Bama in the News

October 22 - 31, 2008

• Tide Hoops a Big Draw At SEC Media Days • RollTide.com
The Southeastern Conference is hosting Tipoff 2009 SEC Basketball Media Days at the Birmingham Marriott today and Thursday, October 22-23. Wednesday afternoon was the Crimson Tide's time slot to ap...

• Crimson Tide Has Good Energy Level • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama football team practiced for two hours in full pads on Wednesday afternoon as preparation continues for Saturday's game against the Tennessee Volunteers.

• Women's Basketball Takes the Mic at SEC Tipoff • RollTide.com
Women's Basketball Coach Wendell Hudson and players Camilla Blands and Tierney Jenkins took part in the Southeastern Conference's annual Tipoff event Wednesday. 

• Soccer Heads to Tennessee for Thursday Night Matchup • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team (9-6-1, 4-4-0 SEC) will head to Knoxville, Tenn. for a rare Thursday night match. The Crimson Tide will face the Tennessee Lady Vols (8-8-0, 5-3-0 SEC) at 6:00 p.m. CT at th...

• Terrence Cody: Will be back for LSU • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Terrence Cody's page on the Facebook web site said he expects to be back for the second-ranked University of Alabama's game against LSU on Nov. 8.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/22 - Practice

• Chris's Blog - Wednesday October 22nd • Chris Stewart Sports
2:15 p.m. CDT - SEC Media Days...

• Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days • SEC Sports
Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days

• The Huddle: Alabama Edition • Dothan Eagle
Alabama heads north to Tennessee to play the Volunteers. The game is 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. It will be televised on ESPN.

• Tide expecting a physical game • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"We are obviously getting ready for a very physical game and the players have practiced well and had a good energy level," Alabama head coach Nick Saban said following Wednesday's practice.

• The latest on Gadsden City duo • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Rumors have been swirling the past two weeks that Gadsden City standout receiver Kendall Kelly might be closing in on a decision. Supposedly, the 6-4, 220-pound Kelly was going to announce soon for Alabama over Auburn, Clemson, FSU Texas and Southern Cal, among others. Is Kelly close to a decision? 

• U.S. Army AA: Gadsden City Duo • 'BamaMag
Dre Kirkpatrick and Kendall Kelly, Scout.com five-stars from Gadsden (Ala.) City, were selected to participate in the U.S. Army All-American game in San Antonio, Texas. The talented teammates were presented by the U.S. Army Wednesday at Gadsden City High School. The state’s top two players talked of their eventful day and updated their recruitment. 

• Offensive Targets • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After signing 32 players in the 2008 class Alabama is expected to sign close to the full amount again in 2009. Last year's group resulted in the nation's top class and so far this year the UA staff has put together a class that continues to rise in the rankings with each commit.

• Atchison visits Bama • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Atlanta (Ga.) Douglass linebacker Jonathan Atchison, an Auburn commitment since August, took an unofficial visit to Alabama this past weekend. What are this top commitment's thoughts on his Auburn pledge after ... 

• VIDEO: Glen Coffee • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Various circumstances have kept Alabama tailback Glen Coffee out of the Crimson Tide's last two meetings with Tennessee. But UA's leading rusher will be on display when the Tide travels to Knoxville Saturday. 

• VIDEO: Nick Saban's Wednesday news conference • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama head coach Nick Saban met with reporters following Wednesday's practice. Check the Ultimate Ticket for video from Saban's news conference! 

• Kirkpatrick, Kelly will play in San Antonio • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Only a few schools in the country have the honor of having a player named to the Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Gadsden City High School has the distinct honor of having two selected to play.

• Wednesday practice report • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama football team practiced in full pads Wednesday at the Thomas-Drew Practice Facility as the team prepares to travel to Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday to face rival Tennessee. Here are a few notes from the media observation period from BamaOnLine.com.

• Graduation rates on rise • BamaOnLine
With the nation's No.1 recruiting class in 2008 already in hand, and making a push for one of the very best classes of 2009, it's not as if Nick Saban needs any help on the recruiting trail.

• Notebook: Coffee blames himself for fumbles • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama running back Glen Coffee is quick to assign blame for his three fumbles in the last two games

• VIDEO — Nick Saban's Wednesday press conference • Crimson Confidential
Alabama coach Nick Saban discusses Saturday's Tennessee game 

• VIDEO — Wednesday player interviews • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Mike McCoy and Glen Coffee

• Wednesday practice notes: Tide continues work for Tennessee • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Chapman still working as first-team NG 

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Defensive Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama ranks fourth nationally in stopping the run. See how opponents' leading rushers have fared against the Tide in this week's defensive notebook on RollTide.com.

• Ian R. Rapoport: The interesting story of Luther Davis... • al.com
Has any player made a more stunning turnaround than Luther Davis? Has any player gone from doghouse to the two-deep depth quicker than the sophomore defensive lineman? If someone has, I don't know about it...

• Gentry Estes: View from the other side: Tennessee • al.com
For this Alabama beat writer, getting opinions and background on Tennessee is akin to a letter-high fastball. I did, after all, cover the Vols in 2006. The blog was as prepared for this week's installment as any this season.

• Gentry Estes: Wednesday reading: A new Luther Davis • al.com
It was the most asked question of spring practice, and one that seemingly no one could answer ... What is up with Luther Davis?

• Gentry Estes: Traffic information in Knoxville ... • al.com
To fans headed to Neyland Stadium on Saturday, UT released this information ...

• 2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference

• Expert Picks • CBSSportsline
Editor's Note: The CBSSports.com Expert Picks will feature a new look this year with extra analysis on two-to-three feature games each week. For Week 9, our Games of the Week are No. 7 Oklahoma State at No. 1 Texas, No. 3 Missouri at No. 10 Penn State and No. 9 Georgia at No. 11 LSU. Post your thoughts on the message board and your pick might be featured along side our experts! 

• The Harmon Forecast • CBSSportsline
In its 52st year, The Harmon Forecast predicts probable scores of college football games each week. The Harmon Forecast is powered by Accuscore . 

• Florida junior rolling in the offers • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"He's got a lot of interest in Alabama. I think he'll be visiting over there at some point..."

• Video of TI TV for October 21 • WVUA-TV
See it on WVUA7.com, the home of Tider Insider TV.

• Bama QB commit set to visit rival school • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Scout.com's #13 nationally rated QB committed to Alabama back in May, but he has decided to take in a few official visits to make sure he is making the right decision. 

• Sweeping the Southeast: Darren Myles JR • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Catching up with the region's top uncommitted players

• Richardson hopes to see LSU/Georgia • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Trent Richardson will take the ACT on Saturday and then jump in the car to head to Baton Rouge.

• Breaking down the BCS • 'BamaMag
With the first round of BCS rankings out, and a loaded Big 12 South, the possibilities are endless, but here's a look at several possible outcomes.

• Offensive Targets • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After signing 32 players in the 2008 class Alabama is expected to sign close to the full amount again in 2009. Last year's group resulted in the nation's top class and so far this year the UA staff has put together a class that continues to rise in the rankings with each commit.

• SEC Power Poll • BamaOnLine
An upset-free week in the Southeastern Conference didn't equate to a status qou pecking order in the Power Poll. There was plenty of movement in the middle portion of the SEC batting order. 

• Washington on nose • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama DL Lorenzo Washington has seen some practice time at noseguard this week as the UA staff considers options for a backup behind first-time starter Josh Chapman.

• Crimson Clubhouse: Feeling a draft • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
...am, a year after the Crimson Tide had no one selected for the first time since 1970. 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/21 - Cory Reamer

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/21 - Luther Davis

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/21 - Nick Walter

• Ball hawks • Tuscaloosa News
Bama's offense aware of UT's improved secondary

• UA swimmers No. 1 in national listings • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | More than a month into the season, the University of Alabama swimming and diving teams have a number of swimmers ranked among the nation's top 25 in a variety of events, including two at No. 1.

• Tide's David is SEC Athlete of the Week • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | University of Alabama junior Tyson David has earned his second SEC Athlete of the Week honor.

• Sara Vaughn is Freshman of the Week • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | University of Alabama freshman Sara Vaughn has earned her second SEC cross country Freshman of the Week honor.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/21 Practice

• Ian R. Rapoport: Rashad Johnson's first interception... and other stuff! • al.com
Last year, Alabama safety Rashad Johnson had six interceptions, so it wasn't unusual for him to walk in Monday for interviews and get asked about a pick.

• Gentry Estes: Tide's Lorenzo Washington back full-time at his old position • al.com
As was mentioned in today's notebook, Alabama's Lorenzo Washington returned to nose tackle at practice this week, bolstering depth now that

• Doug Segrest: This week's SEC page • al.com
****How important is the presidential election? It's huge -- especially for Southeastern Conference fortunes. I take a goofy look at the ties the bind presidents and great seasons in the SEC. 

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Nick Saban's nail takes aim at Fulmer's coffin • The Birmingham News
He enters the room, walks to the podium, asks how everyone's doing and then dives into his prepared remarks. 

• UAB players get some rest during the bye week • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Finally, Johnson gets a pick: 

• Sports Digest • The Birmingham News
WOMEN'S COLLEGE BASKETBALL 

• Alabama game means much to UT's Fulmer • The Huntsville Times
Vols QB says coach calls it an 'all-out war'

• Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days • SEC Sports
Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Cigars gone, but Tide-Vols game still huge • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Javier Arenas was a freshman football player on an airplane flight to Knoxville, Tenn., when the Alabama defensive back learned firsthand the importance of the rivalry between the Crimson Tide and the Tennessee Volunteers. 

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Intensity level high in practice • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama coach Nick Saban may not treat the annual rivalry with Tennessee any differently, but the players certainly noticed a difference in practice this week.

• Freshman Hightower having fun as Tide LB • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — When Alabama’s Dont’a Hightower lines up next to teammate Rolando McClain at linebacker, the two don’t talk about quantum physics.

• Some Bama players get history lesson • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Javier Arenas learned early about the importance of the Tennessee-Alabama rivalry. His classroom was at 35,000 feet, on the team charter to Knoxville.

• Tide continues Tennessee work • AlabamaFB
TUSCALOOSA – The second-ranked Alabama football team worked for two hours in full pads Tuesday afternoon at the Thomas-Drew Practice facility as preparation continues for Saturday’s Southeastern Conference game with the Tennessee Volunteers.

• Something different about Tennessee week • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"It is Tennessee and you know there's a bunch of history behind it," linebacker Cory Reamer says. "It's two great programs. It's always a game to be circled on your calendar." 

• Tide's Andre Smith Lombardi Finalist • 'BamaMag
Alabama left tackle Andre Smith has been named one of 12 semi-finalists for the 2008 Rotary Lombardi Award, presented by Wachovia. The Lombardi Award is presented to the nation’s top offensive or defensive lineman.

• Wide Focus • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Tana Patrick remains wide open and says he won't set official trips until his season is over.

• Fanney Makes Impact At Outside Linebacker • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Tennessee native was always an Alabama football fan

• Tide making strong move for Bumphis • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Tupelo wide receiver Chad Bumphis is one of the South’s most sought-after offensive targets. Among the favorites for Bumpis is Alabama who has been near the top of his list since receiving a Tide offer. This past weekend Bumphis made a return trip to the Capstone for an unofficial visit.

• Following the Future: Week 9 • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The University of Alabama has hauled in an impressive offensive line class, and week after week one of those steady performers has been Brookwood star Kellen Williams.

• Patrick accepts Army All-American bid • BamaOnLine
STEVENSON, Ala. –The small town of Stevenson, Ala., with just a couple of thousand people, rests just over the Tennessee-Alabama state line at the foot of the Cumberland Plateau. The local high school is North Jackson High and among its student body of around 500 students ... 

• Fanney fulfilling destiny to play for Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
There's really no mystery as to how a young man who grew up 40 miles from Knoxville, Tenn., wound up playing football at the University of Alabama.

• Alabama win, breakfast at the Sabans' help vault Tide into Bonds’ top three • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Not too many people can say they were treated to breakfast at the home of Alabama head coach Nick Saban. Chris Bonds, though, is one of the lucky few.

• Notebook: Vols may play Berry on offense • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Safety holds SEC career interception-return record

• VIDEO — Tuesday player interviews, Part I • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Brandon Deaderick and Brandon Fanney 

• VIDEO — Tuesday player interviews, Part II • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Antoine Caldwell and Luther Davis 

• VIDEO — Tuesday player interviews, Part III • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Cory Reamer and Nick Walker 

• Tuesday practice notes: Vol week continues • Crimson Confidential
Alexander back at practice 

• Fanney Looking Forward to Tennessee Game • RollTide.com
Alabama junior "jack" linebacker Brandon Fanney is excited about Saturday's game at Tennessee. 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
The Cecil Hurt Show 10/23/08

• Gentry Estes: Vols' Jones and Parker to be "game-time decisions" • al.com
Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer updated the Vols injury situation after practice this afternoon. As was little surprise before a big game, Fulmer didn't offer anything definite about all-purpose receiver Gerald Jones or offensive guard Anthony Parker, each of whom are nursing ankle sprains.

• Alabama-Tennessee: A Southern Tradition • RollTide.com
Paul Bryant played with a broken leg. W.T. "Bully" Vandegraff almost lost his right ear. So, just how important is the Alabama-Tennessee game? Just ask anyone who has been involved in the rivalry a...

• No. 25 Women's Swimming and Diving Headed for Elite Showdown at SMU Invite • RollTide.com
The No. 25 ranked Alabama women's swimming and diving is sending a contingent to Dallas, Texas this weekend for the SMU Invite, an elite gathering of six top-25 teams that will span Friday and Satu...

• Men's Tennis Gears up for Crimson Tide Fall Championships • RollTide.com
Following several road tournaments, the men's tennis team looks forward to hosting its one and only event at home this season in the Crimson Tide Fall Championships. Action will be held at the Univ... 

• Volleyball Welcomes Tennessee on Friday • RollTide.com
The volleyball team (10-8, 3-6) hosts Tennessee (13-8, 6-4) Friday night at the CAVE with opening serve slated for 7:00 p.m. (CST). The Crimson Tide looks to pick up a couple of key wins this weeke... 

• Men's Tennis Gears up for Crimson Tide Fall Championships • RollTide.com
Following several road tournaments, the men's tennis team looks forward to hosting its one and only event at home this season in the Crimson Tide Fall Championships. Action will be held at the Univ...

• Unclear if Stabler returning to Tide football • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) _ It was unclear Thursday whether Kenny Stabler will return to his radio job as the color man on Alabama football broadcasts following his acquittal in a drunken driving case.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Reliving last year's Tennessee game, the Vols' spread... and other stuff! • al.com
I gotta admit, walking into the Bryant-Denny Stadium press box and learning that five players were suspended for the Alabama-Tennessee game last year was completely bizarre. If I ever thought I'd get through life not knowing what it meant to violate textbook disbursement policy, man was I wrong.... 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Mal Moore speaks on Stabler's acquittal... • al.com
When news broke last night that Ken Stabler had been found not guilty on a charge of drunken driving, one of the first questions that emerged was, When will he rejoin the Crimson Tide football broadcasting team? Or will he ever?

• Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days • SEC Sports
Tipoff '09 - SEC Basketball Media Days

• Fearless Forecasters: College Edition • Dothan Eagle
Picks from the Eagle’s sports writers on five of this week’s college games: Alabama at Tennessee, Auburn at West Virginia, Troy at North Texas, Gerogia at LSU and Oklahoma State at Texas. 

• Crystal Ball: Bama will finish strong • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Alabama fans are eager to know how the Tide's recruiting class will finish. Given that there are so many top prospects still left on Bama's board, it's difficult to say exactly which ones will end up in Tuscaloosa. But with perhaps the nation's top recruiter, Nick Saban, in charge, it is safe to say it'll be a great class. 

• Coffee Knows Vols Tough On Runners • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Glen Coffee is looking forward to his second game against Tennessee Saturday. It will be his first outing against the Vols since 2005 when he was a freshman. In between he has been injured (redshirted in 2006) and suspended (part of the textbooks violations last fall). 

• UA-Tennessee: How they match up • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Where will the advantages for both teams be on Saturday when Alabama renews its annual rivalry with Tennessee in Knoxville? Check the Ultimate Ticket for BamaOnLine.com's position-by-position breakdown of this storied series.

• BOL Panel Picks Contest • BamaOnLine
Win a free year of BOL picking college games head-to-head against BOL staff, media, and ex-UA standouts like Roger Schultz (Biggest Loser), and 2004 team captain Todd Bates. 

• SEC notes: Steele's return has Tide at top • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Is one player really enough to lift a team from also-ran to contender? If the player is Ronald Steele, the answer is yes. Bob McClellan has all the news and notes from the SEC's preseason media event. 

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Special Teams Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama is second nationally in non-offensive touchdowns this season. The UA special teams has contributed two of those five non-offensive scores with an 87-yard punt return by Javier Arenas and a...

• Women's Golf Returns to Action at Derby Invitational • RollTide.com
The No. 7 Alabama women's golf team will play in its first tournament in nearly a month when the team competes in the Derby Invitational hosted by Auburn Oct. 24-26. The Tide joins 16 other teams l... 

• Rogers Earns Athletic Nomination for Homecoming • RollTide.com
Alabama All-American softball player Brittany Rogers was chosen to represent the athletic department as the female nomination on the upcoming homecoming ballot. Rogers was selected by a vote from h...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Steele and Chavis -- best buds since 10th grade... • al.com
I had always heard that Alabama head defensive coach Kevin Steele and Tennessee defensive coordinator John Chavis were friends. But until I started making calls this week, I wasn't sure exactly how close they were.

• Gentry Estes: Prospect watch: Faith for the playoff run • al.com
Mobile's Faith Academy has faired admirably in its first season in the public school league. One of the reasons is defensive back and all-purpose threat Gerald West, who transferred from Davidson for his senior season. 

• Gentry Estes: Thursday reading: Why is Alabama struggling in the second half? • al.com
The topic of today's Alabama SEC Extra story in the Press-Register deals with these recurring second-half letdowns. It's a theme of the program the past two years, and it could ultimately cost the Crimson Tide a game. 

• Dennis Pillion: Nick Saban, Alabama football player video interviews • al.com
Want to know what Nick Saban thinks about the Tennessee game? Watch his Wednesday afternoon press conference here: http://videos.al.com/al/2008/10/nick_saban_102208_press_confer.html

• Dennis Pillion: Alabama basketball season preview • al.com
While the Alabama football team has solidly captured the imagination and attention of the Crimson Tide fanbase, basketball season is steadily approaching, and this season will be an important one for Mark Gottfried and the Tide.

• SEC Games and Top Storylines: Week 9 • College Football News
What’s at stake in each Southeastern Conference game this week? 

• Quest For The BCS ... Who's In the Hunt? • College Football News
Realistically, who's in the hunt for the national title? From Alabama to Ball State, Texas to Notre Dame, who's still in the mix for the BCS slots? Richard Cirminiello begins his weekly look at the conference races, the quest for the BCS, and where the top teams stack up for the big money games.

• Penn State faces BCS road hurdle in the form of Ohio State • USAToday
Something happened on the way to Joe Paterno prematurely being run out of Happy Valley. Penn State became a national title contender.

• Scout.com SEC Pubs' Predictions: Week 9 • 'BamaMag
Big games on tap starting Thursday night.

• Auburn Verbal Taking Visits • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Jonathan Evans updates status with the Tigers.

• Pros Watch More Vols Than Tiders • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
NFL scouts will be in Neyland Stadium Saturday night

• Pass less, win more • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
He's passing for just 153.1 yards per game, down a whopping 65-plus yards from last year's norm of 218.9. Yet, some observers believe he's the most improved player in the Southeastern Conference.

• The Weekly Spread ‘Em • Crimson Country Club (Members Only)
Get your party kick started tonight with a match of two power houses!----Oh wait.... maybe it’s just a match up of two really good teams!.... No?..... OK.... Get ready to watch the ball flying all over the place with two dynamic spread offenses!.... Ah, hell with it.... Just watch Auburn lose… 

• Accolades for Williams • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Big Brookwood offensive lineman Kellen Williams is enjoying an outstanding senior season thus far, racking up dozens of pancake blocks this fall. This week, Williams was rewarded for his hard work with a prestigious award.

• PHOTO GALLERY: Gadsden duo AAA Bowl Announcement • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Dre Kirkpatrick and Kendall Kelly were selected on Wednesday to play in the Army All-American Bowl in San Anotonio, Texas on January 3. Click here to check out BOL's exclusive photo gallery of the announcement. 

• Crimson Tide has been in this spot before • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
It's happened before, just not in quite a while.

• Poor season is added incentive for Volunteers • Tuscaloosa News
The Tennessee Volunteers have a losing record and occupy the cellar in the Southeastern Conference Eastern Division standings.

• Hudson begins UA rebuilding job • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | There’s one thing that new University of Alabama women’s basketball coach Wendell Hudson won’t have to deal with in his first year at the Crimson Tide helm.

• Alabama soccer heads to Tennessee • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The Alabama soccer team (9-6-1, 4-4-0 SEC) will head to Knoxville, Tenn., for a rare Thursday night match. The Crimson Tide will face the Tennessee Lady Vols (8-8-0, 5-3-0 SEC) at 6 p.m. at the Regal Soccer Stadium. Alabama split last weekend's games while Tennessee earned a sweep over the Mississippi programs.

• Cecil Hurt: Fulmer’s future should not ride on one game • Tuscaloosa News
Over the course of covering the past eight coaching changes at the University of Alabama, one comes to realize that it is almost impossible to know, from the outside, what an administration is thinking in terms of a coaching change.

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting Chat Transcript • Tuscaloosa News
Chat transcript (10-22-08)

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/22 - Nick Saban

• Ian R. Rapoport: Glen Coffee's fumble-itis, Smokey... and other stuff! • al.com
Man... crazy day! To Birmingham for SEC Basketball Media Days, hang around for some interviews, write a whole bunch, back to Tuscaloosa for football practice, to the media room to talk to coach Nick Saban and a few others, and then more writing.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Stabler found "Not Guilty" on DUI charge... • al.com
Here's something that you weren't expecting past the 11 o'clock hour... The legal issues are over for former Alabama quarterback Ken Stabler. A few minutes ago in Robertsdale, Stabler was found not guilty on a drunken driving charge from this summer. 

• Gentry Estes: Ken Stabler acquitted on DUI charge • al.com
Breaking news tonight from Robertsdale, where former Alabama and NFL quarterback Ken Stabler has been found not guilty of the DUI charge that created an uproar this summer.

• Doug Segrest: Week 9 predictions • al.com
Big, intriguing week with some close calls. These are my picks. As usual, I welcome your predictions.

• Video: Nick Saban 10/22/08 Press Conference • al.com
Video: Nick Saban 10/22/08 Press Conference 

• Steele and Chavis, lifelong friends, meet Saturday • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA They have watched NASCAR races together in Charlotte, Daytona, and Darlington. They have ridden in the pace car at Talladega. They sneak in random golf outings and take their families on scuba diving trips to the Cayman Islands.

• Steele not looking back at knee issues • The Birmingham News
When he first heard the news, Alabama coach Mark Gottfried joked that it made him want to drink a bottle of Jack Daniel's. It wasn't much of a joke.

• Alabama's first-half dominance has fizzled after halftime • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Blemishes have been rare for this wildly successful team. Alabama is the only unbeaten Southeastern Conference team and one of nine in major college football. The offense has been sound and effective, the defense far better than anticipated.

• Alabama football notes for Saturday's game against Tennessee • Press-Register
No. 2 ALABAMA (7-0, 4-0) at TENNESSEE (3-4, 1-3) 6:45 p.m. Saturday (ESPN) Neyland Stadium Knoxville, Tenn. -- LINE: Alabama by 6cm HALF

• Crimson Tide preparing for possibility of Tennessee's Eric Berry playing on offense • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama is preparing for the "G-gun" formation in which Tennessee receiver Gerald Jones lines up at quarterback, even though Jones is unlikely to play Saturday night because of a sprained ankle.

• SEC football by the numbers • Press-Register
Coaches who have been on the sideline for at least 200 games with an SEC team. Tennessee's Phillip Fulmer will become the eighth when he leads the Volunteers against Alabama on Saturday. Coaches with at least 200 games at an SEC member are Alabama's Bear Bryant, Auburn's Shug Jordan, Georgia's Wally Butts and Vince Dooley, Georgia Tech's Bobby Dodd, LSU's Charlie McClendon and Ole Miss' Johnny Vaught.

• SEC NOTEBOOK • Press-Register
BIRMINGHAM - Wendell Hudson has a simple reason for leaving his post as the associate athletics director for alumni relations at Alabama to take over the Crimson Tide's struggling women's basketball program.

• Leads have been like Kryptonite for Bama • The Huntsville Times
Players not sure why super starts don't carry over to second half 

• Alabama football: Tide prepares for Vols' Berry • The Huntsville Times
Crimson Tide prepares for Volunteers' Berry 

• Experienced Alabama picked first in SEC West • The Huntsville Times
Star guard Steele among 9 players back for Tide 

• Fanney finds home on Tide's defense • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Brandon Fanney was one of several stars recruited to Alabama who couldn't seem to find a home. Academics delayed his entry, then he was redshirted in his initial year with the Crimson Tide in 2005.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Saban praises intensity of Crimson Tide practices • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama coach Nick Saban praised the intensity level of the Crimson Tide at practice this week and added the players on both sides of the ball faced "difficult preparation" this week in practice.

• SEC Basketball notebook: Tide's Steele anticipates emotional return • Montgomery Advertiser
BIRMINGHAM -- Ron Steele doesn't sound too worried about how his surgically re­paired knees will hold up when he finally takes the court again. 

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Traveler's advisory for UA-UT game • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- University of Tennessee and Knoxville officials are advising visitors to the Alabama-Tennessee game this weekend to be aware of interstate construction near Ney­land Stadium.

• Athens’ Brown ready to start for UT against Crimson Tide • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — On Monday morning, Tennessee defensive end Wes Brown woke up to see four or five interesting e-mails on his computer.

• Chapman has big shoes to fill for Tide • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Josh Chapman can’t win. Everything he does this week will be compared to Terrence Cody.

• SEC Fearless Predictions, Oct. 25 • College Football News
It's a shakeout week for the SEC pecking order with Alabama battling Tennessee, Florida gets a tougher-than-it-looks game against Kentucky, and Georgia goes to LSU where new stars, WR A.J. Green and RB Charles Scott, will get the spotlight. Check out the Previews and Predictions for the Week 9 SEC Games. 

• Bama requests tape of junior pass rusher • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"They've contacted me wanting tape of him. I've sent it to them and we're waiting to hear back from them." 

• Doggone Those Injuries • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
It had to be one of the most unusual injuries an Alabama football player has suffered. In what was basically a wasted season for Mike McCoy in 2005, his freshman year under Coach Mike Shula, McCoy was involved in two snaps in a game at Tennessee. One came on offense. The other came from Smokey the Vols’ mascot hound in pre-game warmups. 

• Tide Must Be Ready To Adjust To Vols • 'BamaMag
Alabama has had good practices in preparation for Tennessee

• Fluker focused on Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After recent rumors that Alabama line commit D.J. Fluker may be less than solid on his pledge to the Crimson Tide, UA fans have been a little nervous about the second-ranked offensive tackle nationally. In this recruiting update, Fluker addresses those concerns and talks about his senior season.

• Alabama lean Norwood, Saban discuss plans for rescheduled visit • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Kevin Norwood got a call from Alabama head coach Nick Saban Wednesday night. 

• Crimson Tide has been in this spot before • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
It's happened before, just not in quite a while.

• UT-Bama matchup chart • inside tennessee
What follows is a position-by-position comparison of Tennessee and Alabama, who collide Saturday night at 7:45 in Neyland Stadium:

• FRIDAY FLASHBACK: Humphrey, Tide Runs Past Vols, 56-28 • RollTide.com
All-American tailback Bobby Humphrey ran for 217 yards and three touchdowns as second-ranked Alabama ended a four-game series losing streak with 56-28 win over rival Tennessee at Neyland Stadium on... 

• Women's Golf Opens Derby Invitational in Second Place • RollTide.com
The No. 7 ranked Alabama women's golf team opened the Derby Invitational in second place. Despite battling inclement weather that pushed back the start of the play, Alabama fired a first round scor...

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting Chat Transcript Part ll • Tuscaloosa News
Chat Transcript Part ll (10-22-08)

• Gentry Estes: Countdown to Tennessee ... • al.com
No. 2 ALABAMA (7-0, 4-0)
at TENNESSEE (3-4, 1-3)

• Softball Prepares to Cap Off Fall Schedule • RollTide.com
The Alabama softball team will wrap up its fall schedule with four games in two days. A total of six games will be played at the Alabama Softball Complex over the course of the weekend. Fall Brawl ...

• Alabama-Tennessee Series: Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama leads the all-time series with Tennessee, 45-38-7, in a series that dates back to the 1901 season. 

• Smith, Cody Earn Sporting News Midseason All-America Honors • RollTide.com
The Sporting News named Alabama junior left tackle Andre Smith and junior nose guard Terrence Cody to its 2008 midseason All-America team on Friday. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Off to Knoxville... • al.com
One of my favorite things about every football season in an even year is the drive up to Knoxville. Through the mountains, past the different colored trees... very picturesque.

• Davis' road to Alabama a tough decision • AlabamaFB
TUSCALOOSA -- It may be just over four hours north of Baton Rouge, but West Monroe, La. is Tiger territory. With a population a smidge over 13,000, this small town claimed one of the nation's best high school defensive ends as there own, a player Les Miles had also claimed for LSU through a verbal commitment.

• GA '10 WR Short List • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Several schools keeping close watch. 

• The Whole Package • 'BamaMag
"Whenever I get that feeling that I want to be there, I'll commit," Adam Hall said. "It could be on my first trip or it could be on the last trip - I don't know. But I know there's not really one thing that I'm looking for. I want the whole package. I'm gonna have to live there for four years so I need to make sure I’m comfortable and that I really like everything about it..."

• Thoughts on the UT Series • Crimson Country Club (Members Only)
I think I enjoyed this series more when we were in the midst of the unexplainable streaks. I forget the numbers but it was like we won about 11 in a row, then they won 4 in a row, we went unbeaten about nine in a row and then they won in ‘95 kicking off a seven year unbeaten streak. It certainly wasn’t any fun to be on the sucky end of the streaks while they were happening but there was something magical about them because it defied explanation. But starting in ‘02 we ruined it by winning only once in a row before losing the following year in 49,000 overtimes. 

• Inside the Tunnel • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
What are the head-to-head matchups that will define the Alabama-Tennessee game? What are the stories behind the stats? Go Inside the Tunnel with BamaOnLine.com, our new Friday primer unlike any game preview you'll find anywhere. 

• Photo Gallery: Five-Star OL Bobby Massie • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The number one Prep School prospect in the country is Bobby Massie of Hargrave Military Academy. Schools across the country are pursuing him and one is Alabama. 

• Prep preview: Prospects a-plenty in Cougars-Titans clash • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Three of the top players in the state will be on display tonight at Cougar Stadium in Clay, as Clay-Chalkville hosts Gadsden City in a key Class 6A, Region 7 match-up.

• 2008 SEC Scores: 
West Virginia 34, Auburn 17

• Soccer:
Thursday Night: Alabama 1, Tennessee 1

• Soccer Earns Key Draw on the Road  • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team earned a key double-overtime draw on the road against Tennessee Thursday night. The two squads played the full 110 minutes to a 1-1 tie at Regal Soccer Stadium. Alabama used... 

• Senior season everything Caldwell hoped • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | It was a year ago today, not by the calendar, but the eve of the Third Saturday in October. The University of Alabama football team was settling in at its hotel to begin final preparations to face Tennessee at Bryant-Denny Stadium, when someone knocked on Antoine Caldwell’s door.

• Gee brings a new attitude to the court for senior season • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | Alonzo Gee has started for three years for the University of Alabama. He’s been a high-profile player who earned second-team all-conference honors last season. But many members of the Southeastern Conference media corps had to do a double-take before recognizing Gee on Wednesday — all because of a change in hairstyles.

• Pauly brings ‘incredible drive to win’ to UA team • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | You could say Amy Pauly is a little selfish. She always wants the volleyball.

• Ian R. Rapoport: What's going on with Dont'a Hightower? • al.com
The first thing you need to learn about Dont'a Hightower is how to spell his first name. That apostrophe comes after the "t" not before it, even if it means you have to go back and delete a second apostrophe. But you want to know more, right?

• Doug Segrest: SEC Power Poll: Week 9 • al.com
What do SOS readers know that the BCS doesn't? It's simple: don't count out the Florida Gators.

• Chris's Blog - Friday October 24th • Chris Stewart Sports
10:00 a.m. - Starting a busy weekend, with a look back at Thursday night....

• Heady Hightower thriving at inside linebacker for Alabama • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Dont'a Hightower did not ascend to the top of recruiting boards around the South for his on-field skills alone.

• COLLEGE BEATS • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA 

• Alabama players suspended over textbooks last season get their chance against Tennessee • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - When Alabama rolled over Tennessee at Bryant-Denny Stadium last season, center Antoine Caldwell and tailback Glen Coffee were not there.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Friday, October 24, 2008
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. 

• Texas quarterbacks starting for five SEC football teams • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - At some point Saturday night, Alabama's Greg McElroy will seek out fellow Texan Nick Stephens of Tennessee to offer a postgame greeting between quarterbacks.

• Berry brings Vols a smile • The Huntsville Times
Tennessee star defensive back is an aspiring dentist

• Caldwell, Coffee glad to be playing UT on Saturday • The Huntsville Times
Caldwell, Coffee glad to be playing UT on Saturday 

• Tide vs. Vols in hockey Saturday at VBC • The Huntsville Times
While Alabama prepares to take on Tennessee in SEC football Saturday night, their hockey counterparts will face off that afternoon in SEC club hockey at the Von Braun Center.

• Seven SEC Players Are SNT Midseason All-Americans • SEC Sports
Seven SEC Players Are SNT Midseason All-Americans 

• SEC Soccer Roundup - Thursday, October 23rd • SEC Sports
SEC Soccer Roundup - Thursday, October 23rd

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL: Vols gain confidence before facing Tide • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- A win over the Southeastern Confer­ence's worst team hardly seems like a confidence booster. 

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Unclear if Stabler returns to Tide • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- It was unclear Thursday whether Kenny Stabler will return to his radio job as the color man on Alabama football broadcasts following his acquittal in a drunken driving case.

• Fanney returns home • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Don Woods stared at the hulking 240-pound high school freshman defensive end with the long arms standing in front of him.

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
Alabama safety Rashad Johnson jokes that he thoroughly enjoyed all the questions he received about not making an interception this year. 

• Tide can't take Vols lightly • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
A primetime setting on Saturday night in Knoxville will mark the 91st meeting between second-ranked Alabama (7-0, 4-0 SEC) and Tennessee (3-4, 1-3 SEC). Over 100,000 fans will be inside Neyland Stadium to witness one of college football's most storied rivalries kick off at 6:45 p.m. In a game pitting two teams heading in opposite directions, the Tide will attempt to remain undefeated by pulling off back-to-back wins against the Vols for the first time in over 15 years. At the same time, Tennessee will look to avenge last year's embarrassing loss and remove Alabama's name from the national championship race. 

• Comparing Bama, Vols Statistically • 'BamaMag
Playing Tennessee in football is something like going for a colonoscopy. You know you have to do it. You know there is a good chance it will be unpleasant. You have to prepare. You know you are going to be better off for having done it. And the closer it gets, the scarier the proposition. 

• UA makes move on four-star athlete • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
There has never been a doubt that the Alabama coaching staff puts a premium on multi-dimensional athletes when on the recruiting trail. Prospects that project at numerous positions and on either side of the ball are worth their weight in gold. Monday the Tide jumped into the mix for one of the nation’s top athletes when they extended the four-star prospect an offer.

• Five players to watch in Saturday's game • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
For good or ill, the Alabama-Tennessee game

• SEC's best recruiters, by school • Crimson Confidential
Here's a look at 12 outstanding recruiters from each team in the Southeastern Conference. 

• Crimson Clubhouse: Cody, Smith earn mid-season honors • Crimson Confidential
Tide duo on TSN All-America team 

• Crimson Tide has been in this spot before • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama has been unbeaten going into Knoxville many times 

• Football:
Alabama 29, Tennnessee 9

• 2008 SEC Scores: 
Florida 63, Kentucky 5

• Volleyball:
Friday Night: Tennessee 3, Alabama 0

• Alabama Football Gameday • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama football team ventures into the SEC East for a showdown with Tennessee on Saturday, Oct. 25. The game is slated to kickoff at 6:45 p.m. (CDT) and will be televised nationa...

• Men's Tennis Rolls at Crimson Tide Fall Championships • RollTide.com
The men's tennis team didn't let rain get in the way of its success Friday as the Crimson Tide picked up 13 wins on the first day of play at the Crimson Tide Fall Championships. Six of Alabama's wi... 

• Women's Swimming and Diving Takes a Pair of Second Place Finishes at SMU Invite • RollTide.com
The No. 25 Alabama women's swimming and diving team came away with a pair of second place finishes on day one of the SMU Invite. 

• Volleyball Drops Close Match to Tennessee • RollTide.com
The volleyball team was edged by Tennessee Friday night at the CAVE 3-0. Despite the three-set sweep, each frame was decided by a score of 25-22. With the loss, the Crimson Tide stumbles to 10-9 ov... 

• Women's Tennis Nets Four Doubles Wins at ITA Regionals • RollTide.com
Meritt Emery and Alice Tunaru picked up a set of wins Friday to advance to the semifinal round of the ITA South Regional Tennis Championship held at the Dan Magill Tennis Complex. A total of three ...

• Under new coordinators, Tide soars, Vols do not • Tuscaloosa News
It has the potential to be worrisome news for the University of Alabama football team on Saturday afternoon. David Cutcliffe will be back in Tennessee on Saturday.

• STAFF PICKS: Alabama at Tennessee • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama travels to Knoxville to try and extend their flawless 2008 record. Here are the staff picks for today's game against Tennessee as the Tide goes for eight in a row to start the season. 

• THE CALL by Tommy Deas • Tuscaloosa News
Each week, Executive Sports Editor Tommy Deas breaks down the match-up between Alabama and its opponent. Here's his take on this week's SEC showdown against Tennessee.

• EA SPORTS PREPLAY: Alabama upset by Vols • Tuscaloosa News
Each week we let the computer battle itself in EASports NCAA 2009 on Playstation 3. We'll post the results each week on Game Day to see how close the simulated game plays to the real thing.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Predictions, anyone? (Game 8) • al.com
Hello from Knoxville, where it's cold, rainy, and perfect weather for football in the fall. So you'll wear a jacket... whatever. It'll be a classic atmosphere.

• Even in rivalry week, Saban treats Tennessee like any other opponent • The Birmingham News
KNOXVILLE - When Nick Saban arrived in January 2007, he changed the face of Alabama-Tennessee week.

• 5 THINGS TO WATCH NATIONALLY • The Birmingham News
1. Ohio State fatigue returns. Get ready for plenty of moaning around the country once Ohio State knocks off No. 

• Tide buzz: Keys to the Alabama- Tennessee game • The Birmingham News
1.How Alabama's defense reacts to the loss of Terrence Cody. When the 365-pound Cody went down against Ole Miss, it created immediate doubt for a defense that had played well. Josh Chapman and Lorenzo Washington will attempt to fill in, but will they be similarly effective? 

• 'Pivotal moment:' Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee hope to turn season against unbeaten Alabama • Press-Register
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - What could be more satisfying for an Alabama fan than a rare win at Tennessee's mammoth Neyland Stadium? 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Saturday, October 25, 2008
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's hopes high • The Huntsville Times
No. 2 Alabama tries for rare win at Neyland Stadium  

• SEC Volleyball Roundup - Friday, October 24th • SEC Sports
SEC Volleyball Roundup - Friday, October 24th

• The Road to Orange Beach - October 24th • SEC Sports
The Road to Orange Beach - October 24th

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Alabama's Smith, Cody make All-American list • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama left tackle Andre Smith and nose tackle Terrence Cody are among 26 players selected to the Sporting News Today's midseason All-America team. 

• GAME DAY: Tide expects Tennessee's best • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- It's a been a long time since Tennessee has finished at the bottom of the Southeastern Conference standings.

• GAME DAY: 10 factors that could affect UA-UT battle • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- After Alabama's 41-17 beat- down of Tennessee last year and the struggles the Volunteers have had this season, there are plenty of reasons why you might expect the Crimson Tide to roll over the Vols at Neyland Stadium tonight.

• GAME DAY: Who's got the edge between Alabama and Tennessee? • Montgomery Advertiser
Quarterback:

• The 2nd-half show • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — For Alabama left tackle Andre Smith, it’s just human nature.

• Tide, Vols ready to resume stories rivalry • Dothan Eagle
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee-Alabama college football rivalry is all about preparation.

• Harrison Jones Collects Offer • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Elite TE prospect talks of schools interest.

• Sanders talks Tide win • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
One of the top in-state defensive players for 2010 already has an elite offer list, and last Saturday Ariton defensive end Craig Sanders took in Alabama's big win over Ole Miss. Check inside for the skinny on this 6-foot-4, 230-pounder's trip and the latest on his early recruitment. 

• Game Day Preview: Alabama at Tennessee • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Here's a position-by-position breakdown of today's game between the Crimson Tide and Volunteers:

• Bama in the NFL - Week 8 Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did this week 

• SUNDAY REWIND: Alabama 29, Tennessee 9 • RollTide.com
Here is a look back at Alabama's 29-9 win over Tennessee on Saturday, Oct. 25 at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville. The Crimson Tide has back-to-back wins over the Volunteers, including last year's 41-1... 

• Men's Tennis Wins Four Finals at Fall Championships • RollTide.com
The men's tennis team finished strong capturing two singles finals and both of the doubles finals at its Crimson Tide Fall Championships Sunday. 

• Women's Golf Takes Third at the Derby • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's golf team earned its third top five finish in four outings this fall with a third place finish at the Derby Invitational in Auburn, Ala. The Tide shot a final round 296 (+8) on ...

• BCS Analysis - Week Two • College Football News
It's week two of the BCS rankings, and while there wasn't much of a change at the top, there was a major move in the middle of the pack with Brian Johnson's Utah team making a huge push by getting into the top ten. Check out the breakdown and analysis of Week 2 of the BCS rankings. 

• What Stands In Way Of National Title? • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
A Crimson Tide fan can dream can’t he (or she)? National championships have been the mantra of Alabama football since that day in late summer of 1958 when new Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant addressed his first recruiting class. He assured Pat Trammell, Billy Neighbors, Tommy Brooker and company that if they would follow his plan they would win the national championship. 

• Tenn. LB Talks SEC Football, Favorite • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
College football draws attention in the South.

• Alabama stays No. 2 in BCS standings • Crimson Confidential
Alabama remained No. 2 in the Bowl Championship Series standings released Sunday, keeping itself in position to play for the national championship.

• Softball:
Alabama 15, Chattanooga  State 0 (5)

• Softball:
Alabama 8, Wallace State 0 5)

• Soccer:
Georgia 2, Alabama 0

• Volleyball:
Kentucky 3, Alabama 0

• Softball Concludes Fall Play with Two More Wins • RollTide.com
The Alabama softball team concluded its fall exhibition play with two more wins Sunday afternoon at the UA Softball Complex. The Crimson Tide opened play with a 15-0 victory over Chattanooga State ...

• Soccer Falls to Georgia 2-0 in Home Finale • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team concluded its home schedule with a 2-0 loss to Georgia Sunday afternoon at the UA Soccer Complex. The Bulldogs found the net twice in the first half and held on to earn the ...

• Volleyball Nipped by No. 22 Wildcats • RollTide.com
The volleyball team was edged in its second close match of the weekend by No. 22 Kentucky Sunday at the CAVE 3-0. In similar fashion to Friday's contest with Tennessee, the match was decided by onl... 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama-Tennessee, the day after... • al.com
For a quarterback who led two teams to 6-6 regular season records, John Parker Wilson is not always appreciated. He is, rightfully so, tied to his team's record and performance. Yet at every chance, coach Nick Saban has praised his play and his leadership.

• Gentry Estes: Tide still No. 2 in both polls • al.com
No surprise here, but Alabama held ground at No. 2 in both the Associated Press and USA Today coaches polls.

• Gentry Estes: Sunday Morning QB: Alabama 29, Tennessee 9 • al.com
The leaves are turning. The weather has grown colder. Halloween is this week. 

• Doug Segrest: Week 9 SEC grades • al.com
These are our weekly grades, based on expectations, performance and the secret formula for Coke. 

• Chris's Blog - Sunday October 26th • Chris Stewart Sports
9:10 a.m. EDT (Knoxville) - Headed home... 

• 2008 SEC Football - Week 10 Sunday Notebook • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football - Week 10 Sunday Notebook

• SEC Soccer Roundup - Sunday, October 26th • SEC Sports
SEC Soccer Roundup - Sunday, October 26th

• SEC Volleyball Roundup - Sunday, October 26th • SEC Sports
SEC Volleyball Roundup - Sunday, October 26th

• Tide remains No. 2 in polls • AlabamaFB
NEW YORK -- Texas Tech has its highest ranking in the AP Top 25 in 32 years, and a chance to make another momentous leap coming up.

• PHOTO GALLERY: Tide rolls over Rocky Top • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama Crimson Tide continued their perfect season with a 29-9 win over it's arch rival Tennessee on Saturday night. Click here to check out BamaOnLine.com's exclusive photo gallery and see all the action from the Tide's big win. 

• Alabama Beats Tennessee 29-9 • RollTide.com
No. 2 ranked Alabama beat Tennessee 29-9, for its third win in the past four years over the Volunteers, going to 8-0 overall and 5-0 in the Southeastern Conference while UT falls to 3-5, 1-4 SEC. A...

• Orange peeled: Tide dominates Tennessee • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | It is a series that has produced its share of magical moments – but Saturday night wasn’t magical, just methodical.

• Better late than never for Upchurch • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | Roy Upchurch had to wait until midway through the third quarter before he carried the ball for the University of Alabama on Saturday, but he quickly made up for lost time.

• Cecil Hurt: Alabama is 'Joe the Plumber' • Tuscaloosa News
Nick Saban would probably never alter the iconic University of Alabama football uniform – not even to add a blue collar.

• Offense dominates behind Wilson • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | It didn’t seem right that the person who initiated the longest offensive play Saturday night didn’t get to enjoy it.

• No second-half letdown this time • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | The second-ranked University of Alabama football team took a little less commanding lead than usual into the locker room at halftime of Saturday’s game at Tennessee.

• Defense dominates despite Cody's absence • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | It says something about a defense when the opposition is given the ball at the 5-yard line but fails to reach the end zone.

• NOTEBOOK: Same story, another solid start for Tide • Tuscaloosa News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. | Although for the first time this season the University of Alabama football team didn’t reach the end zone in the first quarter, it still made two field goals for an early 6-3 lead.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
UA - UT: Offense Highlights

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
UA - UT: Defense Highlights

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10-25: Saban Tenn. Postgame

• TideSports Photos • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama at Tennessee

• Ian R. Rapoport: Stabler won't return to radio booth in 2008 • al.com
Just wanted to quickly call your attention to this note in today's Birmingham News. Even with his recent acquittal, Alabama legend Kenny Stabler will have to wait until 2009 to be back on the radio. Check it out:

• Ian R. Rapoport: Smoke 'em if you got 'em: Alabama 29, Tennessee 9 • al.com
Cigars are outlawed by the NCAA as party favors for players after a win in the storied rivalry. But I bet a few of you guys might be lighting them up right now. For the second consecutive season, this one was a blowout. 

• Gentry Estes: "We played well for 60 minutes" • al.com
The only happiness in Knoxville right now is wearing crimson.

• Dennis Pillion: Alabama tops Tennessee 29-9 • al.com
Upset brewing? Not exactly. The Crimson Tide jumped ahead of the Vols early and never let up, en route to a 29-9 victory at Neyland Stadium.

• Alabama blows out Tennessee again, 29-9 • The Birmingham News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Of all the Alabama players, perhaps no one on the team is as deeply steeped in the program's tradition as quarterback John Parker Wilson.

• No Terrence Cody, no problem for Alabama defense • The Birmingham News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - No Terrence Cody. For one night, no problem.

• Alabama 2-minute drill • The Birmingham News
WHY ALABAMA WON: The Crimson Tide took control early, never allowed its special teams gaffes to matter, then put the pedal down in the second half. This time, thanks to its physical running game, it left no doubt in the final 30 minutes. 

• Grading the Tide • The Birmingham News
Offense: A A Steady, efficient, and productive, Alabama gained 366 yards, led by John Parker Wilson's 188 yards passing. 

• Sound Off • The Birmingham News
Sunday, October 26, 2008

• Tommy Hicks: SEC West title headed to T-town • Press-Register
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Mathematically speaking, LSU is still in the hunt for the SEC West crown. But realistically speaking, it's over. Alabama has won it. 

• BUSINESS AS USUAL: • Press-Register
Saban pleased with unbeaten Alabama's latest road rout
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - With each victory in Alabama's ongoing unbeaten run, no matter how dominant or exciting, something irked a finicky, demanding coach.

• ALABAMA BEAT REPORT: Crimson Tide notches another impressive road win • Press-Register
-- OFFENSE: Tennessee was determined to make Alabama throw the football, moving eight and nine defenders into the box to stuff the run and create the most effective pass rush John Parker Wilson has experienced this season.

• Alabama defense sets tone early, shuts down Vols • Press-Register
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - In many respects, Alabama beat Tennessee Saturday night in the first quarter, and early in the period. 

• Alabama notebook: Chapman, Washington fill Cody's space on Crimson Tide defensive line • Press-Register
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - As expected, the absence of nose tackle Terrence Cody meant Lorenzo Washington moved into the two-man rotation with Josh Chapman.

• ALABAMA RECRUITING CORNER: UA targets eye All-Star games • Press-Register
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Now is the time of year where high school standouts began committing not just to schools but to postseason all-star games.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Sunday, October 26, 2008
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 comments can be published. 

• Mark McCarter: Saban's light shines at UA • The Huntsville Times
KNOXVILLE - First, he jogged over to the far corner and pumped an exultant fist toward the Alabama band and a cluster of fans. 

• Tide completely dominates Vols • The Huntsville Times
Alabama rides strong defense, ground game 

• A week in the life of a football GA • The Huntsville Times
No two weeks are totally alike, but here's a typical week in the life of a graduate assistant coach, outside of Saturday's game:

• Saban favors relaxing NCAA rules on GAs • The Huntsville Times
Nick Saban notes that "it's not easy to gain experience to be a college coach." 

• SEC head coaches were schooled by humble beginnings • The Huntsville Times
Tommy Tuberville painted bus benches in Miami and worked as a janitor on the cruise ships.

• A defensive gem • The Huntsville Times
Star tackle Cody stayed home, but Alabama swamped Vols anyway 

• Tide notebook • The Huntsville Times
Washington and Chapman fill in for injured NG 

• UT loss raises heat under Fulmer • The Huntsville Times
KNOXVILLE - The stands at Neyland Stadium were never full Saturday.

• Jess Nicholas: Tennessee wrap-up: Alabama finally finishes big • TideFans.com
There are wins, and there are physical wins. Then there are physical beatdowns.

• SEC Football Roundup - Saturday, October 25th • SEC Sports
SEC Football Roundup - Saturday, October 25th

• Tide takes care of business against Vols • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- The good news is Alabama played a complete game on Saturday night. The bad news is that the second-ranked Crimson Tide needed most, if not all, of the 60 minutes to dispose of the Ten­nessee Volunteers.

• Photos • Montgomery Advertiser
Bama plays Tennessee

• ALABAMA: Roy Upchurch provides change of pace for Crimson Tide offense • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Glen Coffee or Mark Ingram?

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Julio Jones steps up for Crimson Tide offense • Montgomery Advertiser
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Alabama freshman receiver Julio Jones was a primary catalyst in Alabama's 29-9 win over the Volunteers on Saturday night, establishing career highs in catches (six) and yards (103). Jones' previous highs were five catches against Western Kentucky and 94 yards at Georgia.

• Rout with the Tide • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
The sound of “Rocky Top” played by the Tennessee marching band couldn’t drown out the screams of the Alabama fans.

• Wilson gives Alabama what it needs • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
John Parker Wilson probably wouldn’t hold up in the Big XII Conference.

• Alabama hammers Tennessee • Dothan Eagle
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Long before Alabama put the final touches on its 29-9 victory over Tennessee, the Crimson Tide defense played with the swagger of a unit that recognized its dominance. 

• Alabama notes: It’s been a while • Dothan Eagle
Alabama faced Tennessee with the nation’s No. 2 ranking for the first time since 1993.

• CFN Rankings - No. 1 to 119 - Week 9 • College Football News
It's time to readjust. Remembering the rankings are based on how good the teams are at the moment, there are some wild fluctuations in this week's list. Just because you win, that doesn't mean you were impressive. Check out the latest CFN ranking of all 119 teams, and check back Sunday afternoon as WE'LL HAVE THE FIRST ANALYSIS OF THE BCS 

• 2008 Bowl Projections ... Oct. 26 • College Football News
Predicting and projecting the possible post-season matchups

• Bowl Predictions • CBS Sports
Comment: With Texas' victory over Oklahoma, Missouri and Oklahoma State, we predict the Longhorns will meet the Crimson Tide in the BCS National Title. Texas' last national title game was the 2006 Rose Bowl where it defeated USC 41-38. USC's loss earlier in the year opened the door for the SEC champion to meet the Big champion. The SEC champion -- Georgia, Florida, Alabama or LSU -- would be in prime position with only one loss. The SEC has made its mark on the BCS title game, winning the last two (LSU in 2007 and Florida in 2006) and third in the past five seasons (LSU in 2004).

• No. 2 Tide douse struggling Volunteers in Knoxville • CBS Sports
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Nick Saban has turned the "Third Saturday in October" rivalry back to Alabama's favor, and left Phillip Fulmer with yet another ugly loss to explain to Tennessee fans. 

• Bama puts Fulmer, Vols out of business • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
A few years ago, Phillip Fulmer said that Alabama football would soon be out of business. But tonight, it was Alabama that put Fulmer and his Tennessee team out of business with an impressive 29-9 manhandling of the Volunteers in front of more than 102,000 fans at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville. 

• Alabama's Complete Game Beats Vols • 'BamaMag
Second ranked Alabama ran its record to 8-0 with a convincing victory over Tennessee in Knoxville. The Crimson Tide, which had faltered in second halves of many games this year, had its most complete performance of the season and downed the Vols, 29-9. 

• Saban Calls Tide Win Most Complete Game • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama coach says Bama is a blue collar team playing physical football

• Upchurch Wanted To Help Tide Win • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Tide junior tailback hopes to give Bama offense a spark

• Notes From Tide’s Win Over Tennessee • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama wins for third time in four years over Vols

• The Nickel: UT • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Heading into Alabama's visit to Neyland Stadium Saturday night, there were more questions about the Tennessee Volunteers and their coach than the Crimson Tide. Still, we somehow managed to come up with five questions for UA.

• Notebook: Keeping up with the Jones • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Julio Jones picked an ideal time for his first career 100-yard receiving game: In Knoxville, Tenn. against one of his team's two biggest rivals. 

• VIDEO: Nick Saban's post-UT news conference • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Alabama head coach Nick Saban addressed the media following his team's 29-9 win over Tennessee Saturday night. 

• Instant Analysis: UT • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- The Alabama Crimson Tide made it two in a row over Tennessee Saturday night, drubbing the Vols 29-9. BOL staffers Travis Reier and Chase Goodbread provide insight moments after UA's ... 

• UA defense: Rocky road • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE - When Rashad Johnson shot through the heart of Tennessee's offensive line and sacked Nick Stephens for a loss on seven in the first quarter Saturday night, notice was served:

• 10 game-shaping plays • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - BamaOnLine.com brings you a look at the 10 plays that impacted Saturday's 29-9 Alabama win over Tennessee a Neyland Stadium the most.

• 'Blue-collar' Alabama grinds out 29-9 win over Tennessee (video included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Alabama's 29-9 win over Tennessee didn't exactly have Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban smiling, but it was the kind of effort of which the old defensive coach could be proud.

• Five things we know after Alabama-Tennessee • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Many of us figured Alabama would be something akin to an 8-win team in 2008. We just didn't know the Crimson Tide would be an 8-win team by the end of October. 

• VIDEO — Nick Saban's post-game press conference • Crimson Confidential
Alabama coach Nick Saban discusses the win over Tennessee 

• VIDEO — Josh Chapman, post-game interview • Crimson Confidential
Alabama nose guard Josh Chapman 

• Notebook: Alabama extends recent dominance over Tennessee • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Tide has won two straight, three of four

• Final stats — Alabama 29, Tennessee 9 • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Tide improves to 8-0 

• No. 6 Crimson Tide Finish Fall Golf Schedule at Isleworth Collegiate Invitational • RollTide.com
Eighth of the nation's top 10 teams will compete in Windermere, Fla. at the Isleworth Golf and Country Club

• Women's Golf in Third After Second Round • RollTide.com
Sweden Duo Paces Alabama on Day Two 

• Rowing Wins Five Medals at the Head of the Tennessee Regatta • RollTide.com
The Crimson Tide won two gold, a silver and two bronze medals on the Tennessee River 

• Softball Earns a Pair of Victories in Fall Brawl II • RollTide.com
Eubanks Perfect at the Plate for Alabama 

• Softball:
Alabama 8, Chattanooga  State 0 (5)

• Softball:
Alabama 8, Wallace State 0 (6)

• Godwin Advances to Quarterfinals at ITA Southern Regionals • RollTide.com
Senior Shelley Godwin picked up a pair of wins Saturday securing a bid to the "B" draw quarterfinals of the ITA Southern Regional Championships held at the Dan Magill Tennis Complex. The Tide picke...

• Men's Tennis wins 15 on Day Two of Crimson Tide Fall Championships • RollTide.com
The men's tennis team picked up 15 wins, three in doubles and 12 in singles, on the second day of play at the Crimson Tide Fall Championships. Mathieu Thibaudeau, Michael Jung and Ricky Doverspike ... 

• Women's Swimming and Diving Duo Grabs Bronze at SMU Invite • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's swimming and diving team closed out the SMU Invite with a trio of third-place finishes in a meet in which all six teams in attendance are ranked among the nation's top-25. No. 1...

• Football:
Alabama 29, Tennnessee 9 - box score

• Semifinalist for Davey O'Brien Award • RollTide.com
University of Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson was among 13 Football Bowl Subdivision quarterbacks selected as semifinalists for the 2008 Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award the Davey O'...

• CBS Sports to Televise Alabama-LSU Game • RollTide.com
The Southeastern Conference office announced Monday that CBS Sports will televise the Alabama-LSU on Saturday, Nov. 8 from Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. The kickoff will be at 2:30 p.m. (CST). 

• Men's Golf in Third After Second Round of the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational • RollTide.com
The Alabama men's golf team shot a 3-over-par round of 291 in the second round of the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational on Monday afternoon at the par-72, 7,544-yard Isleworth Golf and Country Club.

• Coach Nick Saban Press Conference Transcript • RollTide.com
Alabama head football coach Nick Saban held his weekly press conference on Monday in Tuscaloosa.

• Alabama Football Player Quotes - Oct. 27 • RollTide.com
Selected Alabama football players met with the media Monday afternoon to discuss the Homecoming game against Arkansas State on Saturday, Nov. 1, at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

• Coaching Staff Names Players of the Week • RollTide.com
Eight players honored after 29-9 win at Tennessee

• Godwin Wins B Draw Singles Final at Southern Regionals • RollTide.com
Crimson Tide Senior Improves to 9-2 on the season 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Oakley played Saturday with a heavy heart... • al.com
What you saw Saturday against Tennessee was Alabama receiver Will Oakley making a key, 14-yard catch that helped keep an eventual touchdown drive going in Alabama's 29-9 win over the Vols. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: CBS for Alabama-LSU Game... and something on this week's opponent. • al.com
One thing about Mondays is that if something gets released after I leave for the weekly news conference, I can't post it until I return from talking to players. So, while the Twitter people learned of the fact that Alabama-LSU will be on CBS and kickoff at 2:30, the rest of you didn't. Sorry...

• Gentry Estes: Tide's John Parker Wilson named semifinalist for O'Brien Award • al.com
Is Alabama senior John Parker Wilson one of the nation's 13 best college quarterbacks? The Davey O'Brien Foundation thinks so. 

• Gentry Estes: Mondays with Saban: Taking care of business • al.com
It's all about consistency, Alabama coach Nick Saban likes to stress, which usually goes for his own messages during weekly press conferences. 

• Video: Nick Saban 10/27/08 Press Conference and Player Interviews • al.com
Alabama Crimson Tide Coach Nick Saban discussed the 29-9 win over Tennessee and preparations for this weekend's contest against Arkansas State in his Monday press conference. The second part of the press conference is after the jump.

• The Road to Orange Beach - October 27th • SEC Sports
The Road to Orange Beach - October 27th

• Three SEC QBs Named 2008 O'Brien Award Semifinalists • SEC Sports
Three SEC QBs Named 2008 O'Brien Award Semifinalists

• AT&T Announces Week 7 Teams to Advance in All-Time Greatest Team Tournament • SEC Sports
AT&T Announces Week 7 Teams to Advance in All-Time Greatest Team Tournament

• SEC Roundup - Week 9 Standings & More • College Football News
SEC conference roundup, standings, player and game of the week

• Practice Report: 10/27/08 • Bama Sports Report
The Red Wolves of Arkansas State are coming to town this Saturday to face the Tide at 2:00 PM. It’s Homecoming at the Capstone, and the Alabama football team will be looking to reverse a disturbing trend of horrible play in November.

• Week 9: The “Third” Saturday In October • Bama Sports Report
Sorry for the lack of posts by me over the last few days. My wireless card refused to work for me in Knoxville, and I’ve returned home sick. If my health improves in the next couple of days I will try to do my normal game review posts, but just in case, here are some

• Tide begins prep for Arkansas State • AlabamaFB
Staff names players of week, LSU game time set 

• Top pass rusher likely to visit UA • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Fletcher Cox says that he's still committed to Mississippi State. But the standout linebacker/defensive end from Yazoo City, MS won't completely close the door on other schools.

• Saban: No external factors allowed • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Veteran reporters who cover Alabama for a living have learned not to ask Coach Nick Saban about things like rankings. Saban, whose team is ranked number 2 this week in the BCS, couldn't care less. 

• Saban Consistent In His Approach • 'BamaMag
Is there anyone who can imagine Alabama Coach Nick Saban saying something along the lines of how he’d like to run up the score to impress the voters in football polls? 

• Breaking down the BCS Week 2 • 'BamaMag
Who's up, Who's Down, Who's Out? Scout.com breaks down the latest BCS rankings.

• Poised and Smart • 'BamaMag
Eugene Smith remains open-minded and is looking forward to two November official visits.

• Staff Picks Eight For Weekly Honors • 'BamaMag
Beat the snot out of a major rival and reward a number of players. That’s the way it looks this week after Alabama’s convincing 29-9 win over Tennessee in Knoxville Saturday. The Crimson Tide coaching staff named three players on offense, three on defense and two on special teams as Players of the Week.

• Notebook: Family matters • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama wide receiver Will Oakley had more on his mind than football as the Crimson Tide's rivalry with Tennessee approached last week. Check the Ultimate Ticket for notes on Oakley and more with BamaOnLine.com's Monday notebook.

• Monday practice report • BamaOnLine
Alabama safety Justin Woodall and the rest of the UA football team began preparations for Homecoming opponent Arkansas State on Monday. Click here for BamaOnLine.com's Monday practice report.

• Notebook: Saban serious about Arkansas State’s capabilities • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama football coach Nick Saban didn’t just say all the right things about supposed lightweight Arkansas State Monday during his weekly press conference. You could tell he believed it, too.

• Monday practice notes: Two in black • Crimson Confidential
No. 2 Alabama (8-0, 5-0) was back on the practice field after its 29-9 victory over Tennessee Saturday night in Knoxville. A few notes from the cold and windy media viewing period: 

• Wilson a Davey O'Brien semifinalist • Crimson Confidential
Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson was named on Monday as one of 13 semifinalists for the Davey O'Brien Award, given annually to the top quarterback in the country.

• VIDEO — Nick Saban's Monday press conference • Crimson Confidential
Alabama coach Nick Saban discusses the upcoming game against Arkansas State 

• VIDEO — Monday player interviews, Part I • Crimson Confidential
Javier Arenas, Rolando McClain and Josh Chapman

• VIDEO — Monday player interviews, Part II • Crimson Confidential
Antoine Caldwell and Mike Johnson 

• VIDEO — Monday player interviews, Part III • Crimson Confidential
John Parker Wilson and Rashad Johnson

• SEC Football Television Schedule for November 8th • SEC Sports
SEC Football Television Schedule for November 8th

• Quest For The BCS ... Who's In the Hunt? • College Football News
Realistically, who's in the hunt for the national title? From Alabama to Ball State, Texas to Notre Dame, who's still in the mix for the BCS slots? Richard Cirminiello continues his weekly look at the conference races, the quest for the BCS, and where the top teams stack up for the big money games. 

• Tate sets sights on six schools • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
One official visit is behind Donavan Tate and four more will take place before he decides on who he will sign with in February. The Rivals250 athlete has four official visits set and it looks like Alabama has made the short list.

• Alabama Hosts Arkansas State from Homecoming • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama football steps out of Southeastern Conference play to face the Arkansas State Red Wolves for Homecoming at the Capstone on Saturday, Nov. 1. The game is slated to kickoff ... 

• Julio Jones named SEC Freshman of the Week • Tuscaloosa News
Julio Jones earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors for his performance against Tennessee in the Tide's 29-9 win on Saturday.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Julio named SEC freshman of the week... and links! • al.com
A few notes and links before I head off to talk to coach Nick Saban and some Alabama players about the win over Tennessee and about this week's game.

• Gentry Estes: Alabama-LSU game will be on CBS • al.com
CBS just announced that it will televise Alabama's Nov. 8 game at LSU, meaning a 2:30 p.m. kickoff time in Baton Rouge. 

• Gentry Estes: Monday reading: The Joe Pa popularity theory • al.com
With the polls holding steady and keeping unbeaten Alabama at No. 2 in the BCS and unbeaten Penn State at No. 3, it has raised a topic of discussion for the remainder of the season.

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

• National prospect impressed with Bama • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"Alabama is a rising program. Alabama is having a great season. They are a program with a great coaching staff and a lot of young players..." 

• Grading the Tide: UA 29, Tennessee 9 • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's running backs turned in a stellar grade against UT as Glen Coffee scored a touchdown.

• Crimson Tide Golfers Lead After Round One of the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational • RollTide.com
The Alabama men's golf team has the opening round lead at the UCF-Isleworth Collegiate Invitational after firing a 1-under par 287 on Sunday at the par-72, 7,544-yard Isleworth Golf and Country Club. 

• Crimson Tide first and 10 • Tuscaloosa News
The University of Alabama’s football game at Tennessee on Saturday night was like watching a python snake at feeding time.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Breaking a tendency, 3-1 vs. the Vols... and other stuff! • al.com
One of the more interesting things I learned about last year was coach Nick Saban emphasis on self-scouting. Remember this? I always think of this now when coaches talk about their tendencies.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Alabama is too close, too good not to return to Atlanta now • The Birmingham News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Alabama 29, Tennessee 9 means two things. 

• Ray Melick: Against the Volunteers, winning is best revenge • The Birmingham News
These appear to be desperate times for Phillip Fulmer. 

• Penn State improves BCS average, but can't take No. 2 spot from Alabama • The Birmingham News
If there were any questions of whether an undefeated Penn State could surpass an undefeated Alabama in the Bowl Championship Series standings in December, the answer came Sunday.

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Offensive coaches mixed in the pass:

• Nick Saban: Alabama is a blue-collar team • The Birmingham News
The search for Alabama's identity is over. 

• Tommy Hicks: Big 12 surpasses the SEC • Press-Register
The Big 12 Conference is making a strong statement that it, not the SEC, is the best football league in the country this season. 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Monday, October 27, 2008
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 comments can be published. 

• Paul Gattis:  A • The Huntsville Times
To dismiss Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee must address a $6 million buyout clause. 

• Jess Nicholas: Arkansas State preview: Alabama out for Sun Belt revenge • TideFans.com
Alabama didn’t play Arkansas State in 2007, but the Red Wolves – better known as the Indians prior to a NCAA-mandated nickname change – won’t be sneaking up on Alabama, much as they would like to.

• Jess Nicholas: SEC preview and predictions – Week 10 • TideFans.com
Once again, an upset special comes back to bite the Predictions Dept. where it hurts: Duke upset Vanderbilt in a game many saw coming but few had the guts to pick. This week, the Commodores will rest, before continuing their slide out of the bowl picture by getting creamed...

• Defense steps up in Cody’s absence • Crimson White
Alabama didn’t seem to miss Terrence Cody as the defense held Tennessee to 173 yards on offense and just 36 yards rushing in the Tide’s 29-9 win over the Volunteers.

• Alabama shut out by Georgia 2-0 • Crimson White
The Alabama soccer team suffered a 2-0 defeat to Georgia in the final game at the UA soccer complex, leaving the Crimson Tide with a 9-7-2 record.

• Tide swept by No. 22 Wildcats • Crimson White
The Alabama volleyball team fell in three sets to No. 22 Kentucky Sunday by the scores of 23-25, 22-25 and 21-25.

• COLLEGE FOOTBALL • Montgomery Advertiser
Tide grinds out a complete game
Alabama coach Nick Saban said he has "never been prouder" of his team for its gritty workmanlike performance in Saturday's 29-9 win over Ten­nessee, saying the defense's domination of the sputtering Volunteers and his offense's me­thodical approach were typical of the 2008 edition of the Crimson...

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide suffers some bumps and bruises • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama coach Nick Saban said the Crimson Tide emerged from Saturday's game with Ten­ nessee battered and bruised but didn't expect any players to miss next week's game with Arkansas State because of injuries suf­ fered in the game with the Vol­ unteers.

• Alabama holds off Penn State in latest BCS standings • Montgomery Advertiser
Alabama was able to hold on to the No. 2 ranking in the second Bowl Championship Series standings, but No. 3 Penn State’s win over No. 9 Ohio State on Saturday allowed the Nittany Lions to cut into Alabama’s lead.

• SPORTS BRIEFS: Stabler won't return to 'Bama broadcast in '08 • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Former Alabama and NFL quarterback Ken Stabler will not return to the broadcast booth this season.

• Looking ahead • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
It’s unclear whether Alabama already has made travel reservations for Atlanta in the first weekend of December.

• Sentiment for JoePa won’t doom Bama • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
An unbeaten Alabama team won’t get left out of the BCS national championship game. 

• SEC Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
In the second half of Saturday’s 29-9 win over Tennessee, Alabama needed a change of pace. With freshman running back Mark Ingram struggling, the Crimson Tide called upon Roy Upchurch. 

• 5 Thoughts - Does Bama Deserve To Be No. 2? • College Football News
Does Alabama automatically deserve to be No. 2 over Penn State? Texas Tech becoming really good, the mediocre play overall (outside of the Big 12), paging Todd Boeckman, and the flawless playoff idea in the latest 5 Thoughts. 

• Steen excited about the Tide • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
There's no question that one of the Tide's top pickups this past summer was offensive lineman Anthony Steen of Lee Academy in Clarksdale. The 6-3½, 302-pounder earned an early offer based on an impressive junior season and an outstanding performance at summer camp.

• Tide commit talks about LSU visit • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"It went pretty good. It was a nice trip. I had to take the ACT on Saturday morning, so I didn't get there until the third quarter. But it was fun." 

• Gordon impressed with Tide win • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
While many top football prospects were certainly interested in the outcome of Alabama's big 29-9 win over Tennessee, perhaps no single recruit watched Saturday night's contest more intently than Hillsboro athlete Eric Gordon. 

• 2010 Georgia star has Tide interested • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
A recent visitor to the University of Alabama was Gainesville (Ga.) wide receiver Tailer Jones, a 6-foot, 174-pound dynamo who has already landed three big offers. A fourth could be on the way from the Crimson Tide.

• Film study: Alabama-Tennessee • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Things are always a little clearer a day later, especially when you've got pause, rewind and fast-forward buttons. I DVR Alabama's games every Saturday and then watch them again on Sunday, inevitably picking up on things I didn't see with the naked eye while at the game.

• Alabama target Robinson still not ready to give up on Auburn • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Another week. Another Auburn loss. Another Alabama win.

• Tide Preps for ASU Offense • RollTide.com
The second-ranked University of Alabama football team practiced for two hours in full pads Tuesday afternoon as they continue preparation for Saturday's homecoming game with the Arkansas State Red ... 

• Crimson Tide Finish Second at UCF-Isleworth Collegiate • RollTide.com
The sixth-ranked Alabama men's golf team wrapped up its fall season with a second place finish at the UCF-Isleworth Collegiate Invitational on Tuesday. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Whoa... Big Cody! • al.com
Unless you've been living in a cave, you probably know that that monstrous middle of Alabama's defense has been out. Terrence Cody, the 365-pounder, sprained an MCL and he is out at least one more game. So what has he been up to?

• Ian R. Rapoport: A heartwarming story on Roy Upchurch... • al.com
I had planned on writing an article on Roy Upchurch for today's paper, not a stretch considering he had his best game against Tennessee. I was going to write about his dances with the fullback position and his improvement off the field.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Nick Saban at USC? It almost happened... • al.com
You look at Southern Cal now, and it seems like coach Pete Carroll is a perfect fit. He's laid back and media savvy enough to keep that town interested. He recruits like crazy and wins a ton. But did you know Carroll almost never had the opportunity to accept the job? When the Trojans tried to hire Paul Hackett in December of 1997, they had another coach in mind.

• Gentry Estes: Terrence Cody on the mend ... • al.com
Just returned from Alabama's practice and wanted to pass along this news ... 

• Gentry Estes: Tuesday reading: Alabama's November curse • al.com
Alabama's homecoming game against Arkansas State on Saturday will technically take place in the month of November.

• Ben Culpepper: Alabama vs Tennessee Report Card Results • al.com
The Alabama football team earned stellar grades for their 29-9 road victory over the Tennessee Volunteers. Saban described this win as the Tide's first "complete" game since the pounding of Clemson and was extremely proud of his team's efforts.

• Chris's Blog - Tuesday October 28th • Chris Stewart Sports
5:00 p.m. CDT - Lunch with my daughter... And some people just don't get it.... 

• 2008 SEC Football - Week 10 Game Previews • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football - Week 10 Game Previews

• SEC West Players to Watch • College Football News
Players on the move or with something to prove in week ten in the SEC West

• Practice Report: 10/28/08 • Bama Sports Report
It was back into full pads on Tuesday for the Crimson Tide football team. The big change for the Tide was the weather, with temperatures in Tuscaloosa coming in under 60 degrees. It’s expected to be a little warmer on Saturday for the game, but that’s one of those external factors that Coach Saban doesn’t

• Tide recruiting on a roll • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Interest in the Crimson Tide seems to be growing by the week. Most say that nothing could top last year's class.

• Blue-chip DL close to a decision • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"If I had to say, I would say that Alabama is right there at the top of his list. He loves the tradition..." 

• Tide's Number One Is Middle Linebacker • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
It took Alabama Coach Nick Saban a few moments to mention Number One. No, not the current national college football polls, or a potential BCS spot for his Crimson Tide. Saban was asked about the linebacker situation in his regular Monday press briefing, specifically about how a potential weak spot in pre-season analysis had become a Bama strength. 

• Alabama’s Wilson In Select Company • 'BamaMag
Alabama has had its share of good quarterbacks. The current man at that position has passed them all in every meaningful passing statistic. No wonder Crimson Tide senior John Parker Wilson gets national attention.

• Southeast Recruiting Notebook • 'BamaMag
Catch up on the latest news around the South in this week's Southeast Recruiting Notebook.

• Tuesday practice report • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama Crimson Tide continued its preparation for the Arkansas State Red Wolves on Tuesday with a full pad practice. Click here to check out BamaOnLine.com's observations from today. 

• The Zoom Lens: Josh Chapman • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
BOL members chose Josh Chapman as the subject of this week's edition of The Zoom Lens, an interactive feature allowing subscribers to choose the subject of a game analysis. 

• 2010 TE watches brother, Tide roll • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Evangelical Christian tight end Harrison Jones figures to be among the top prospects in Tennessee for 2010, and one of his early suitors just happened to be the program of choice for his older brother Barrett. 

• Richardson climbs to No. 5 in latest ESPNU 150 • Crimson Confidential
ESPN Scouts Inc. released its latest ESPNU 150 list of the top players in the country for 2009 on Tuesday, and there was a big shakeup at the top.

• Tuesday practice report: Preparation for Red Wolves continues • Crimson Confidential
Second-ranked Alabama (8-0, 5-0) continued preparations for Sun Belt foe Arkansas State (4-3, 2-1) Tuesday at the outdoor practice facility. A few notes from the media viewing period: 

• Under Armour All-American interested in Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Montgomery No. 22 on ESPNU 150 

• Volleyball Takes on Bulldogs in Midweek Matchup • RollTide.com
The volleyball team will travel to Starkville, Miss. for a midweek contest with Mississippi State on Wednesday. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. (CST).

• Tuesday Tide Trivia • RollTide.com
Alabama Crimson Tide football trivia can be found each Tuesday on RollTide.com.

• Alabama Football: Offensive Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama improved to 8-0 for the first time since 2005 with its 29-9 win over Tennessee last Saturday in Knoxville. Take a look at the Crimson Tide offense in this week's offensive notebook on Roll...

• Women's Basketball Exhibition Game Changed • RollTide.com
The women's basketball exhibition game against West Alabama has been moved from Saturday, Nov. 8 to Friday, Nov. 7 at 6:00 p.m. (CST).

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting Chat Transcript Part ll • Tuscaloosa News
Chat Transcript Part ll (10-22-08) 

• Tide's special teams need to 'fair' better • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | When a punt is in air, University of Alabama return specialist Javier Arenas can be the equivalent of a sitting duck.

• CRIMSON TIDE NOTEBOOK: Bama focused on itself, not BCS • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | While most of the college football world has been widely speculating on what could, or should occur with the national championship game if the University of Alabama, Texas and Penn State all finish undefeated, the Crimson Tide has decided not to waste time worrying about Bowl Championship Series rankings or scoring style points with voters.

• Andrew Bone: Recruits like Alabama's defense • Tuscaloosa News
We discussed a couple of weeks ago the top offensive targets remaining on the Tide's recruiting radar. We take a look this week at the defensive targets remaining on the recruiting board.

• Ian R. Rapoport: November Rain for Alabama... and other stuff! • al.com
Soon, it will be November. On Saturday, actually. Going back to the loss to LSU in 2005, that hasn't been good for Alabama. Got any ideas why?

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Jimmy Sexton says some coaches want no part of the SEC • The Birmingham News
Memo to Auburn or Tennessee or any other major college football program that thinks it might be a good idea to fire your current coach and hire a proven winner like, say, Butch Davis. 

• Ray Melick: Nick Saban happy with a win? Say it ain't so  • The Birmingham News
Somebody check the ID of this guy who says he's Nick Saban.  

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Tide plans to change November luck: 

• Tommy Hicks: Big 12 surpasses the SEC • Press-Register
The Big 12 Conference is making a strong statement that it, not the SEC, is the best football league in the country this season. 

• Arenas has few chances to break a long return • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - It takes more than a muffed punt to dent the confidence of Alabama cornerback and return man Javier Arenas. 

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
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 wants victories not 'style points' • The Huntsville Times
Tide coach not concerned with rankings, ratings 

• Alabama must reverse November curse • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Three wins in five years. Nine straight losses. The most embarrassing loss in school history.

• College Football Notebook • Montgomery Advertiser
Tide QB Wilson semifinalist for Davey O'Brien award

• Lack of injuries helps UA to 8-0 • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama coach Nick Saban knocked on his dark wood podium Monday during his weekly news conference. 

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
TUSCALOOSA — The last time Alabama faced a Sun Belt Conference team, the Crimson Tide suffered perhaps its most embarrassing moment of last season. 

• Tide trio running through opponents • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama leads the Southeastern Conference in rushing, but the Crimson Tide pounds defenses with a trio of running backs, not one star. 

• UA visit planned for Stewart • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The University of Alabama coaching staff is still in pursuit of several prospects committed to other schools, especially on the defensive side of the ball. One of their big-time targets is Shreveport linebacker Jonathan Stewart. 

• Four Star DT Bonds Discusses Visit • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Bonds, a four star defensive tackle from Columbia, S.C., has been a busy recruit in recent weeks as he tries to wrap up his decision before the end of the year. After watching Alabama dismantle Tennessee in Knoxville, where does the Rivals250 member stand now? 

• Upchurch wearing several hats for Crimson Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
The concept of playing fullback was so foreign to Roy Upchurch that all he could do was laugh when it was first suggested to him.

• Crimson Tide Continues Work for Red Wolves • RollTide.com
The second-ranked University of Alabama football team worked for two hours in full pads for the second straight day Wednesday afternoon as preparations continue for Saturday's homecoming game with ...

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
Cecil Hurt Show: Dave Hart UA's Exec. Dir.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/29 - Practice

• Cecil Hurt: Julio Jones measures up well so far • Tuscaloosa News
When Julio Jones arrived on the University of Alabama campus this summer, people knew, more or less, what to expect. They just didn't know how much.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Saban kicks them in the you-know-what, Washington's opening... and other stuff! • al.com
You can always tell what kind of day it was on the practice field by the way Alabama coach Nick Saban looks when he walks in the media room. If it's been a good practice, he's kind of light and jovial. If it's been a bad one, he goes quickly to the podium and begins gruffly.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain speaks! • al.com
If you read today's Birmingham News, you probably noticed this article about Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain. I know you guys don't know him too well, since he rarely conducts interviews. He did Monday, so take this opportunity to reintroduce yourself to McClain:

• Ian R. Rapoport: This Alabama basketball team might look a little different... • al.com
A quick basketball interlude before I get back to work on some football stuff I'm doing for tomorrow. I just gone done talking to coach Mark Gottfried and some players, and one thing clear is that this year's team might not look at all like the classic, two big men and a cloud of dust (or whatever) teams of the past. 

• Gentry Estes: Hoops notes: Senario Hillman as a sophomore ... • al.com
To hear Alabama basketball coach Mark Gottfried today, it sounds like sophomore guard Senario Hillman can expect to play a whole lot for the Crimson Tide this season. 

• The Huddle: Alabama Edition • Dothan Eagle
Alabama faces Arkansas State at home. The will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. It is Pay-per-view.

• Russ Mitchell: Mitchell Blog: Fightin' for Bama #2 • College Football News
Given its schedule and statistical rankings, is 'bama the #2 in America? 

• Tide players working hard • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"This is a challenging game for us. It's a challenging preparation because of the style of offense that Arkansas State runs and the quarterback that they have running it."

• Louisiana DL plans to visit UA • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"I love Alabama," he says. "Alabama has a good team. They're having a great season. I like Coach Davis a lot. He would be a great position coach to play for." 

• Early Look: SEC Offer '10 LB • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Jawara White, 2010 linebacker from Troy-Charles Henderson, (Ala.), projects as one of the top linebackers in the South. White has collected one SEC offer and receiving interest from schools across the country. He named early favorites. 

• So Far, So Good Says Gottfried • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama basketball coach Mark Gottfried likes what he sees from his team.

• Notebook: Cody on mend • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
UA coach Nick Saban met with the media for the final time before Saturday's Homecoming game against Arkansas State. 

• Wednesday practice report • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
UA continued preparations for Homecoming against Arkansas State as injured noseguard Terrence Cody was up to something new in his rehab from a knee sprain.

• Saban: Cody 'coming along' • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama defensive tackle Terrence Cody is "coming along" in his recovery from a sprained knee, but definitely will not play in Saturday's game against Arkansas State, coach Nick Saban said Wednesday.

• VIDEO — Nick Saban's Wednesday press conference • Crimson Confidential
Alabama coach Nick Saban discusses the upcoming game against Arkansas State

• VIDEO — Glen Coffee interview • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama running back Glen Coffee talks about the upcoming Arkansas State game

• No. 2 Tide continues preparation for Red Wolves • Crimson Confidential
Cody continues recovery 

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Defensive Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama is in the top 20 nationally in four defensive categories after eight games this season. The Tide is second in rushing defense (62.4 rushing yards per game), fifth in total defense (263.1 to... 

• Student-Athletes to Host Halloween Extravaganza • RollTide.com
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will host the annual Halloween Extravaganza on Thursday, October 30, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the Indoor Football Facility at the Athletic Complex. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Saban hopes to have Cody back by LSU... and links! • al.com
As we learned yesterday, Alabama nose tackle Terrence Cody spent part of Tuesday's practice jogging around the field, which was generally viewed as a good sign. This morning, coach Nick Saban sounded as hopefully as he has about the 365-pounder's sprained MCL in his right knee.

• Gentry Estes: View from the other side: Arkansas State • al.com
Alabama heads back out of conference this week and we welcome Matt Roberson, beat writer for the Jonesboro Sun, to get everyone better acquainted with the Arkansas State team visiting Bryant-Denny Stadium for homecoming Saturday afternoon. 

• Gentry Estes: Wednesday reading: Tuscaloosa's Smelley brothers • al.com
Freshman tight end and Tuscaloosa native Brad Smelley has been the surprise of Alabama's past two games. Not only did he burn a redshirt year out of the blue, he is now a recurring contibutor to the Crimson Tide's offense and special teams.

• 2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference

• Top junior RB expecting UA offer • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
One of top juniors in Alabama is already drawing strong interest from Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, LSU, Ohio State and Northwestern. It's expected that he'll pick up an offer from the Crimson Tide staff very soon.

• Season winding down for Orr • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
While several of the prospects committed to the Tide are waiting for one final playoff run, the high school career of Anthony Orr is almost over. The 6-4, 262-pound defensive end from Sparkman HS in Harvest has been one of the few bright spots on a team that's having a tough season. 

• Expert Picks • CBS Sportsline
Editor's Note: The CBSSports.com Expert Picks will feature a new look this year with extra analysis on two-to-three feature games each week. For Week 9, our Games of the Week are No. 1 Texas at No. 6 Texas Tech, No. 5 Florida vs. No. 8 Georgia. Post your thoughts on the message board and your pick might be featured along side our experts! 

• The Harmon Forecast • CBS Sportsline
In its 52nd year, The Harmon Forecast predicts probable scores of college football games each week. The Harmon Forecast is powered by Accuscore . 

• Reamer Says Bama Reminded Of Mistake • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
How can Alabama players be expected to concentrate on Arkansas State when LSU is just around the corner? After all, this year’s Alabama-LSU game in Baton Rouge on November 8 will probably be for the Southeastern Conference Western Division championship. And who can forget that Bama lost a heart-breaking one touchdown game to LSU last year? 

• The War Room • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
With the holiday season fast-approaching, football recruiting is heating up across the country and the Alabama coaching staff is hard at work as well. In this new installment of the BOL War Room get the latest scoop on a number of top prospects, including one five-star out-of-state prospect that has the Tide near the top of his list.

• SEC Power Poll • BamaOnLine
As the division races begin to come into focus, it appears as if Alabama is headed for a showdown in Atlanta with either Georgia or Florida, who will settle their differences Saturday in Jacksonville. 

• Bama in the NBA - October 28th Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did.

• Agustina de Giovanni named SEC Swimmer of the Week • RollTide.com
Alabama junior Agustina de Giovanni was named Southeastern Conference Swimmer of the Week the league office announced today following a trio top-three finishes at the SMU Invite. 

• Through the ranks • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Watching University of Alabama senior safety Rashad Johnson in action this season can be a lot like enjoying a Calvin and Hobbes comic strip.

• Exhibition game changed for Tide • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama women's basketball exhibition game against West Alabama has been moved from Saturday Nov. 8 to Friday Nov. 7 at 6 p.m.

• Judge ends Caffey bankruptcy; women can sue • Tuscaloosa News
MOBILE | A judge has dismissed former NBA player Jason Caffey's bankruptcy case, clearing the way for several women to sue him for thousands of dollars in child support.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Practice

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Leigh Tiffin

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Cory Reamer

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Kareem Jackson

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Lorenzo Washington

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
10/28 - Brandon Deadrick

• Ian R. Rapoport: Chest bumping with Saban, making fun of Arenas... and other stuff! • al.com
Maybe it's the 8-0 record, maybe it's a team coming off a big win. But it was definitely a light-hearted day around the Mal Moore Administration Building. Cornerback Kareem Jackson came in, and that usually means he's going to take a few jabs at his buddy Javier Arenas.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Signee Jermaine Preyear is ready to rejoin Tide • al.com
Of the signees who didn't make it to Alabama's team this fall, the most surprising was former Davidson running back Jermaine Preyear, who made it into school this summer and then wound up withdrawing for fall semester and grayshirting -- meaning his eligibility clock didn't start -- for the 2008 season.

• UA's Rolando McClain standing out among the nation's best • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Rolando McClain has been warned.

• Five players on Briarwood Christian football team can boast fathers... • The Birmingham News
... who played for the University of Alabama
Briarwood Christian's athletic colors are Blue and Gold, but that doesn't mean you won't see a fair amount of Crimson and White at football games and practices.

• McClain among nation's best • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Rolando McClain has been warned.

• Paul Fienbaum: Year has been tough to figure • Press-Register
Let your mind wander with me for just a moment. For the sake of argument, say your best friend has been out of the country for two months, doing mission work in the jungles of South America. No telephone, no television, no Blackberry. 

• Arenas has few chances to break a long return • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - It takes more than a muffed punt to dent the confidence of Alabama cornerback and return man Javier Arenas. 

• Bama not playing for style points • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - He recoils from the phrase as if it were an obscenity. 

• Smelley seizes chance to contribute • The Huntsville Times
Saban needed coaxing to take redshirt off freshman tight end 

• Alabama football: Freshman RB Preyear rehabbing bum shoulder • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - In the Alabama weight room this summer, no one noticed when freshman Jermaine Preyear's bum right shoulder first popped out of place.

• SEC Swimming and Diving Weekly Honors Announced • SEC Sports
SEC Swimming and Diving Weekly Honors Announced 

• Arenas talks team rank, last week’s game • Crimson White
For the Tide’s flamboyant junior defensive back, running his mouth comes about as easily as running towards the end zone, and he is fun to watch no matter which one he’s doing.

• Salstrand brings aggressive style • Crimson White
Many factors help this season’s Alabama volleyball team as it fights to get a footing in the SEC West. One of those factors is junior outside hitter Elizabeth Salstrand, who has spent the last three seasons making key plays for the Crimson Tide.

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Upchurch happy to contribute • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Roy Upchurch, a third-string tailback for second-ranked Alabama, admits that on some Saturdays, he's content watching the one-two punch of Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram propel the Southeastern Conference's top-rated rushing offense to another victory.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Cody progressing but not expected to play Saturday • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Nose tackle Terrence Cody is not expected to play this weekend against Arkansas State, but the junior showed little effects from the strained knee ligaments he suffered 10 days ago in the Ole Miss game as he jogged around during practice. 

• 9s vital to Tide’s success • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama kicker Leigh Tiffin and nose tackle Josh Chapman share a special bond. It has nothing to do with their personalities, positions or sizes, as the 303-pound Chapman weighs more than 100 pounds more than Tiffin. 

• Alabama dealing with distractions • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — University of Alabama football players are aware of it. So is Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban. 

• LSU QB Hatch Out With Injury • Bama Sports Report
According to QAFB TV in Baton Rouge LSU quarterback Andrew Hatch has suffered a leg fracture. The Tigers play Tulane this week and will have only Jarrett Lee and freshman Jordan Jefferson available. With Jefferson set to possibly redshirt it is not thought that he will play.
With Alabama heading to Baton Rouge in just 11 

• November is important for Tide • AlabamaFB
Alabama has a nine-game losing streak in November 

• Bama not taking Arkansas State lightly • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"They've got a good team," linebacker Cory Reamer said following Tuesday's practice. "They've got a bunch of explosive players that can make plays on both sides of the ball. They're capable of making big plays…" 

• Love hopes to follow in brother's footsteps • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Mountain Brook defensive lineman Wilson Love has enjoyed a huge junior season and is starting to make a name of his own after the national recruitment of his five-star brother Tyler Love. In this premium football recruiting update, get the latest on Love's season and recruitment.

• History lesson: Alabama hopes to avoid ULM-style slip-up against Arkansas State • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Cory Reamer has a healthy respect for Arkansas State, and it has nothing to do with talented players like defensive end Alex Carrington, quarterback Corey Leonard or running backs Reggie Arnold and Derek Lawson.

• Ankle injury forces Patterson to reschedule visit • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
He’s yet to make an Alabama home game this season, but Pat Patterson is still looking hard at the Crimson Tide as a possible college destination. 

• Pat Forde: If The Dash has his way, there will be BCS chaos • ESPN
Forty names, games, teams and minutiae making news in college football ("Time to Harvest the Great Pumpkin" (1) T-shirts sold separately in Knoxville, Tenn.): 

• Soccer to Conclude Regular Season • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team (9-7-2, 4-5-1 SEC) will close out its regular season schedule on the road against rival Auburn (10-7-2, 6-3-1 SEC). The Crimson Tide will head to the plains and face the Tig... 

• Crimson Tide Wraps Up Work Week • RollTide.com
The second-ranked University of Alabama football team wrapped up a good week of work with a 90-minute practice in helmets and shoulder pads Thursday afternoon in the Hank Crisp Indoor Facility. 

• Crimson Tide Wraps Up Work Week • RollTide.com
The second-ranked University of Alabama football team wrapped up a good week of work with a 90-minute practice in helmets and shoulder pads Thursday afternoon in the Hank Crisp Indoor Facility. 

• Women's Cross Country to Compete at SEC Championships • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's cross country team will travel to Starkville, Miss. on Nov. 3 to compete at the SEC Championships hosted by Mississippi State University. Alabama has won the conference champion... 

• Homecoming: A Crimson Tide Tradition • 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. 1...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Arkansas State's quarterback, Saban's birthday... and other stuff! • al.com
You want to know one interesting thing about Alabama's opponent this week, Arkansas State? Players and coach Nick Saban keep talking about how similar ASU's scheme is to what Florida runs. Sure, Corey Leonard is small and quick and UF's Tim Tebow is big and strong, but the looks are similar.

• Ian R. Rapoport:  Saban on chest bumping: "You oughta try it some time..." • al.com
As you probably noticed last night, Alabama coach Nick Saban was a little, well, charged up. As promised, let's take a look at his performance.

• Ian R. Rapoport: How do voters view margin of victory? • al.com
It's one of the almost unanswerable questions going around right now: How much does margin of victory matter to voters? And does Alabama need to win big and pretty? 

• Gentry Estes: Prospect watch: Finishing up strong 
While many Alabama commits are preparing high school teams for playoff runs, there are those in the state like St. Paul's quarterback AJ McCarron who know for sure that their high school careers will come to an end this week. 

• SEC Cross Country Championship Set for Nov. 3 • SEC Sports
SEC Cross Country Championship Set for Nov. 3

• This Is Type Game To Worry About • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
I didn't realize how bad the problem was until a radio sports show called and asked me to be on for a few minutes to talk about Alabama. I can talk about Alabama. But when I was asked a relatively simple question about Arkansas State, I realized I didn't have my game face on. I could remember the name of the Red Wolves head coach and the results of a few of their games. That was it. 

• UA-Arkansas State: How they match up • BamaOnLine
Alabama hosts Arkansas State Saturday for Homecoming as a heavy favorite against the Red Wolves. BOL takes a position-by-position look at the game with our weekly match-up preview. 

• Bama in the NFL • BamaOnLine
Each week, BamaOnLine.com 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 ... 

• ESPNU 150 trio headline visitors list • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
This weekend's list of on-campus visitors isn't as large as some in recent weeks, but there will definitely be a number of quality prospects on-hand for Alabama's game against Arkansas State on Saturday.

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Special Teams Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama junior kicker Leigh Tiffin leads the SEC and ranks 13th nationally with 1.62 field goals per game this season. Check out the latest on the UA special teams in this week's notebook on RollTi... 

• Ian R. Rapoport: How do voters view margin of victory? • al.com
It's one of the almost unanswerable questions going around right now: How much does margin of victory matter to voters? And does Alabama need to win big and pretty?

• Gentry Estes: Baton Rouge is fired up about Nick Saban's return • al.com
What's the best way to gear up for a big football game ... AND promote condominiums in Baton Rouge at the same time? 

• Gentry Estes: Thursday reading: Mike Johnson's improbable ride • al.com
Mike Johnson says he never thought he'd be where he is now.

• Doug Segrest: The SOS Playoff Plan -- yes, it's back with a vengeance • al.com
Remember the SOS Playoff Plan? (That would stand for Segrest on the SEC, of course). I unveiled it last year. A few of you have asked for a refresher course, so we'll see how it would fit this season.

• Doug Segrest: Recruiting: Up Close and Personal with Tim Simon and Ryan Smith • al.com
NOTE FROM DOUG: If you don't like recruiting, move on. I'll have fresh college football coverage later today.

• SEC Lists 38 Former Players on NBA Rosters • SEC Sports
Birmingham, Ala. -- The Southeastern Conference maintains its strong presence in the NBA for the 2008-2009 season as 38 former players are on 22 of the 30 NBA team's rosters to open the season. Ten of the 12 SEC schools have former standouts holding roster spots at the beginning of the league's 63rd season.

• SEC-TV on FSN South - Thursday, October 30th • SEC Sports
SEC-TV on FSN South - Thursday, October 30th

• Fearless Forcasters: College edition • Dothan Eagle
College games coming this weekend. 

• Arizona playmaker considering UA • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
The Alabama coaching staff has shown no hesitation when it comes to pursuing top prospects, even if it means going across the country to Tucson, Arizona, where Palo Verde standout Adam Hall shines on Friday nights. The 6-4, 208-pounder has the athleticism to be a physical receiver or an imposing safety.