GAVSV Football Banquet • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
The Scout.com/GAVSV.com College Football Annual Kickoff Party took place Friday night in Rome, Ga.

• Smith's playing it cool • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Five-star DL Garrison Smith talks a little recruiting with Scout...

• 1992 / 2009: Copeland vs. Washington • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Lorenzo Washington enters his final season at Alabama as part of what is expected to be a dominating defense. BamaOnLine.com's 12-part series comparing this defense with that of the 1992 national champs opens with a look at Washington and his 1992 counterpart, John Copeland. 

• Grant talks hoops  • BamaOnLine
Alabama basketball coach Anthony Grant took a few questions Monday on the Southeastern Conference summer teleconference.

• UA All-America corner still thinking December decision • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
It’s been nearly an everyday occurrence so far this summer. 

• Michael Oher film brings Saban to the big screen • Crimson Confidential
ATLANTA -- With his arms crossed, wearing a gray sports coat, Nick Saban leaned toward the computer screen on his desk and shook his head. 

• Grant: Nothing definitive yet on eligibility status of signees • Crimson Confidential
There's obviously going to be a fresh face on the bench during Alabama basketball games this coming up...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart: "Our biggest concern is senior leadership, but..." • al.com
This was a strange weekend. It really was. It began when a top-notch recruit made a long-awaited commitment not in the hot lights of the local media but in the shrouds of darkness at midnight. Remember Jarrick Williams? 

• Ray Melick: Nick Saban should stop whining, keep signing • The Birmingham News
According to Scout.com, the Tide's current commitment list ranks second best in the country. 

• UA could learn from Fla. State's experience • The Birmingham News
The details in the Alabama and Florida State NCAA major infractions cases are vastly different. 

• Tommy Hicks: It's Florida in East; West clearly up in the air • The Press Register
There are many reasons the Florida Gators are the overwhelming pick to win the SEC and national championship this season. 

• 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. 

• Miami OL still looking at five • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
One of the South's top offensive line prospects is Torrian Wilson of powerhouse Northwestern HS in Miami. The 6-4, 290-pounder has close to 15 offers, including ones from Alabama, Florida, Georgia Tech, Louisville, Miami, Michigan, Tennessee and UCLA. Other schools expressing interest include Florida State, Ohio State and USC. Wilson is fixed on five schools. 

• Corey Grant unstoppable in tourney • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Corey Grant, Scout.com four-star running back from Opelika, Ala., was unstoppable in the 7-on-7 camp held at Oxford High School. This is the type of playmaker schools like Alabama, Auburn and Florida are hoping to add to their class. He talked about the schools and when a decision is expected. 

• Photo Gallery: Oxford HS 7-on-7 • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Several teams in Alabama competed in local tournament.

• Photo Gallery: Robertsdale 7-on-7 • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
A collection of images taken from passing tournament.

• Magnolia DT continues to dominate at combines • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Cartlon Martin update

• Shepherd still solid with Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama Crimson Tide have made the line of scrimmage a major priority when it comes to recruiting and last week at the Tide's offensive line/defensive line camp, several of the Tide's top offensive line prospects were on hand to showcase their skills, including Alabama commit Austin Shepherd.

• Former coaches laud Carpenter • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
James Carpenter will try to fill Andre Smith's Outland Trophy-winning shoes as Alabama's left tackle this fall. How ready is he?

• Recruiting Analysis/Q&A: Wilson Love • Crimson Confidential
He's already committed to Alabama.

• Pondering Alabama's dream home-and-home series opponent • Crimson Confidential
Alabama hasn't played Notre Dame since 1987. 

• Bama target Lattimore postpones Penn State trip • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Looks like Alabama won't have to worry about a Penn State surge in the recruitment of Marcus Lattimore...

• Alabama softball coaching staff honored • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama softball coaching staff has been named South Region Coaching Staff of the Year by the National Fastpitch Coaching Association.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Batman, er, Anthony Grant speaks on all things Alabama basketball • al.com
While we've been chasing around football news for most of the summer, Alabama basketball coach Anthony Grant has been quietly getting acclimated to his new job. It hasn't been all fun and games. 

• Junior WR likes the SEC • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Even though he's played only one year of high school football, wide receiver Darien Thomas is already being tabbed as one of the state's top prospects for 2011. 

• 2011 defensive end picks up two SEC offers • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
He put his name on the map at the Scout.com Combine in Atlanta, Ga. earlier this spring and he recently picked up his first two offers. Find out who offered the 6-foot-4, 230 pound Peach State defensive end here. 

• Alabama lineman holds eight • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Oxford HS prospect has busy summer camping.

• Owens slows things down a bit • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
LaDarius Owens is going to be tough to pull out of the Yellowhammer State

• 1992 / 2009: Gregory vs. Cody • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
NG Terrence Cody is one of the dominant figures on what is expected to be one of the nation's top defenses in 2009. Click here for the latest from BamaOnLine.com's 12-part series comparing UA's upcoming defense to the title-winning group from 1992.

• Moore: '09 Tide headed for Sugar date with Irish • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Yes, the Fourth of July is still a few days away, but that doesn't mean it's too early to start talking some 2009 Crimson Tide football

• Matthews: Fluker has ability to start immediately (audio included) • Crimson Confidential
Feeling a little starved for Alabama football info? You obviously missed out on yesterday's smorgasbord of Crimson Tide football...

• Andrew Bone: Tide's Smart, Georgia's Bobo offer insight at banquet • Tuscaloosa News
Scout.com and GAVSV.com (Georgia Varsity Sports Vent) held a banquet in Rome, Ga., Friday night with University of Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart and Georgia offensive coordinator Mike Bobo as the keynote speakers.

• Ray Melick: Hot Corner: Andre Smith seems lost again • The Birmingham News
Andre Smith's heart seemed to be in the right place -- even if his body wasn't. 

• Q&A with Tide's Anthony Grant • The Birmingham News
Tide's new basketball coach talks about settling in at Tuscaloosa and his plans for the upcoming season 

• Q&A with Tide's Anthony Grant • The Birmingham News
More than three months after he was hired to become Alabama's basketball coach, Anthony Grant has yet to settle in and relax. 

• Sports Soundoff • The Press Register
Tuesday, June 30, 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 Men's Basketball Coaches Press Conference • SEC Sports
SEC Men's Basketball Coaches Press Conference

• Harbach Blog...The 2009 SEC Preview • College Football News
Love him or hate him, he's back
My Pre-Season review of the SEC is back and after all the feedback that was sent in last season there wasn’t a reason to change the format. Taking a look at the SEC’s 2009 Contenders, Pretenders and Pushovers should fire up your emotions and fill up my inbox. Where does your team stack up?

• Items of interest • AJC
A few articles of housecleaning as we return to our regularly scheduled programming:

• Dallas OL has three favorites • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Offensive guard Dalvin Glass of Dallas-Carter, Texas continues to pick up offers. The 6-3½, 312-pound Glass recently landed offers from Kansas State and Tennessee. He also has offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska and Texas A&M. 

• Video Gallery: Oxford HS 7-on-7 • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Cherokee County went undefeated in a local 7-on-7 tournament held last Thursday at Oxford (Ala.) High School. Scout.com captured several of the top players in action. Video highlights include Corey Grant, Dale Trimble, Coty Blanchard, Darryl Collins, Davis Dudchock and Whit Whitfield. 

• Smith's playing it cool • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Five-star DL Garrison Smith talks a little recruiting with Scout..

• Rivals250 DT talkes Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Warner Robins (GA) defensive tackle Jeffrey Whitaker is one of the nation's top defensive line prospects for 2010 and after a slow summer, recruiting is beginning to pick up again for this star lineman.