Bama in the News

October 1 - 10,  2007

• Alabama Women's Golfers Sweep Honors at Wildcat Fall Invitational • RollTide.com
After a string of top-five finishes in the regular season and some tournament championship runs that came close, the University of Alabama women's golf team put it all together this weekend at the Wildcat Fall Invitational in Lexington, Ky., where the Tide won its first team title since the fall of 2005 in dominant fashion. 

• Freshman Justine Bernier Named SEC Soccer Defensive Player of the Week • RollTide.com
Bernier has been nothing short of spectacular since arriving at the Capstone this fall. The Ontario, Canada native is currently leading the SEC in saves with 77 and saves per game with an average of 7.70. Her 7.70 average is also ranks as the 16th best in the nation.

• Alabama-Ole Miss Televised by Lincoln Financial Sports • RollTide.com
The Southeastern Conference Office announced today that the University of Alabama football game against the Ole Miss Rebels, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 13 in Oxford, Miss., would be televised as the SEC Game of the Week by Lincoln Financial Sports and kickoff would be at 11:30 a.m. (CDT). 

• Tide Begins Preparation for Homecoming Contest Against Houston • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama welcomes back its alumni for the school's 87th homecoming game this Saturday, Oct. 6, when the Crimson Tide hosts the Houston Cougars at Bryant-Denny Stadium. CTSM will televise the annual homecoming game on a pay-per-view basis in the states of Alabama and Texas. 

• 10.1.07 Wallace Gilberry • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Wallace talks about the upcoming game against Houston.

• 10.1.07 Antoine Caldwell • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Antoine talks about the upcoming game against Houston.

• 10.1.07 Monday Practice • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the running backs work.

• Alabama-Ole Miss to kick off at 11:30 a.m. • Tuscaloosa News
The SEC announced today that the Alabama football game against the Ole Miss Rebels would be televised as the SEC Game of the Week by Lincoln Financial Sports.

• Saban Press Conference 10/1 • WVUA TV 7 
Saban Press Conference 10/1

• Saban Press Conference 10/1 Part 2 • WVUA TV 7
Saban Press Conference 10/1 Part 2

• Following the Future • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Crimson Tide commitment Destin Hood hauled in seven catches for 150 yards and three touchdowns last weekend, living up to his reputation as one of the nation's elite receivers. Find out more about how Hood and the rest of the Tide's 19 commitments faired in their senior high school seasons with our weekly Following the Future update...

• VIDEO: Saban looks ahead to Houston • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
On Monday, Alabama head coach Nick Saban put a lid on the Crimson Tide's loss to Florida State before looking ahead to this week's homecoming tilt against Houston. Check the Ultimate Ticket for video of Saban's Monday press luncheon! 

• Grading the Tide: FSU 21, Alabama 14 • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
BamaOnLine.com grades Alabama's 21-14 loss to FSU position by position with a weekly report card. This week, an interception by Prince Hall chipped in for a linebacker grade that was among the only bright spots.

• Notes from Nick Saban's press conference • Tider Insider (for members only)
It's not all the quarterback's fault… No lack of confidence… The formula for winning defense… Injury update… UH no pushover… and more.

• Wilson Needed Help In FSU Loss • BamaMag (for members only)
Through five games, Alabama is 3-2 overall and quarterback John Parker Wilson has completed 84 of 139 passes, 60.4 per cent, for 1,153 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. His long pass play has been for 78 yards. Oh, wait a minute! That was last year.

• Big Battle Looms • BamaMag
Robby Green is impressed with Nick Saban's effort but it's LSU vs Florida he can't wait to see now.

• SEC Football Players of the Week Announced • SEC Sports
SEC Football Players of the Week Announced

• SEC Soccer Weekly Honors Announced • SEC Sports
SEC Soccer Weekly Honors Announced

• Rivals100 OT talks senior year, UA • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
One of the top offensive line targets remaining on the Alabama board has his high school squad sitting at 6-0 largely due to his stellar blocking. This Rivals100 athlete is pulling double-duty this fall by also juggling college visits. Find out where the Tide stands on his visit calendar in this premium football recruiting update.

• Tide Coaching Staff Announces Players of Week • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The University of Alabama football coaching staff has selected five players of the week following the Crimson Tide's game with Florida State on Saturday. Two players from both the special teams and defensive units and one player on the offensive team were chosen. 

• 9.30.07 UA vs. FSU Q1 • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the full Alabama vs. Florida State game.

• 9.30.07 UA vs. FSU Q2 • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the full Alabama vs. Florida State game.

• 9.30.07 UA vs. FSU Q3 • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the full Alabama vs. Florida State game.

• 9.30.07 UA vs. FSU Q4 • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the full Alabama vs. Florida State game.

• 9.30.07 Florida State Highlight • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch all the big plays from the game against Florida State.

• Cecil Hurt: Relax, we knew this would be a bumpy ride • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama football team is only a couple of plays away from being 5-0 on the first day of October.

• Andrew Bone: Chat Transcript Part ll • Tuscaloosa News
Recruiting Q&A session with TideSports.com readers. 

• Mark McCarter: Drab game still one for history books • The Huntsville Times
Give Tide credit for strong finish, but FSU shows more muscle 

• Kevn Scarbinsky: Tide, Tigers play September to remember • The Birmingham News
Today is not a holiday, but it should be. The banks should be closed. The phone bills and credit-card come-ons and Victoria's Secret catalogs should pile up at the post office for one more day. 

• Tide faces crossroads as losses accumulate • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - For the first time in Nick Saban's tenure at the University of Alabama, there is adversity. Real adversity.

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA 

• Alabama not ready to panic • Press-Register
Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson woke up Sunday sore but undaunted by the past two weeks.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide drops out of polls • Press-Register
Alabama's two-week stint in the nation's top 25 polls ended with Saturday's 21-14 loss to Florida State.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Monday, October 01, 2007

• Alabama's wheels turning a bit off track • The Huntsville Times
Consecutive losses, sluggish offense a growing concern 

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Loss of TE McCall crucial in loss to Seminoles

• Jess Nicholas: Houston preview: CUSA’s Cougars have weapons to spare • TideFans.com
Kevin Kolb no longer calls the signals for the Houston Cougars, but that doesn’t mean Alabama’s defense will be able to take this game off.

• Jess Nicholas: SEC Previews and Predictions – Week 6 • TideFans.com
Auburn’s shocking upset of Florida, the Tigers’ second in as many years against the Gators, gave the Predictions Dept. its only loss of the week. Unfortunately, Alabama did not give the Dept. a second loss. This week, all eyes will be on Florida’s road...

• Crimson Tide falls to Seminoles • Crimson White
Jacksonville, Fla. - Alabama dodged bullets all night Saturday, but it kept feeding Florida State clips. A shot finally landed in the third quarter, and the seven-point wound proved to be too deep to overcome. The Crimson Tide lost to the Seminoles 21-14 as the second fourth-quarter comeback attempt in as many weeks fell short.

• Tide offense struggles again in loss • Crimson White
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Five games through the season, Alabama is already proving why preseason expectations don't carry a lot of weight. Yes, the Crimson Tide may be right where a lot of experts picked them record-wise at 3-2, but how Alabama has gotten to that point has been a little baffling.

• Alabama falls to undefeated No. 6 Florida Gators • Crimson White
The Crimson Tide volleyball team lost to the undefeated Florida Gators on Sunday, falling 3-1 to the No. 6 ranked team in the country. Alabama hasn't taken a win off the Gators since 1978. The Tide came into the match undefeated in SEC play and looked to continue their five match SEC winning streak with a win against the Gators.

• Alabama beats Kentucky as time expires • Crimson White
The Crimson Tide soccer team improved its record to 8-2-1 with a last second win against Kentucky on Sunday. Midfielder Kailey Corken brought the crowd to its feet and dropped the Wildcats to their knees when her shot passed through teammate Callie Pike's legs and over the Kentucky goal line with only one second left on the clock.

• 2007 SEC Football - Week 6 Sunday Notebook • SEC Sports
2007 SEC Football - Week 6 Sunday Notebook

• SEC Soccer Roundup - Sunday, September 30th • SEC Sports
SEC Soccer Roundup - Sunday, September 30th

• SEC Volleyball Roundup - Sunday, September 30th • SEC Sports
SEC Volleyball Roundup - Sunday, September 30th

• Tide offense going in wrong direction • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama coach Nick Saban took several opportunities to praise Florida State in the wake of the Seminoles' 21-14 win over Alabama in the River City Showdown on Saturday, but he made it clear the Crimson Tide had regressed in its development as a football team.

• Tide’s Wilson struggles again, and his coach notices • The Decatur Daily
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — When addressing criticism, Alabama’s John Parker Wilson knows it’s all about the most recent view. 

• College Football Notebook • The Decatur Daily
Alabama

• Jimmy Smothers: Weekend turns things around for some teams • The Gadsden Times
Want to know why college football is so popular? Easy question, ready answer. It's the excitement and the anticipation of the unexpected. Today, there seems to be the possibility of an upset every time two teams tee it up.

• Ken Rogers: A different view for Alabama now • The Dothan Eagle
Proper perspective is tougher to find during college football season than $1 a gallon gas, but here goes a try.

• 2007 USA Today/Coaches Poll - Week 5 • CollegeFootballNews.com
The weekly poll and ranking from the USA Today Top 25 Coaches' Poll

• CFN Rankings No. 1 to 119 - Week 5, Sept. 30 • CollegeFootballNews.com
You must rank teams based on how good you believe they are at the moment. That's the point when it comes to putting the teams in some order. However, once the year is complete, it's only fair to take the subjectivity out of it and go by what actually happened on the field.

• 2007 Bowl Projections ... Sept. 30 • CollegeFootballNews.com
Predicting and projecting the possible post-season matchups. 

• SEC Conference Roundup - Week 5 • CollegeFootballNews.com
SEC conference roundup, standings, player and game of the week

• Hightower enjoying dominant Sr. year • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Doing everything but selling popcorn at the concession stands, Marshall County jumbo athlete Don'ta Hightower has led his high school squad to a 4-1 record after dropping their season opener. With the second half of the season to go and a trip to Tuscaloosa in the works, Hightower talks football in this Premium Recruiting Update.

• PHOTO GALLERY: Alabama vs. FSU • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The Crimson Tide came up just short in Jacksonville against Florida State but not before giving fans a thrilling fourth quarter that featured a number of impressive big plays. BamaOnline photographer T.G. Paschal was on the field to capture all the excitement in our ...

• Bama commitment having a record-setting season • Tider Insider (for members only)
Word is that Nick Saban wanted to sign a top-flight kicker last year, but by the time he started recruiting for Alabama, all of the good ones were already taken. So this year Saban went out and got an early commitment from Corey Smith from Musselman HS in Inwood, West Virginia, one of the nation's best combo kickers.

• BamaMag.com: Photo Gallery from Jacksonville • BamaMag (for members only)
Photos from sidelines at the Alabama-FSU game in Jacksonville, (Fla.).

• 10.2.07 Tuesday Practice • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch as the running backs and tight ends work.

• 10.2.07 Ezekiel Knight • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Zeke talks about the upcoming game against Houston.

• 10.2.07 Darren Mustin • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Darren talks about the upcoming game against Houston.

• 10.2.07 Rashad Johnson • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Rashad talks about the upcoming game against Houston.

• Houston? You have a problem • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Houston and QB Case Keenum come to Tuscaloosa for Homecoming Saturday averaging 483.5 yards per game, which ranks 15th in the NCAA. Check the Ultimate Ticket for BamaOnLine.com's look at the pass-happy attack the Cougars hope to use in a spoiler role.

• Freshman Goalkeeper Justine Bernier Earns National Team of the Week Honors • RollTide.com
University of Alabama Freshman goalkeeper Justine Bernier picked up two national honors this week in addition to being named the Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Week. 

• Men’s Cross Country Team Jumps to No. 8 in the National Polls; ... • RollTide.com
The Alabama men's cross country team jumped nine spots from No.17 last week to No. 8 in the latest USTFCCC poll. The SEC also noticed the Tide's performance from this past weekend honoring sophomore Emmanuel Bor as the SEC Male Runner of the Week and freshman Andrew Kirwa as the SEC Freshman Runner of the Week. 

• Derek Tuten Named Assistant Rowing Coach  • RollTide.com
Tuscaloosa native Derek Tuten has been named assistant coach of the University of Alabama rowing team head coach Larry Davis announced recently.

• Buikema/Thibaudeau Fall in Qualifying Round of ITA All-American Tennis ... • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama's Dan Buikema and Mathieu Thibaudeau both fell in the qualifying round of the Polo Ralph Lauren All-American Tennis Championships today in Tulsa, Okla. 

• The Harmon Forecast • CBS Sportsline
In its 51st year, The Harmon Forecast predicts probable scores of college football games each week. The Harmon Forecast is powered by Accuscore. 

• 2007 SEC Football - Week 6 Game Previews • SEC Sports
2007 SEC Football - Week 6 Game Previews

• Matchett on a mission • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
St. Paul's Episcopal features a well-oiled offensive machine, and at the heartbeat of that system is senior back Ivan Matchett - a 5-foot-10, 210-pound bowling ball and Tide commitment. Find out more about Matchett's spectacular senior season and his opinions on the Tide's 3-2 record by checking out this Premium Football Recruiting Update. 

• The Zoom Lens: Ezekial Knight • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Each week BOL takes subscribers inside the previous game with a detailed analysis of a position or player chosen by its members. This week, BOL zooms in on Zeke Knight. Check the Ultimate Ticket for BOL's latest interactive feature, The Zoom Lens. 

• Huffman star is off to a fast start • Tider Insider (for members only)
If he projects to qualify academically, Birmingham-Huffman defensive lineman Marcel Dareus (6-4, 270, 4.9) will be one of the state's top uncommitted prospects to keep an eye on. In spite of playing with a nagging shoulder injury this season, Dareus has already racked up over 35 tackles…

• Tide Players See Progress • BamaMag (for members only)
Two defeats in a row can create things like self-doubt and adversity on a team that started 3-0. That’s not the case in Tuscaloosa, according to a trio of Alabama players who met the media following coach Nick Saban’s weekly press briefing. They all feel its just a matter of getting back in sync.

• Burton Scott Injured • BamaMag (for members only)
Scout.com reports the latest news with Tide commitment.

• Scouting The Hargrave Tigers • BamaMag (for members only)
It is always a treat to watch what is nearly a college football team in the Hargrave Tigers

• William Green's Commitment Still on Hold • BamaMag (for members only)
Scout.com reports the latest news with four-star DE.

• Bama in the NFL - The Players:
Kenneth Darby signed by the Buccaneers (off the practice squad).

• Christopher Walsh: Alabama First-and-10 • Tuscaloosa News
We’re a day later than usual this week due to unavoidable travel logistics returning from Jacksonville. Nevertheless, there are still a number of leftovers to examine from the University of Alabama’s 21-14 loss to Florida State on Saturday night.

• Andrew Bone: Several offensive recruits still undecided • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama has received 19 commitments with five months remaining until National Signing Day, the first Wednesday in February. It has loaded up on the defensive front and have several... 

• Houston offense creates a challenge for Tide • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The Houston Cougars aren’t your run-of-the-mill homecoming opponent.

• Tide tries to regroup for Houston • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | It’s not a running offense.

• 100% defense lesson sinking in • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Before the season, University of Alabama coaches attempted to explain to their players the importance of limiting big plays. So they offered an analogy, one that explained it all so simply. 

• Tommy Hicks: It's going to be wild ride, fans • Press-Register
What kind of season has it been in college football thus far? Just take a look around your office. That should tell you. Remember the folks that were so talkative two weeks ago? The Alabama fans? It's a good bet they slipped into their office or cubicle today unnoticed. Just a guess. 

• Saban confident in Bama's future • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama's players collectively braced Monday for another side of Nick Saban. 

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide players learn lesson from Mitchell • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Like other Alabama players, safety Rashad Johnson was surprised when cornerback Lionel Mitchell, a starter in four previous games, didn't play at all against Florida State.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Tuesday, October 02, 2007

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Mustin explains about doing it right 

• No wavering here • The Huntsville Times
Saban gives QB Wilson his full support despite Tide's 2 straight losses

• Reviews good for McClain • The Decatur Daily
TUSCALOOSA — It seems like every week, someone on Alabama's defense will praise Rolando McClain. 

• Trio of big plays turned game against Tide • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama's defense played solidly, if not spectacularly, in Saturday's game against Florida State.

• SEC, STATE SCHEDULES • The Decatur Daily
SEC, STATE SCHEDULES

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK • The Decatur Daily
Alabama 

• Saban shows support for Wilson • The Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Turns out, it’s not all John Parker Wilson’s fault, after all.

• Breakdowns tug at Alabama defense • The Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Florida State ran 65 offensive plays against Alabama on Saturday night in Jacksonville, Fla.

• Tide QB commitment plans to visit this Saturday • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I plan to fly up there. I'm really excited about it. I've watched all their games on TV. They've been doing a really good job…"Tide QB commitment plans to visit this Saturday"I plan to fly up there. I'm really excited about it. I've watched all their games on TV. They've been doing a really good job…"

• Next in line at Eufaula • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The Alabama coaching staff has already mined Eufaula High School for defensive talent, landing the commitment of Courtney Upshaw. In what could be a positive chain of events for Tide fans, Eufaula's junior class features one of the top in-state linebackers in Alabama.

• Top Ten Tiders • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Each Monday, BamaOnline's Matt Scalici lists his top 10 Tide performers. In effect, the list serves as a week-to-week ranking of Alabama's most valuable players. Take a look at where things stand after the Tide's loss to Florida State inside the Ultimate Ticket... 

• 10.3.07 Coach Saban • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Coach Saban reviews practice and talks about the upcoming game.

• Cecil Hurt: Quarterback speculation can be healthy • Tuscaloosa News
As University of Alabama quarterback controversies go, the current Crimson Tide situation isn’t even a blip on the radar. 

• Video: Tide gearing up for Houston • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
On Wednesday, the Alabama Crimson Tide worked out in full pads in advance of Saturday's homecoming date with Houston (2-2). Check the Ultimate Ticket for video of Darren Mustin and other Tide stars in action

• Taking A Look At Tide Depth Chart • BamaMag (for members only)
The depth chart of a football team is fluid, changing week-to-week or even day-to-day and including battlefield promotions during the game. There is no official depth chart. Here is a guess at Alabama’s as the midway point of the season approaches.

• Richard Scott: With Bama loss, advantage Tuberville • BamaMag (for members only)
That squeaking sound emanating from the state of Alabama is the sound of a pendulum swinging back in Auburn’s direction.

• Alabama Volleyball on the Road to Take on LSU/Ole Miss • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama volleyball team heads on the road again this week to take on the 20th ranked LSU Tigers Friday, Oct. 5 before heading to Oxford, Miss. to face Ole Miss Sunday, Oct. 7. 

• 10.3.07 Wednesday Practice • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Watch the wideouts work during Wedneday's practice.

• Offense looking to regroup • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Entering the sixth week of the season, the Alabama Crimson Tide have already experienced some extreme highs as well as extreme lows, particularly on the offensive side of the football. After a strong start that featured highlight reel plays aplenty, the Alabama offense has struggled in each of the its last two games and must find a solution before another big game slips away...

• Overcoming Obstacles; Motley Makes Long-Awaited Debut • RollTide.com
It was a difficult training camp for University of Alabama redshirt freshman Brian Motley. First, he was still adapting to the move from offensive line to defensive line and still learning how to play nose tackle. Second, he suffered a hand injury about 10 days into camp, which required surgery and sidelined him for more than a week. After returning to practice and moving the top of the depth chart at nose tackle, Motley 

• Nick Saban Weekly Press Conference Transcript • RollTide.com
Following is a transcript of University of Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban's weekly press conference. 

• FAST FIVE: Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban • RollTide.com
University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are preparing for Saturday's homecoming game against the Houston Cougars at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Here are some of Coach Saban's thoughts on this weekend's game in this week's "Fast Five" segment.

• Photo Gallery • RollTide.com
10.3.2007 - VB Head Coach Judy Green Visits with Residents of Capstone Village 

• Alabama Football Flashback: 1920 Homecoming Game • RollTide.com
Two years after the end of World War I, the University of Alabama staged an Armistice Day celebration that began the tradition of homecoming at the Capstone. Alabama and LSU met on Thursday, Nov. 11, 1920 at 11 a.m. in what was the first homecoming football game in Crimson Tide history. 

• 2007 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference • SEC Sports
2007 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference

• UA-Houston: Five on the spot • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Alabama faces Houston Saturday for Homecoming at the Capstone, and the Cougars will bring an offense that averages nearly 500 yards per game.

• Tennessee star nearing a decision • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I'm thinking about making a decision either next week or the following week. Alabama still leads." 

• Difficult To Predict Where Bama Is Headed • BamaMag
Alabama Coach Nick Saban raised some interesting points about the progress of Alabama’s football team this year. As everyone knows—or, at least, should know – Saban is process-oriented, not result-oriented. He also thinks that most everyone else is result-oriented.

• Football Tickets Available Via Internet-Only Sale • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama announces the Internet only sale of Football tickets to this week's game vs. the University of Houston. Tickets for sale are made available from a small inventory returned by the University of Houston. 

• Can UA land No. 1 class? • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
The men's basketball team has put together one of the nation's top groups so far and with two of the country's best players heading to Tuscaloosa this weekend the class could get even better. How much better? Mark Gottfried and his assistants could pull in the nation's No. 1 group when all is said and done. 

• Bama in the NFL  • BamaOnLine
Each week, BamaOnLine checks in on the all the action in the NFL and how former Crimson Tide players are doing around the league. This week, we take a look at 17 former Tide players active in the NFL who are regular contributors this season. 

• Love sees good things happening at Bama • Tider Insider (for members only)
"The technique of the offensive line is better. The defense is also getting to the ball better. Everything has improved…" 

• Preparations Continue for Homecoming Game with Houston • RollTide.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The University of Alabama team held a two-hour practice Tuesday afternoon at the Thomas-Drew Practice Facility as preparations continue for Saturday's annual homecoming game against the Houston Cougars at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Tide worked on regular first-and-10, second and long, goal-line and short yardage situations during Tuesday's session. 

• Crimson Tide Players Looking Towards Homecoming Game • RollTide.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The University of Alabama football team is looking to get back on its winning track Saturday when the Crimson Tide hosts the Houston Cougars in the annual homecoming game at Bryant-Denny Stadium. 

• TI TV 10/2 • WVUA TV 7
Tider Insider's Rodney Orr and WVUA Sports Director Gary Harris discuss Alabama's problems on offense , as well as, this week's game with Houston.

• Military academies are the answer for some • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | One is located just down the road, approximately 50 miles away from the University of Alabama campus, while the other would require a 600-mile journey.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Propst backs his old QB, new Tide staff • The Birmingham News
Rush Propst went to the Arkansas-Alabama football game. He went back for the Georgia-Alabama game. 

• Neal McCready: Alabama's playmakers hard to find • Press-Register
There are weeks when developing one thought into a column is difficult. That's not the case this week, so I'll try to hit as much as I can as quickly as I can. 

• Pigskin productivity: Cougar offense adds up • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Art Briles wasn't trying to be unique or different. He wasn't trying to be cool. 

• FROM OUR BLOGS • The Birmingham News
SEGREST ON THE SEC 

• SEC NOTEBOOK • The Birmingham News
McFadden closing in on Humphrey record: 

• Arrest behind him, Deaderick ready to step into bigger role • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- The in-house discipline for Alabama sophomore defensive end Brandon Deaderick this summer did not include suspension. He hasn't missed a game.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Wednesday, October 03, 2007

• USF coach bristles at Saban's comments • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- South Florida coach Jim Leavitt was not amused by Monday's comments from Alabama coach Nick Saban linking the rapid rise of Big East programs like USF to less-stringent academic standards.

• Tide steers clear of past • The Huntsville Times
Players trying hard to ignore similarities to '06 

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Gilberry, Tide looking for sacks

• A symbol of hope • Crimson White
For many people who love the University of Alabama, Big Al is the mascot of a great tradition. As much a part of game day as tailgate tents, barbecue sandwiches and houndstooth hats, the big gray elephant is a symbol of the victory Alabamians expect from their Crimson Tide.… 

• Tide soars to No. 8 • Crimson White
The Alabama men's cross country team jumped nine spots to No. 8 in the country in the latest U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association poll, after an impressive third-place finish at the Bill Dellinger Invitational last weekend. There were eight top 30 teams at the meet, including then-No.

• Alabama rolling through the SEC • Crimson White
The Crimson Tide volleyball team has made it clear: they are a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. The Tide started the season 5-1 in the SEC with its only loss coming against the undefeated Florida Gators, who have won the last 16 SEC championships and who Alabama has not beaten since 1978.

• At the halfway mark Tide runners staying in stride • Crimson White
The Alabama women's cross country team is back in training after finishing eighth place at the Sean Earl Lakefront invitational this weekend in Chicago. Head coach Randy Hasenbank said he was impressed by the performance of his young runners. "I felt that we did well," Hasenbank said.

• Stopping big plays focus for Alabama • The Decatur Daily
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama linebacker Darren Mustin says he and his teammates often hear the "99-percent analogy" from their coaches about giving up big plays. 

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK • The Decatur Daily
Alabama

• Tide's Motley relishes return to field • Montgomery Advertiser
Brian Motley had never broken a bone in his body before August, but he knew he was in trouble the moment teammate David Ross landed on his leg in a preseason practice.

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK: • Montgomery Advertiser
Weekend includes Daughtry concert

• Bama needs running game to return • The Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — When you’re staring at third-and-6 or longer for most of an afternoon, the passing game becomes an easy target — for defenses and fans.

• SEC Fearless Predictions, Oct. 6, Part 2 • CollegeFootballNews.com
Previews and Predictions for the Week 6 SEC Games, Part 2

• Down to eight • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Gadsden (AL) Gadsden City four-star recruit Jerrell Harris is down to eight schools that he's now considering. Who made the cut for the nation's No. 1 athletic linebacker, per Rivals.com, and why did those schools make it? Does Clemson, a team the nation's No. 7 outside linebacker prospect visited for the Tigers' season opening win over FSU, remain in the mix?

• SEC Power Poll • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Week Five is in the books and the Southeastern Conference race appears to be as wild as ever in 2007. Take a look at where the Crimson Tide stacks up among SEC teams after five weeks of play in our SEC Power Poll...

• Tuesday post-practice notes • Tider Insider (for members only)
Motley toughing it out... Tide offense searching for consistency… Castille gives fellow corner a pep talk… more

• Fourth Quarter Ready • BamaMag
"Alabama has really impressed me," Tyler Edwards said. "I was expecting LSU to do well, but Alabama beat Arkansas and almost beat Georgia. I guess Nick Saban has really turned things around over there. I don't think they even thought they'd improve as quickly as they have and they'll get even better next year...You can tell they are just fourth quarter ready this year..."

• Motley Happy To Be Playing • BamaMag (for members only)
Freshman noseguard made quick recovery to get back on field

• BamaMag.com: Photo Gallery ll • BamaMag (for members only)
Tide players in Jacksonville.

• Swimming and Diving Starts Season with Crimson and White Intrasquad • RollTide.com
After weeks of daily training and conditioning, the Alabama Swimming and Diving teams will get up and compete for the first time this Friday in the annual Crimson and White Intrasquad meet. 

• Hall Eyes All-Time Receptions Mark • RollTide.com
Senior receiver DJ Hall (Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.) has put together a nice collection of records during his career at the University of Alabama. 

• 10.4.07 Crimson Tide This Week • Crimson Tradition (Members Only)
Catch up on all the latest in Alabama athletics.

• Andrew Bone: Future Tide quarterback to visit • Tuscaloosa News
Scout.com four-star signal caller in Tuscaloosa this weekend.. 

• Sports Illustrated Celebrates 75 Years of SEC Football • SEC Sports
Featuring the Greatest Teams, Coaches and Players of three quarters of a century including our All-Time SEC Team 

• BOL notebook: Motley returns • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Alabama's Brian Motley has returned from an ankle fracture ahead of schedule, and the redshirt freshman spoke to reporters for the first time since the injury on Wednesday. 

• Alabama on National Stage • BamaMag
ESPN2 is in Alabama to broadcast a game tonight at 8:00pm central standard time, but it is not for a collegiate affair. They will broadcast one of the most anticipated rivalries in the state, Daphne Trojans (5-0; 2-0) and Foley (5-0; 3-0).

• Hidden gems • Pro Football Weekly
Small-school corners catching notice in a weak CB class

• Top tailback wants to experience gameday in Tuscaloosa • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I told them if I come over there, I want to come when there are 92,000 in the stands…"

• Tide Golfers Ready to Defend Title at JPNI • RollTide.com
The Crimson Tide heads into its fourth fall tournament as the defending champions at its own Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate. The tournament will be October 8-9 at Birmingham's Old Overton Club. 

• Crimson Tide Athletes Continue To Improve In Graduation Success Rate Survey • RollTide.com
Six athletics programs at the University of Alabama compiled graduation rates of 100 percent, and 11 were above 80 percent, according to the NCAA's latest Graduation Success Rate (GSR) survey released Wednesday, October 3.

• John Hannah Among Finalists for Best SEC Offensive Lineman of All Time ... • RollTide.com
The Southeastern Conference has produced some of the best protective offensive lineman in the history of college football, and now fans have voiced their opinions on the best of all time. 

• The War Room • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
BamaOnLine is proud to present the War Room which features the most up-to-date juicy news involving Alabama athletics and recruiting. This week's War Room gives you the latest news on over 20 UA recruits, including Jerrell Harris, William Green, Arthur Brown and a surprise visitor expected in Tuscaloosa this weekend. In addition, the War Room has the latest news on UA's recent commitments and much, much more...

• Rivals100 lineman still in mix for Tide • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
E.D. White (Thibodaux, La.) lineman Chase Clement has begun his senior year in spectacular fashion as a force on both offense and defense for his high school squad. Does this Rivals100 athlete still have the Tide in his mix of athletes? 

• Bama moves up the list of this blue-chip OL • Tider Insider (for members only)
"I really like Alabama a lot. I visited for the Georgia game and the atmosphere there definitely helped to bump them up the list."

• Jimmy Johns Won’t Be Moved • BamaMag (for members only)
The time is not right. If it was 15 years ago, or maybe seven or eight months ago, Alabama junior running back Jimmy Johns might be in a position to get more playing time. But for now he’s relegated almost exclusively to play on Crimson Tide special teams.

• 2008 NFL Draft: Day-One Deep Threats • BamaMag
If your favorite NFL team lacks a true deep threat at wide receiver, Chris Steuber points out five Day-One receivers that your team should be evaluating right now for the 2008 NFL Draft. 

• Baseball Team to Hold Two Scrimmages • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama baseball team will play a pair of intrasquad games on Thursday (Oct. 4) and Friday (Oct. 5) at Sewell-Thomas Stadium. The team will practice at 1:30 p.m. (CDT) both days with the scrimmages slated to begin at approximately 3:30 p.m. (CDT) each day. Both scrimmages a free to the public.

• Alabama Gears Up for Houston Offense • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama team held a two-hour practice Wednesday afternoon at the Thomas-Drew Practice Facility as preparations continue for Saturday's annual homecoming game against the Houston Cougars at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Tide worked on red-zone offense, red-zone defense and third down situations during Wednesday's session.

• UA ratchets up penalties for throwing objects at games • Tuscaloosa News
Greeks lose seats close to field for next two home games

• Tide players don't lack confidence • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The last time the University of Alabama football team lost two games in a row, it was the start of a four-game losing streak.The end result was a 6-7 record in 2006.

• Saban: No move planned for Jimmy Johns • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | University of Alabama coach Nick Saban was asked Wednesday evening about junior running back Jimmy Johns’ role on the team, and if a possible move to the defense might be in...

• Ray Melick:  When booster's source of leak, it's time to bail • The Birmingham News
Apparently in the Big 12, a football coach can either go after sports columnists who write things about his players he doesn't like, or he can do it himself. Maybe that's what really bothered Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy. Why let a sportswriter criticize your starting quarterback when you can do it yourself - and line your own pockets in the process? 

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA

• Alabama notes • Press-Register
HOUSTON (2-2) at ALABAMA (3-2) 2 p.m. Saturday (Pay-per-view) Bryant-Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa -- LINE: Alabama by 11 

• Greenwood back at practice, but status for game in doubt • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama defensive end Bobby Greenwood returned to practice Wednesday in a limited role but remains "questionable" for Saturday's 2 p.m. game against Houston, Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban said.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Thursday, October 04, 2007

• Tide players try to stay positive• Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Missed classwork could mean missed time on the playing field, per a new academic policy implemented Sept. 17 by the University of Alabama athletics department.

• Tide makes strides on defensive side • The Huntsville Times
UA giving up big plays, but Saban sees progress

• Tide tests depths after elites graduate • Crimson White
The Alabama swimming and diving team enters the year extremely confident under third-year head coach Erin McIlquham. Last year McIlquham lead the team to top 25 finishes for both the men's and women's squads. The season also saw senior Vlad Polyakov take the University's 18th national championship.

• Tide gains wins, confidence in home opener • Crimson White
The Alabama women's tennis team held the 22nd annual Roberta Alison Classic last weekend - its first home match of the season. The tournament featured 11 teams, three of which ended the 2006 season nationally ranked. Auburn, Mississippi State, Florida State, Troy and six other teams composed this year's field.

• Corken attacks soccer, school aggressively • Crimson White
One month into the fall soccer season, Alabama is leading the SEC in goals and shots. With four goals and four assists in 10 games, outside midfielder Kailey Corken stands at the forefront of the Crimson Tide's September scoring surge. After missing the last seven games of the 2006 season with a broken toe suffered against Vanderbilt, Corken spent last month making up for lost time on the pitch.

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Ex-Alabama star Darby signs with Bucs

• Houston coach to have own homecoming at Alabama • Montgomery Advertiser
When you travel around the country, making a dozen coaching stops in a 31-year journey, sometimes it's the place you're at that seems the most like home.

• Houston brings two-QB system into Tuscaloosa • The Decatur Daily
TUSCALOOSA — Houston coach Art Briles gave a throaty chuckle when asked about the importance of the quarterback in his offen

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL NOTES • The Decatur Daily
Alabama

• BOL Panel Predictions • BamaOnLine
BamaOnLine.com puts its own staff as well as other state media representatives to the test with BOL Panel Predictions. Each week this football season, media members will pick their winners for key games both around the SEC and the nation. This is a free BOL feature. 

• Wednesday post-practice notes • Tider Insider (for members only)
Tide having intense practices… Davis misses practice… Injury update… Right corner up for grabs… Jimmy Johns' role… and more.

• Saban Pleased With Tide Practices • BamaMag
Alabama coach says Tide focus this week is on improvement

• Hall Not Bothered By TV Criticism • BamaMag (for members only)
Tide’s receiver more concerned about getting the job done

• Volleyball:
LSU 3, Alabama 2

• Soccer:
Mississippi State 3, Alabam1

• The Bulletin Board • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Need a little extra motivation for this weekend's Homecoming matchup against Houston? For that we bring you the BamaOnline Bulletin Board, an exclusive feature compiling all the quotes, notes and facts you need to know to get you even more hyped up for the Crimson Tide's upcoming clash with the Cougars.

• Spreadsheet Data • BamaMag
Arthur Brown's mentor speaks of Brown's considerations leading up to his Dec. 17 announcement.

• Julio Too Much for Daphne to Overcome • BamaMag
Foley takes the win in an exciting game.

• The Alltime SEC Team • SI.com
See SI's pick for the Alltime SEC team. If you don't agree submit your own

• FRIDAY FOOTBALL FLASHBACK: Alabama 34, Houston 20 (1971) • RollTide.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The last time the University of Alabama football team hosted the Houston Cougars in Tuscaloosa, two well-known running backs combined for 305 rushing yards in the Crimson Tide's 34-20 win in front 56,939 fans at Denny Stadium.

• Buikema/Thibaudeau Advance to Second Round of ITA All-Americans • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama men's tennis top doubles tandem of Dan Buikema and Mathieu Thibaudeau advanced to the second round of the Polo Ralph Lauren All-American Fall Championships yesterday.

• UA-Houston: How they match up • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Alabama faces Houston for Homecoming Saturday, and the Cougars bring one of the nation's most explosive offenses to Bryant-Denny Stadium. Meet the Houston lineup as BamaOnLine.com breaks down the edges at every position.

• Neighbors brings the hammer • BamaOnLine  (for members only)
Huntsville High is off to a tremendous start in Class 6A competition, running their record to 6-0 Thursday night with a 38-14 win over Grissom. Leading the way on defense is hard-hitting Tide commit Wesley Neighbors. 

• Tide has plenty of positions to shore up • BamaMag (for members only)
Saturday’s homecoming contest with Houston is not the traditional “get-well” game for Alabama. The Crimson Tide would be wise to try to address consistency problems at several key positions. It needs to happen in a hurry, because the season starts for real again next week.

• Cougar QBs not the only concern for Tide coaches • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | For the second straight week, the University of Alabama football team’s defensive coaches know they are likely to face two quarterbacks. But even Houston coach Art Briles isn’t certain which one will start the game.

• Andrew Bone: Tide commitments in action • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama verbal pledges progress through senior season. 

• CRIMSON TIDE NOTEBOOK: Tide golf team set for Jerry Pate Intercollegiate • Tuscaloosa News
University of Alabama senior Michael Thompson, the nation’s top-ranked amateur golfer, is among the collegiate elite who will gather in Birmingham over the next few days for the 2007 Jerry Pate...

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA 

• Motley nears expanded role on defense • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Now that he is past the difficult part, Brian Motley can describe the pain.

• Stellar starting lineup, or does Tide lack depth? • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA -- Competition is king. 

• Tide's Moore receives raise • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama's Mal Moore will receive a $25,000 raise this year to boost his annual salary to $425,000 and make him one of the best-paid athletics directors in the Southeastern Conference.

• Trip to Bryant-Denny brings back memories for ex-Vol Ash • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA -- When Houston's players arrive at Bryant-Denny Stadium to preview their digs for Saturday's tussle with Alabama, junior defensive lineman Ell Ash will have a unique perspective.

• Tide to face 'sick' offense • The Huntsville Times
Houston's diverse formations will be a challenge 

• Volleyball gears up to hit the road • Crimson White
Volleyball head coach Judy Green said her players need to understand they are a good volleyball team, and they should see themselves as a big-time college program. "We have certainly been giving a competitive effort," she said. "We see what we are looking for, and we know what it takes to fight.

• Team ranks highest in school history • Crimson White
In their first appearance at the University of Kentucky's Wildcat Fall Invitational, the Crimson Tide knocked off then-No. 5 Florida to claim the team title. The Tide vaulted into the No. 9 spot in the Golfweek/Saragrin rankings and the No. 19 slot in the NGCA coaches' poll.

• Freshmen help Tide stay unbeaten in SEC