touchdown alabama magazine - tennessee 2009
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Touchdown Alabama Magazine - Tennessee 2009TRANSCRIPT
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Please Enclose your check for $21.00 with this card.The Bryant Museum is seeking
information and photos for an upcoming book on the Tide’s World War II veterans. Information is needed on WWII-era military service of former Alabama football players.
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In This Issue
M U L T I M E D I A
All content is the property of Touchdown Alabama Magazine. Touchdown Alabama Magazine reserves all rights to content in both the print and online (www.touchdownalabama.net) versions of the publication. No image or text may be reproduced without written consent from Touchdown Alabama Magazine.
8 Pregame Preview
10 Rosters
13 Larry’s Lowdown
14 Prothro is Back!
18 Opponents
20 Recruiting
22 Trent Richardson
25 Dennis Homan
26 SEC News
31 Bama Fans
OctOber 24, 2009 | VOlume 2, Issue 9
StaffPresident/Publisher Bennie Bice
Editor-in-Chief Mike Lacy
Managing Editor Jessica Temple
Photography BDL Bryant Museum Matt Gaston Mark Lent UA Media Relations UTSports.com Creative Director Jenifer McCormickGraphic Design Cassandra Johnson Tramayne Wright Jessie Landon Chief Information Officer Brian LaShombWebsite Designer Carey Landon
Reporter Angel Hufham
Producer Robert Hill
Public Relations Eric Hudson Katlyn Clark Drew Franklin Christopher Wilson
Advertising Director Herb NeuAdvertising Sales Ron Bush Doug Cate Leslie Housley Alex Schroyer
Accounting Department Danny Glynn
Contributing Writers Larry Burton Troy Farsoun Jennifer Gorham Anthony Johnson Amanda Kelly Brad Lake Lauren Moranor Mike Parker
Next Issue
• Marcell Dareus
• Catching Up with Jack
Smalley
• The Rose Bowl
Web Content
• Post-Game Interviews
• Game Footage
• Press Conferences from Nick Saban
• More From Larry Burton
Weekly Radio Show
• Coming Soon!
6 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009
SubScribe Today!www.touchdownalabama.net
Hello, Touchdown Alabama Fans!
What an exciting week for the Crimson Tide! We are more than halfway through the season and our perfect record is still intact. We still have a few challenges to face, but with a No.1 ranking in the AP Poll, we are definitely moving in the right direction!
We hoped you enjoyed our special expanded Homecoming edition last week. If you did, write to us and let us know! If you didn’t, please let us know why not; we are always open to your feedback!
We also invite you to visit our website for the latest updates on UA football. Troy Farsoun recaps the game for you each Sunday morning and gets you up to speed on the upcoming opponent beginning on Wednesday. Our bloggers fill in everything in between, so you can get your
fill of the Crimson Tide even during the bye next week. While you’re there, sign up for our Fan Forum and voice your own opinion. Last week, one fan won a year-long subscription, an autographed football and a $50 gift card by guessing the score of the Homecoming game, so it pays to check us out online! See you in two weeks! Roll Tide!
Send Letters to:PO BOX 3251TUSCALOOSA AL [email protected]: [email protected]
Letter from the Editor
ON THE COVEREryk Anders #32, Marcell Dareus #57 and Lorenzo Washington #97 lift Javier Arenas #28 in celebration at the North Texas game. The group has plenty to celebrate this week. The Tide’s homecoming win over the Gamecocks, coupled with top-ranked Florida’s close call against Arkansas, propelled Alabama to No.1 this week in the AP Poll. Washington, a senior defensive lineman, sacked South Carolina’s Stephen Garcia late in the third quarter. For the latest AP and BCS polls, see page 27. Photography by Mark Lent.
MISSION STATEMENT“Touchdown Alabama Magazine was created to bring Alabama football fans the coverage of their team that they crave and expect, as well as to bring them closer to the action on the field. The University of Alabama has a long college football history, rich with tradition. Each season has added more dynamic players and colorful stories to the Alabama family. It is only fitting that a program with 12 National Championships should have a weekly magazine dedicated to conveying the excitement of the game to its devoted fans. Touchdown Alabama Magazine strives to be the most up-to-date, relevant and exciting magazine covering University of Alabama football. Furthermore, we guarantee in-depth articles, exclusive interviews and quality content surrounding the Crimson Tide. We will never forget who we generate this magazine for...you, the fan. God bless.”
INDEX
touchdownalabama.net | 7
After a sloppy game against South Carolina filled with penalties and turnovers, Alabama must play disciplined football against a Tennessee team coming off of a bye week. In Tennessee’s last game they manhandled Georgia 45-19 and are looking to play spoiler. With all that said, Alabama should still win because of talent, momentum and home field advantage.
>>Winner: AlabamaBennie Bice - Publisher
Tennessee, coming off a bye week, will be ready, but the Crimson Tide is on a roll! Tennessee’s defense is not anywhere near the caliber of Alabama’s. Julio Jones and Mike McCoy will get some considerable touches this week. Also, look for McElroy to bounce back with a big game.
>>Winner: Alabama Mike Lacy - Editor-in-Chief
Lane Kiffin had Tennessee looking good against Georgia, but this isn’t Georgia’s defense and the Tide will show them the difference between Georgia’s and Alabama’s offense as well.
>>Winner: AlabamaLarry Burton
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Trim: 7.5 x 5Bleed: noneLive: 7.25 x 4.75
Closing Date: 10.5.9QC: RR
Pub: Touchdown Alabama
Pre-Game Preview
Pre-Game Preview
touchdownalabama.net | 9PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT GASTON
Lauren Moranor
It may not be the third Saturday in October, but that takes nothing away from what is a very heated rivalry between two SEC teams. A game that traditionally holds a lot of intensity
and passion, this year proves to be nothing different. The Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide will square off for the 92nd meeting between the two teams. The Tide leads the series 46-38 and will be trying to make that 47 this week. Alabama looks to continue on the road to a perfect season and a national championship. Coming off a win against South Carolina, the Tide hopes to be 8-0 after Saturday’s game.
Lane Kiffin’s Tennessee Volunteers are coming off a bye weekend after having a big win against University of Georgia. The Vols are going to come into Alabama and try to capitalize off of that win. Before the game against Georgia, the Vols were struggling to keep above water. The team ranks sixth in total offense in the SEC, averaging 392 yards a game. In the Georgia win, the team had 472 total offensive yards alone. A big reason for that was senior quarterback Jonathan Crompton, who found a rhythm and threw for 310 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. Crompton, highly recruited out of high school, has struggled to find consistency this season. He ranks seventh in the SEC in pass efficiency. Tennessee will look to try to run the ball more due to Crompton’s lack of consistency and the fact that the Vols have not had a receiver truly step up. They may try to get the ball to senior running back Montario Hardesty,
who rushed for 101 yards against UGA. Alabama’s Mark Ingram is looking to continue
the Heisman talk with another big rushing game. Ingram rushed for 246 yards against South Carolina. With Tennessee’s good run defense, quarterback Greg McElroy will be forced to take the ball to the air. The offensive line will have to work hard to protect McElroy from a strong Tennessee secondary.
This game could end up being a battle of defense. Alabama ranks second in rush defense in the SEC, but Tennessee is right behind them, ranking third. Each team is stocked with defensive play makers. In his first season with the Vols, defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin is looked at as just as strong a defensive mind as Nick Saban. He will need strong coverage to try to stop the dominant Alabama run game. Tennessee will rely heavily on their Heisman hopeful, junior defensive back Eric Berry. A potential NFL star, Berry could go second in the draft, according the ESPN experts. He has 50 tackles total on the season. He is the true key to the Tennessee defense. Alabama’s Rolando McClain, now a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, will try and take advantage of Tennessee’s pass game and create as many turn-overs as possible.
The game will be another chapter in what has been a very colorful rivalry in the SEC. It is sure to be played with a lot passion. Both teams will certainly be leaving it all on the field with hopes of gaining bragging rights for the year.
Defensive battle brings Tennessee to Tuscaloosa
Tennessee
Pre-Game Preview
10
82 Earl Alexander WR Jr. 6-4 212 Phenix City, AL
32 Eryk Anders LB Sr. 6-2 235 San Antonio, TX
28 Javier Arenas DB Sr. 5-9 195 Tampa, FL
49 Jonathan Atchison LB Fr. 6-2 220 Atlanta, GA
4 Mark Barron DB So. 6-2 214 Mobile, AL
7 Kenny Bell WR Fr. 6- 1 160 Rayville, LA
44 Alex Benson LB Sr. 6- 1 225 Trussville, AL
86 Undra Billingsley TE Fr. 6-2 276 Birmingham, AL
93 Chris Bonds DL Fr. 6-4 280 Columbia, SC
67 John Michael Boswell OL So. 6-5 306 Northport, AL
88 Michael Bowman WR Fr. 6-4 210 Rossville, GA
87 Drew Bullard LB Jr 6-3 238 Florence, AL
77 James Carpenter OL Jr. 6-5 300 Augusta, GA
99 Josh Chapman DL So. 6-1 313 Hoover, AL
62 Terrence Cody DL Sr. 6-5 354 Ft. Myers, FL
57 Marcell Dareus DL So. 6-4 296 Huffman, AL
16 Thomas Darrah QB So. 6-5 227 Newnan, GA
79 Drew Davis OL Sr. 6-7 306 Evergreen, AL
96 Luther Davis DL Jr. 6-3 275 West Monroe, LA
95 Brandon Deaderick DL Sr. 6-4 306 Elizabethtown, KY
51 Michael DeJohn LB Jr. 6- 1 241 Hoover, AL
85 Preston Dial TE Jr. 6-3 233 Mobile, AL
40 DeMarcus DuBose LB So. 6-1 232 Montgomery, AL
13 Rob Ezell WR Jr. 5-10 170 Athens, AL
7 P.J. Fitzgerald P Sr. 5-11 204 Coral Springs, FL
76 D.J. Fluker OL Fr. 6-6 340 Foley, AL
58 Nick Gentry DL So. 6-1 264 Prattville, AL
11 Brandon Gibson WR So. 6-2 192 Mobile, AL
6 Demetrius Goode RB So. 5-9 191 LaGrange, GA
29 Terry Grant RB Jr. 5-10 190 Lumberton, MS
33 Hampton Gray DB Sr. 6- 2 196 Northport, AL
23 Robby Green DB So. 6-0 181 New Orleans, LA
34 Jeramie Griffin RB So. 6-2 224 Batesville, MS
15 Darius Hanks WR So. 6-0 184 Norcross, GA
54 Glenn Harbin DL Fr. 6-5 257 Mobile, AL
5 Jerrell Harris LB So. 6-3 227 Gadsden, AL
30 Dont’a Hightower LB So. 6-4 255 Lewisburg, TN
40 Baron Huber RB/TE Sr. 6-4 263 Knoxville, TN
22 Mark Ingram RB So. 5-10 212 Flint, MI
3 Kareem Jackson DB Jr. 6-0 193 Macon, GA
2 Star Jackson QB Fr. 6-3 206 Lake Worth, FL
24 Marquis Johnson DB Sr. 5-11 191 Sarasota, FL
78 Mike Johnson OL Sr. 6-5 303 Pensacola, FL
35 Nico Johnson LB Fr. 6-3 225 Andalusia, AL
75 Barrett Jones OL R-Fr. 6-4 289 Memphis, TN
8 Julio Jones WR So. 6-4 211 Foley, AL
26 Phelon Jones DB So. 5-11 195 Mobile, AL
36 Chris Jordan LB So. 6-3 230 Brentwood, TN
81 Kendall Kelly WR Fr. 6-3 216 Gadsden, AL
20 Tyrone King DB Sr. 5-11 203 Birmingham, AL
21 Dre Kirkpatrick DB Fr. 6-3 185 Gadsden, AL
42 Eddie Lacy RB Fr. 6-0 210 Geismar, LA
37 Robert Lester DB Fr. 6-2 207 Foley, AL
72 Tyler Love OL R-Fr. 6-6 303 Mountain Brook, AL
33 Mike Marrow RB-HB Fr. 6-2 240 Holland, OH
4 Marquis Maze WR So. 5-10 179 Birmingham, AL
10 A.J. McCarron QB Fr. 6-4 190 Mobile, AL
25 Rolando McClain LB Jr. 6-4 255 Decatur, AL
80 Mike McCoy WR Sr. 6-3 215 Rankin, MS
52 Alfred McCullough OL So. 6-2 305 Athens, AL
12 Greg McElroy QB Jr. 6-3 220 Southlake, TX
56 William Ming DL Fr. 6-3 260 Athens, AL
59 Brandon Moore DL Fr. 6-5 310 Montgomery, AL
66 Brian Motley OL Jr. 6-3 291 Autaugaville, AL
64 Kerry Murphy DL Fr. 6-4 323 Hoover, AL
46 Wesley Neighbors DB So. 6-1 210 Huntsville, AL
83 Kevin Norwood WR Fr. 6-2 180 D’lberville, MS
18 Morgan Ogilvie QB So. 6-0 195 Mountain Brook, AL
2 Tana Patrick LB Fr. 6-3 235 Bridgeport, AL
84 Colin Peek TE Sr. 6-6 255 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
39 Kyle Pennington DB Jr. 5-11 188 Chatom, AL
68 Taylor Pharr OL Jr. 6-6 290 Irondale, AL
54 Russell Rains OL Fr. 6-2 260 Satsuma, AL
13 Cory Reamer LB Sr. 6-4 234 Hoover, AL
3 Trent Richardson RB Fr. 5-11 220 Pensacola, FL
8 Chris Rogers DB Sr. 6-0 190 Lakeland, FL
74 David Ross OL Jr. 6-3 299 Homewood, AL
1 B.J. Scott DB So. 5-11 196 Prichard, AL
46 Chris Scott WR Sr. 5-11 170 Birmingham, AL
50 Brian Selman SNP Sr. 6-0 210 Vestavia Hills, AL
94 Darrington Sentimore DL Fr. 6-3 280 Norco, LA
26 Ali Sharrief DB Sr. 5-9 200 Stevenson, AL
94 Jeremy Shelley PK Fr. 5-10 170 Raleigh, N.C.
48 Travis Sikes WR Jr. 6-3 198 Nashville, TN
71 Allen Skelton OL So. 6-1 265 Coker, AL
17 Brad Smelley TE So. 6-3 233 Tuscaloosa, AL
92 Damion Square DL Fr. 6-3 272 Houston, TX
61 Anthony Steen OL-DL Fr. 6-3 305 Lambert, MS
47 Ed Stinson LB-DL Fr. 6-4 240 Homestead, FL
90 Milton Talbert DL Jr. 6-4 275 Hattiesburg, MS
99 Leigh Tiffin PK Sr. 6-2 212 Muscle Shoals, AL
51 Carson Tinker ST So. 6-1 220 Murfreesboro, TN
87 Chris Underwood TE So. 6-4 231 Birmingham, AL
5 Roy Upchurch RB Sr. 6-0 205 Tallahassee, FL
41 Courtney Upshaw LB So. 6-2 249 Eufaula, AL
73 William Vlachos OL Jr. 6-1 294 Birmingham, AL
65 Chance Warmack OL Fr. 6-3 301 Atlanta, GA
97 Lorenzo Washington DL Sr. 6-5 290 Logansville, GA
91 Alex Watkins LB So. 6-3 225 Brownsville, TN
55 Chavis Williams LB Jr. 6-4 223 Dora, AL
60 David Williams OL Fr. 6-3 272 Duncanville, AL
89 Michael Williams TE Fr. 6-6 266 Reform, AL
9 Nick Williams WR Fr. 5-10 165 Fort Lauderdale, FL
27 Justin Woodall DB Sr. 6-2 221 Oxford, MS
18 Rod Woodson DB Fr. 5-11 200 Olive Branch, MS
NO NAME POS CL HT WT HOMETOWN NO NAME POS CL HT WT HOMETOWN
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6 Anthony Anderson DB 6-1 179 So. Knoxville
60 Carson Anderson C 6-2 267 Fr. Florence, Ala.
47 Jerod Askew LB 6-1 230 Fr. Chesapeake, Va.
39 Ben Bartholomew TE 6-2 250 So. Nashville
14 Eric Berry DB 5-11 203 Jr. Fairburn, Ga.
81 Josh Bigney WR 6-4 180 Fr. Knoxville
86 Willie Bohannon DE 6-2 230 Fr. Mobile, Ala.
67 Minor Bowens OL 6-3 293 Jr. Memphis
27 Nick Branum DB 6-0 185 Fr. Knoxville
54 William Brimfield OT 6-5 346 So. Norway, S.C.
11 Bryce Brown RB 6-0 215 Fr. Wichita, Kan.
94 Wes Brown DT 6-4 257 Sr. Athens, Ala.
85 Todd Campbell WR 6-0 186 So. Nashville
9 Bram Cannon QB/H 6-2 195 Sr. Memphis
56 JR Carr LS 5-11 215 Fr. Torrance, Calif.
45 Kevin Cooper FB 6-0 247 Jr. Chattanooga
80 Jeff Cottam TE 6-8 260 Sr. Germantown
20 Geoff Courtney WR/H 6-1 180 Jr. Knoxville
53 Morgan Cox DS 6-4 226 Sr. Collierville
8 Jonathan Crompton QB 6-4 228 Sr. Waynesville, N.C.
96 Chad Cunningham P/PK 6-3 198 Jr. Dawsonville, Ga.
Albert Davies DB 5-10 200 Jr. Charlotte, N.C.
19 Chris Donald LB 6-1 224 So. Huntingdon
78 Aaron Douglas OT 6-6 282 Fr. Maryville
23 Sam Edgmon FB 6-1 220 So. Pulaski
20 Mike Edwards DB 5-10 170 Fr. Cleveland, Ohio
38 Cory Eichholtz DB 5-8 180 Fr. Knoxville
25 Art Evans DB 6-1 173 So. Lakeland, Fla.
38 C.J. Fleming DB 5-10 173 So. Richmond, Va.
90 Steven Fowlkes DE 6-4 229 Fr. College Park, Ga.
43 Savion Frazier LB 6-2 221 Jr. Woodbridge, Va.
15 Mike Fromke QB 6-3 195 Fr. Knoxville
6 Derrick Furlow DB 6-1 190 Sr. Atlanta, Ga.
73 Brandon Galyon OL 6-5 310 Fr. Knoxville
24 Eric Gordon DB 5-10 187 Fr. Nashville
59 Nick Guess DS 6-3 208 So. Knoxville
87 Quintin Hancock WR 6-3 207 Sr. St. Augustine, Fla.
2 Montario Hardesty RB 6-0 215 Sr. New Bern, N.C.
22 David Harrington P 6-3 185 Jr. Marina, Calif.
64 Jonny Harrison OL 6-2 235 Sr. Vienna, Va.
44 Josh Hawkins LB 6-1 223 So. Loudon
25 Steven Hensley WR 5-10 185 Sr. Coalfield
76 Daniel Hood OL 6-5 255 Fr. Knoxville
93 Montori Hughes DT 6-4 312 Fr. Murfreesboro
12 Ethan Ingham PK 6-0 195 Fr. Portland
15 Janzen Jackson DB 6-0 180 Fr. Lake Charles, La.
95 Arthur Jeffery DL 6-4 285 Fr. Sarasota, Fla.
Grant Jessen LB 6-0 210 Fr. Cordova
40 Austin Johnson FB 6-2 234 So. Hickory, N.C.
31 Marsalous Johnson DB 5-9 184 Sr. Smyrna
4 Gerald Jones WR 6-0 199 Jr. Oklahoma City, Okla.
42 Charles Karlosky DL 6-3 220 Jr. Cookeville
48 Greg King LB 6-3 205 Fr. Memphis
19 Nick Lamaison QB 6-1 210 So. Walnut, Calif.
34 Herman Lathers LB 6-1 213 Fr. Baton Rouge, La.
90 Ben Lehning TE 6-0 230 So. Nashville
26 Daniel Lincoln PK 6-0 203 Jr. Ocala, Fla.
99 Ben Martin DE 6-3 239 Jr. Cincinnati, Ohio
46 Andre Mathis DT 6-2 280 Sr. Erie, Pa.
65 Jacques McClendon OG 6-3 324 Sr. Cleveland
5 Rico McCoy LB 6-1 220 Sr. Washington, D.C.
50 Josh McNeil C 6-4 280 Sr. Collins, Miss.
37 Nigel Mitchell-Thornton LB 6-0 229 Fr. Stone Mountain, Ga.
6 Denarius Moore WR 6-1 190 Jr. Tatum, Texas
Jon Morrison DE 6-2 255 So. Knoxville
3 Darren Myles Jr. S 6-2 190 Fr. Atlanta, Ga.
97 Chase Nelson DT 6-4 292 Jr. Tulsa, Okla.
35 Robert Nelson LB 6-0 205 Fr. Stone Mountain, Ga.
26 Michael Odell WR 6-0 211 So. Kodiak, Alaska
27 David Oku RB 5-10 186 Fr. Midwest City, Okla.
12 Nyshier Oliver DB 5-10 180 Fr. Jersey City, NJ
72 Chase Phillips OL 6-3 286 Fr. Knoxville
28 Tauren Poole RB 5-10 203 So. Toccoa, Ga.
77 Cody Pope OG 6-6 288 So. Julian, Calif.
29 Stephaun Raines DB 5-10 179 So. Dalton, Ga.
56 Nick Reveiz LB 5-10 220 Jr. Farragut
45 Shane Reveiz LB 5-11 210 So. Farragut
63 Kevin Revis OL 6-4 265 Fr. Evansville
Chip Rhome P 6-3 200 So. Christiana
51 Vladimir Richard OL 6-4 300 Sr. Sunrise, Fla.
7 Nu’Keese Richardson WR 5-10 165 Fr. Pahokee, Fla.
41 Dennis Rogan DB 5-10 178 Jr. Knoxville
21 Austin Rogers WR 6-2 190 Sr. Nashville
83 Zach Rogers WR 6-2 170 Fr. Nashville
75 JerQuari Schofield OL 6-6 315 Fr. Aiken, S.C.
79 Chris Scott OT 6-5 346 Sr. Riverdale, Ga.
74 Jarrod Shaw OG 6-4 332 Jr. Lafayette, La.
17 Nick Stephens QB 6-4 227 Jr. Flower Mound, Tx.
88 Luke Stocker TE 6-6 240 Jr. Berea, Ky.
40 Jake Storey LB 5-11 218 So. Titusville, Fla.
66 Cody Sullins C 6-1 260 Sr. Cottontown
69 Cory Sullins OL 6-1 270 Sr. Cottontown
98 Rae Sykes DE 6-2 255 So. Alcoa
10 Marsalis Teague WR 5-10 180 Fr. Paris
71 Dallas Thomas OT 6-5 268 Fr. Baton Rouge, La.
44 Sam Thomas P 6-6 195 Fr. Memphis
52 Victor Thomas DT 6-4 286 Jr. Olive Branch, Miss.
42 LaMarcus Thompson LB 6-1 221 Jr. Lithonia, Ga.
9 Daryl Vereen LB 6-0 213 So. Charlotte, N.C.
13 Brent Vinson DB 6-0 201 Jr. Hampton, Va.
23 Prentiss Waggner DB 6-2 177 Fr. Clinton, La.
84 Chris Walker DE 6-3 232 Jr. Memphis
58 Marlon Walls DL 6-2 225 Fr. Olive Branch, Miss.
86 Matt Wegzyn TE 6-3 230 Fr. Northville, Mich.
29 Sean White RB 5-5 180 Sr. Denver, Colo.
22 Rod Wilks DB 6-0 220 Fr. Smyrna
55 Dan Williams DT 6-3 327 Sr. Memphis
57 Gerald Williams DE 6-4 248 Jr. Lauderdale Lakes, Fla.
33 Toney Williams TB 6-0 218 Fr. Alpharetta, Ga.
18 Tyler Wolf DB 6-0 200 Jr. Cookeville
NO NAME POS HT WT CL HOMETOWN NO NAME POS HT WT CL HOMETOWN
Amanda Kelly
Although he hasn’t played anything besides punter since high school, P.J. Fiztgerald has been able to show off some of his
other skills this year in two successful fake plays, a change from previous seasons.
“Up to this year I was 0-4 or something on fakes or something, and this year I’m two for two so hopefully I can keep the streak going,” Fitzgerald said.
The Alabama senior started his football career playing quarterback, receiver and punter in his hometown of Lakeland, Fla. He realized after being invited to an all-star game after his senior year of high school that he would only be able to play football at the collegiate level as a punter, because he lacked the size or speed to play another position. Although he spent time refining his punting skills before college, Fitzgerald never completely lost his quarterback mentality.
“I worked with a guy and he got my name out there and I came out as a punter, solely a punter,” Fitzgerald said. “Which is weird because I still have that quarterback mentality, like I’ve got to do something, but I’m only out there for one play every drive.”
He may only see action once every drive, but Fitzgerald has made an impact in Alabama special teams play. Having never missed a start since he joined the Crimson Tide football team in 2006, Fitzgerald is averaging 160 yards a game, with 8,212 total career yards.
His numbers have improved over the years, but not because Fitzgerald spends practice punting balls for hours. He works hard, but said the drills can be boring and repetitive.
“I used to kick a lot when I was younger, but I’ve learned that really doesn’t help,” Fitzgerald said. “While everybody’s doing individual drills or whatever they do, I’m outside or inside doing drop drills or steps, or little stuff that people don’t think of.”
Fitzgerald also said the team does work on fake plays during practice, so that they are always prepared in case Saban calls for one.
“We have a fake for everything for every game,” Fitzgerald said. “Last year we didn’t have to use it until Florida, and this year I think Coach just wants to make sure that other teams are aware that we can do what we want.”
Alabama made it very clear they could do what they wanted when they ran a fake punt against Ole Miss. Fitzgerald completed a seven yard pass, which left him trailing Ole Miss Quarterback Jevan Snead by only a few passing yards at the end of the first half. Fitzgerald said he did not know what the game statistics were and that the fake play could have not been so successful.
“I knew our defense was doing awesome but I didn’t know that we were that close,” he said. “We called for it, and I thought we called it off, so I didn’t have my mind right for it, but we got it off and we got a first down.”
The fake field goal attempt against Kentucky was almost derailed as well, but the Tide’s attempt was successful despite a penalty.
“I didn’t know what to do when we got that delay of game,” Fitzgerald said. “I saw Coach Saban say keep going so I was like ‘alright.’ I called the fake, and we did it, and obviously I had some adrenaline going so I broke some tackles and got going a little faster. We were all excited after the play. We were jumping up. It was fun”
Fitzgerald said he enjoys the fake plays because he gets to see a little more action than he normally would punting the ball.
“Making plays out on the field, there’s nothing like it.,” he said. “On my fake field goal run I got up and I was pumped because I haven’t done that in five years. And then at Ole Miss I threw the ball.”
The season is half over and although Fitzgerald is focused and finishing strong, the senior can’t help but look ahead. He would like to play on Sunday, and will do his best to make that goal happen.
“I can only do what I can,” he said. “If NFL teams like that and they see something in me and give me a shot.”
Player Spotlight
P.J. Fitzgerald
12 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009 PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT GASTON
LOWDOWN
Larry’s
LOWDOWNThis Alabama Football Team is a Machine
Larry Burton
touchdownalabama.net | 13
Larry Burton
Vince Lombardi was once asked why his teams did better than other teams. His answer was simple: “We do the little things that nobody else does, or hardly notices.”
Well, one Ole Miss fan, nicknamed “Reb73” on a fan forum, noticed why Alabama seems to be a lot better than other teams. He saw something small, and being a sports enthusiast, he noticed.
This is how he described the Alabama players doing something as simple as getting off the bus:
“When Alabama arrived yesterday, they looked like cloned, disciplined, suited warriors. Their whole demeanor is one of order and discipline. They were wearing coats and ties (like Alabama did years ago) and they looked like individual parts of a machine. There was no ‘individuality’ displayed at all. Just a body. A body of soldiers. It was really impressive.”
That is Alabama this year -- one machine with many fail-safes. Stop one part of it and the others will simply compensate to make up the difference.
It’s not about individual glory. I’ve interviewed players who only want to reference the work of others and the team as a whole and downplay any individual effort.
I heard Rolando McClain tell me a tackle he made in the backfield was not his accomplishment, but Terrence Cody occupying two offensive linemen and Eric Anders putting pressure on the other side, that chased the back to him to give him the easy shot.
“When everybody does their job, some-times it makes just one of us look good,” McClain told me, “but if you were really looking, you’d see it was a team effort.”
I saw running back Mark Ingram take in a pass and go the distance, and then not jog, but run back up the field to hug a receiver who made the key block that made it possible. No end zone dance for him. He simply wanted to thank the real hero that never got a stat for it.
I heard quarterback Greg McElroy tell reporters, after setting an Alabama record 14 straight consecutive passes, that it was not his accomplishment.
“As open as those receivers were, it would have been hard not to complete those passes,” he said, “We have some excellent receivers here that make it easy to do your job.”
Each of the players I just referenced was talking about a team doing their job, not playing a game. The members of this team look at it just that way. When they put their helmets on, it’s time to go to work.
The company they work for strives for excellence and they know that the entire team is only as strong as its weakest link. Each man takes pride in doing his job so the entire unit succeeds, and to prove there is no weak link in this chain.
This is not something new that Nick Saban came up with for this team. These are the virtues of Alabama that just haven’t been exercised as much in some of the past few years here.
They are cornerstones of every successful endeavor that any organization should seek to accomplish.
This is Alabama football in its purest form -- the team with all the championships and no Heisman champions. It’s team ball, or if you want to call it that, Bama ball.
As long as this team has this mindset, there is nothing for opponents to do but worry. In fact, worry a lot.
14 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009
Exclusive
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAYTON COOK
Exclusive
Tyrone Prothro, whose career was cut short after suffering two fractures in his tibia and fibula during the Alabama versus Florida matchup of 2005, has made his comeback into football.
Prothro has recently become involved with the Birmingham Wildfire, a professional minor league football team. Prothro is the punt return and wide receiver coach for the team, and has big plans for his squad.
Prothro is enjoying his new position. “Just to be out here, feeling like I have a lot left in me, to be able to coach guys, teach them and instill in them what I had in me is different than playing,” he said. “But I feel like I am competing through them. It still gives me that edge, that satisfaction of being able to compete.”
As most Alabama football fans know, Prothro’s ability on the football field was unmatched by anyone in the country when it came to work ethic and creative athleticism, and he plans on bringing these talents to the Wildfire’s strategic sideline.
“He has a high level of hard working charisma and is a natural leader,” Michael Shortt, Prothro’s high school football coach at Heflin High school, said. “When he played he picked up on things very fast. He would be able to predict things and capitalize on them and I think he could bring that into the coaching world. I would hire him.”
One thing about Prothro that is
Brad Lake
Prothro Back in the Ballgame
What do you get when you combine a love of art with a passion of Alabama football? Greg Gamble is the answer.
Artist Greg Gamble has been a fan of Alabama football since he was a kid, and he decided to put his talent as an artist together with his love of the game. Now his paintings hang throughout Tuscaloosa, everywhere from restaurants to dentist offices, and beyond.
Gamble’s football paintings have been available since 1993, and have been sought-after by sports enthusiasts ever since. He concentrates on Alabama football, but he has paintings from every SEC team, as well as some out-of-confer-ence, and even a few NFL, teams.
One thing that stands out about Gamble’s paintings is the minute details. He puts great effort into his work to make the paintings look as real as the actual event depicted. “The Catch” is his depic-tion of Tyrone Prothro’s famous around-the-opponent catch against Southern Miss. It is just one example of Gamble’s realistic artistry.
Gamble, his wife Alison and their two children, Hilary and Eric, live happily as devout Christians in Huntsville, Ala., so he is never too far away from the Crimson Tide. He is truly a talented artist in his field of sports paintings. For more information, please visit GregGambleproductions.com.
Artist Depicts the Reality of the Game
Continued on page 19
Jennifer Gorham
Montario Hardesty proudly wears the number 2 jersey for the Tennessee Volunteers. He is a senior tailback and was ranked second on the team in 2008. He led
the Volunteers last season with six rushing touchdowns. Recently during their game against the Georgia Bulldogs, Hardesty added 39 yards to his 672-yard total so far this season. He was also named the player of the game against Ohio on Sept. 26, when he ran 20 times for 140 yards and a touchdown. He also caught two passes for 29 yards.
When asked if there was anyone he patterned in his running style, he noted Walter Payton, according to Espn.com.
“I grew up a big Walter Payton fan,” he said. “He ran every play the same way, with everything he had. That’s the way I want to run, giving my all every play. That’s the way I learned to play this game and the way I love to play this game.”
Hardesty has 94 receiving yards and on the rushing side he has 125 carries for 672 yards and six touchdowns. According to Espn.com, Hardesty is projected to top 1,344 yards this season. His best game thus far came against Western Kentucky, where he recorded 160 yards and a touchdown. He has made an appearance in every game this season.
Number 14, Eric Berry, is the Tennessee Volunteer’s defensive back. He is also an All-American candidate. Berry has started every game since he arrived at the
University of Tennessee in 2007. He was the only player in 2008 to make interceptions in seven different games. He is ranked third in the SEC in tackles and is the only defensive back in the top 10.
He says that everyone in the SEC is the Vols’ competition, but he has a couple of teams singled out.
“Everyone in the SEC is our rival, but just seeing how we haven’t beat Florida since I’ve been here, or Alabama, I would say both of those are pretty big rivals,” Berry said. “We look forward to every SEC game, but those are two of the biggest ones.”
Berry has many accomplishments under his belt. He was voted the 2008 SEC Defensive Player of the Year and the 2008 All-SEC winner by both the Coaches and Associated Press. He was the 2008 All-America NCAA Unanimous award winner, given by the AFCA, Sporting News, AP, FWAA and Walter Camp. He was also recognized as the 2008 Tennessee Sports Writers Player of the Year.
In 2007 he also earned several awards, including the 2007 SEC Defensive Freshman of the Year by Sporting News and 2007 Freshman All-SEC by Coaches, Rivals.com and Sporting News.
Berry has a history against the Crimson Tide, with one career reception for three yards and two career kickoff returns for 32 yards in 2008.
Opponents
18 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October , 2009 PHOTOGRAPHY BY UTSPORTS.COM
Other SideViews From The
Opponents
Montario Hardesty
Eric Berry
#2
#14
different from most other coaches is his age. He is only 25 years old, and therefore unusually close in age to most of his players. Some people might see his youth as a disadvantage, but Prothro believes otherwise.
“[My age] helps out because I think younger people can understand me better,” Prothro said. “I feel like I can relate to my players and they can relate to me.”
Prothro’s team finished their 2009 season 9-1. Prothro feels that his team is very talented and eager to get out on the field every day.
“We are doing really well, we have a lot of talent,” Prothro said. “I don’t think anybody realizes how much talent we have in the state of Alabama. It is just good to have some of the best players that have played football since they were younger. You have some that didn’t get the chance to play in college and some that went to college and didn’t get to play in the pros. Just having them all combined on one team, out here, playing for that one shot that someone might see them, makes it worth it for me. It makes the team eager to be out here and I definitely think it shows on the field.”
“The most important thing Tyrone has is his willing-ness to learn, and that he can’t stand to lose,” Shortt said. “He knows how to handle losing, but he doesn’t like it. I think you will see him back at Alabama one day. He would be a great recruiter.”
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Recruiting
Mike Parker
Chad Lindsay Offensive Lineman 6’3” 310 lbsThis past week, Chad Lindsay’s The Woodlands High School in The Woodlands, Tx., remained undefeated due, in part, to Lindsay’s 18 pancake blocks. Dialing up Andre Smith’s blocking numbers, Lindsay has established himself as one of the premier offensive lineman in the country. During the recruiting process, Lindsay visited just about every SEC school, yet, in the end, he saw, as many other recruits have, that Alabama offers the best chance to win a national championship and to go to the next level. Joe Pendry must be licking his chops for Lindsay to get on campus because, with the right coaching, fundamentals, footwork and conditioning program, the sky is the limit for this outstanding player.
Keiwone Malone Wide Receiver 6’1” 165 lbs. 40 in 4.4A native of Memphis, Tenn., Keiwone Malone pulled his Mitchell High School to victory this past week when he made a 36-yard reception and kicked a 27-yard field goal. Committed to Alabama for quite some time, Malone is the exact type of player that Alabama’s offense has been lacking: one with sheer explosive speed, coupled with change-of-direction skills. Once he is at Alabama, Malone, whose soft hands and lightning speed set him apart, will need some help from wide receiver coach Curt Cignetti in improving his route running and his ability to fight off being jammed at the line. It will be critical for Malone to add weight to his 165 lb. frame so he will not be slowed down by physical defenders. Malone is one to pay attention to because he is flirting with other schools. However, so far, Malone has remained committed to playing for the Crimson Tide.
Wilson Love Defensive End 6’4” 240 lbsWhen Wilson Love’s Mountain Brook High School in Birmingham, Ala., lost 30-0 this past week to a very strong Hoover High School, Love was not playing. The younger brother of former 5-star Tyler Love, Wilson differs in his playing style from his big brother. While Tyler’s future is on the offensive line, Wilson Love plays on the defensive line. The fact that Love plays with a mean streak makes him an extremely desirable player for Bo Davis’s defensive line. It has yet to be determined if Love will play defensive end or defensive tackle; though much depends on how much weight Love gains, your best bet would be defensive end.
De Marcus Milliner Defensive Back 6’1” 180 lbs. 40 in 4.3Although he had a 60-yard run on a fake punt as well as eight tackles, DeMarcus Milliner could not save his Stanhope Elmore High School in Millbrook, Ala., from losing a close one this past week against powerhouse Prattville High. Milliner is the No.1 rated cornerback in the country, as well as the No.1 player in the state. He is the prize recruit of this class so far. At 6’1”, and already 180 lbs., Milliner has an absolutely perfect frame to play multiple positions in the secondary. However, his specialty is playing lockdown corner. If Milliner is secured for Alabama, this would make it two years in a row in which Nick Saban has landed the No.1 cornerback in the country. Saban’s hands-on coaching method in practice is extremely hard for a cornerback to turn down. Make no mistake: one could easily put Milliner at running back, flanker or in the slot to be an offensive threat. This kid has first-round NFL potential written all over him, and, with Alabama’s strength and conditioning program and Saban’s coaching touch, it is hard not to imagine an extremely successful career for Milliner. Saban has landed another big fish in securing him for Alabama.
The number of stars assigned to each player indicates the level pro scouts have assigned to the player after evaluating him. Out of five possible stars, the more stars you are receive, the higher your rating. Information courtesy of Rivals.com.
Crimson Tide Recruiting CommitsPlayer Pos Stars Ht Wt 40 RR Hometown Deion Belue DB 6-0 175 4.51 5.6 Tuscumbia, ALDevonta Bolton LB 6-4 230 - 5.8 Scooba, MSRonald Carswell WR 6-0 180 4.5 5.7 Macon, GACade Foster K 6-1 215 - 5.4 Southlake, TXJalston Fowler RB 6-0 240 4.8 5.8 Prichard, ALCorey Grant RB 5-10 186 4.4 5.8 Opelika, ALAlfy Hill DE 6-4 222 4.59 5.9 Shallotte, NCHarrison Jones TE 6-4 230 4.8 5.7 Memphis, TNBrandon Lewis DT 6-3 275 - 5.7 Scooba, MSChad Lindsay OL 6-3 307 5.4 5.6 The Woodlands, TXWilson Love DE 6-4 235 4.8 5.6 Birmingham, ALKeiwone Malone WR 6-1 165 4.4 5.8 Memphis, TNDeMarcus Milliner DB 6-1 180 4.45 6.1 Millbrook, ALNick Perry DB 6-2 195 4.49 5.8 Prattville, ALAustin Shepherd OL 6-4 316 5.5 5.7 Suwanee, GABlake Sims ATH 6-0 180 4.5 5.6 Gainesville, GAPhillip Sims QB 6-2 209 4.8 5.9 Chesapeake, VABrian Vogler TE 6-7 248 4.67 5.8 Columbus, GAJarrick Williams DB 6-2 205 4.6 5.9 Eight Mile, ALJay Williams K 6-4 220 - 5.3 Thomasville, AL
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22 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009
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National Signing Day had already been deemed a resounding success for the Crimson Tide and Alabama fans were already toasting to another top-rated recruiting class.
This all happened before the man regarded as “Mr. 407” signed his letter of intent to play for Nick Saban.
Rated the No. 1 prospect in the ESPN 150 and a five-star gem, 5-foot-10, 225-pound Escambia County High School standout Trent Richardson ended all media speculation that he might recant his previous verbal commitment to the Tide and sign with the already loaded Florida Gators.
With a smile and an impatient crowd waiting, Richardson donned the houndstooth hat in front of a raucous gymnasium and the Crimson Nation rejoiced to another No.1-rated recruiting class.
Richardson, who attended the same high-school as legendary Dallas Cowboy running back Emmitt Smith, held scholarship offers from at least 20 high-profile schools, but verbally committed to the Tide early in the summer of his senior season. He exploded onto the recruiting scene as a senior at Escambia High rushing for 2,090 yards and 25 touchdowns, making YouTube worthy highlight tapes each and every week.
Twice in high school, Richardson rushed for at least 400 yards in a game. Known as the recruit who raced trains, Richardson has not disappointed the Tide faithful in his true freshman campaign. Through six games, Richardson has 61 rushing attempts for 346 yards and four touchdowns, including a remarkable 52-yard run against Arkansas, in which he broke six tackles and ignited Bryant-Denny Stadium.
A little further north, first-year head coach of the Tennessee
Volunteers, Lane Kiffin, promised to turn things around after former head coach Phil Fulmer was ousted after a disap-pointing 2008 season. Kiffin was expected to make quite an impact on the recruiting trail – and he did just that.
The Vols landed another top running back, ranked No. 1 by Rivals.com, Wichita stud Bryce Brown. Brown’s commitment to Tennessee finally ended a saga filled with speculation and accusations.
Brown, the 6-foot-1, 215-pound U.S. Army All-American Bowl MVP, originally gave Miami head coach Randy Shannon a verbal commitment in February, but after a late push by Kiffin and his experienced staff, Brown had a sudden change of heart. After signing his intent to play for the Vols, Brown attributed Kiffin’s attitude, energy and passion as the reasons for his commitment.
While in high school, Brown drew comparisons to legendary NFL running back Barry Sanders, and rightfully so. Brown had a sensational high school career, racking up nearly 2,000 yards rushing as a senior and 29 touchdowns. His first ever rush attempt as a freshman went for 55 yards and a touchdown. It was clear early in his football career that he was destined for stardom. The highly-gifted Brown was wanted by almost every major division 1 program.
Brown has 55 rushing attempts this season, 250 yards and two touchdowns.
Considered to be an every-down back with great size, tremendous speed and bulldozing power, Brown has the essential tools necessary to be a force against SEC defenses.
Together, these two young running backs are changing the course of SEC football. They are on the path to record-breaking seasons and long careers. And they’re just getting started.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY UTSPORTS.COM (L), BDL (R) touchdownalabama.net | 23
24 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009
Traditions
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Tide TraditionsCigars on the thirdSaturday in October
Every SEC team plays one unchanging team from the opposing division annually, creating one permanent east-west match up a year for each team. This is a
scheduling formula that has created rivalries such as the Auburn-Georgia and Florida-LSU games. But none of these matchups seems to hold as much emotion as the rivalry created by the annual Alabama-Tennessee game.
Alabama and Tennessee began playing each other in 1901, with the first game ending in a tie and the fans fighting on the field. Except for one time, the teams have met every year since 1928. That year, for the first time, the game was played on the third Saturday in October. It was played on that day nearly every year until the SEC split into two divisions in 1992. Since then, the game is scheduled for that day as often as possible.
Over the years, both football programs have produced strong teams, adding to the excitement of the game. The winner of the game has often gone on to challenge for the SEC title. For over 50 years, the traditional victory celebra-tion for the winning team has included cigars.
It is rumored that after one Crimson Tide victory in the 1950’s, Alabama head trainer Jim Goostree handed out cigars to the team. Another rumor says it was Bear Bryant who first handed them out. The Volunteers picked up the tradition as well, smoking celebratory cigars when they were victorious. Although both teams continued the tradition for a number of years, it was eventually dropped because of NCAA rules.
Although the players are no longer able to light up and the game is no longer always on the third Saturday, fans on both sides of the rivalry keep their victory cigar close by.
Anthony Johnson
Dr. Staffo InterviewCatching Up
It’s been over forty-five years since Dennis Homan received the phone call from one of the most legendary and revered coaches to ever pace the sidelines.
Homan vividly remembers the grizzled voice on the other line that said, “Dennis, this is Paul W. Bryant, head coach of the University of Alabama. We want you to come play football for us.”
Without hesitation and with almost an obligatory response, Homan replied, “Yes sir.”
“When Coach Bryant called me, that was all I knew to say,” Homan said. “Back in my day, that was like Uncle Sam calling you, and you just didn’t say no. Looking back on it, I’m glad I didn’t.”
Homan, who was a record-setting wide receiver under Bryant, began his career with the Tide in 1964, the same year Alabama collected its seventh national championship. Homan’s sopho-more season in 1965 was just as magical, as the University of Alabama finished the season 9-1-1, and defeated the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Orange Bowl on the way to the school’s eighth national championship.
Homan still today ranks among the top receivers to ever play at the Capstone. He ranks in the top-ten all-time in four receiving categories, including: sixth in receptions in a season (54), third in reception yards (820), second in touchdown receptions (9), and first in touchdown catches in a game (3). Homan said he is somewhat shocked his name is still intact in the record books.
“Julio Jones,” Homan said. “He’s really got it all. Size, speed, hands. If he continues on the pace he is on, he will break all my records. I’m surprised he hasn’t yet.”
After his playing days for the Tide concluded, Homan was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, where he played with another former Tide legend, Lee Roy Jordan. Homan enjoyed a five-year career with the Cowboys. He played in Super Bowl V, but unfortunately, the Cowboys were defeated by the Colts.
Before retiring from football and pursuing his twenty-six year career as a pharmaceutical representative for Abbott Laboratories, Homan did add another championship ring to his collection, after helping lead the Birmingham Americans to a World Football League Championship in 1974.
Homan retired in 2002 to his home in Florence, Ala., where he now spends his days with his wife Charlotte, who he proudly
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYANT MUSEUM touchdownalabama.net | 25
Catching Up WithDennis Homan
proclaimed, “is just as beautiful now as when I met her.” Charlotte was a Corolla Beauty during her days at the Capstone, and she and Homan met during his junior year. The couple of 40 years has two children, Missy and Matt, who both graduated from Alabama.
Homan claims to be the biggest Alabama fan in the world, and he said those who are closest to him know the rules of the house on Alabama Saturdays.
“My wife knows, my kids know and my grandkids know not to bother me when I’m watching Alabama play,” Homan said. “I still take it very seriously. After playing four years for Coach Bryant, my blood bleeds crimson.”
Homan said he has a grandson who is already making a name for himself as potentially the next great Alabama wide receiver.
“I’ve seen him play,” Homan said. “He runs great routes and he has very good hands, especially for a 10 year old.”
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26 | TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA October 24, 2009
SEC NewsSEC NewsBrad Lake
Arkansas @ Ole Miss, 12:30pmOle Miss has been struggling all season. Their QB Jevan
Snead had high expectations from his fans and the sports media during preseason, even receiving some Heisman talk. Since then, Arkansas’ Ryan Mallet has stepped forth into the spotlight and shown that he is one of the most dominant quar-terbacks in the SEC, if not the country. After a crushing loss to No. 1 Florida, losing by only 3 points in the last seconds of the game, the Razorbacks are looking to turn their luck around. In the loss to the Gators, Arkansas’ kicker Alex Tejada missed two crucial field goals late in the game that would have put the Razorbacks ahead. This game will be a QB duel, and whoev-er’s defense decides they want to win will walk away with the victory. Look for Mallet and Snead to both have 150 yard games this Saturday. They both had good game last week, with Mallet throwing for 126 yards against Florida and Snead throwing for 245 yards against UAB.
Kentucky @ LA Monroe, 7:00pmComing off of a big win against Auburn on Saturday,
Kentucky is hoping that the worst part of the season is past them. Since Auburn was Kentucky’s third win of the season, they are now sitting evenly with Louisiana Monroe at 3-3. Both of these teams will be looking to make their season, so far at least, a winning one this Saturday in Lexington. Kentucky QB Mike Hartline has already thrown 6 interceptions this year, which is equal to his touchdown passes. If Louisiana Monroe wants to beat Kentucky, they are going to have to force Hartline to throw a few picks. LA Monroe will also have to watch out for Randall Cobb, Kentucky’s multi-threat player that can throw, run, catch and return punts. He has 4 touchdowns on the season, and against Auburn he was averaging 9.1 yards per carry, earning 109 total yards for the day.
Vanderbilt @ South Carolina, 7:00pmVanderbilt’s QB, Larry Smith, has thrown seven intercep-
tions in the last six games, and after seeing South Carolina’s defense play against Alabama, Smith could have another bad day this Saturday. While only losing twice this season, South Carolina is doing well. Jarvis Giles, who was suspended for the game against Alabama for an undisclosed violation of team policies, is questionable for the game against Vandy. This limits South Carolina’s ability on offense and makes them a very one-dimensional team. If Vanderbilt shows up to play, South Carolina could get caught on their heels after their defeat last week.
Auburn @ LSU, 7:30pmAfter starting off strong with 5 wins in a row, Auburn has
faltered in the last couple of weeks, losing to Arkansas and Kentucky. Auburn will hope to redeem themselves this weekend in Baton Rouge. If Auburn wants to win this game they are going to have to establish their running game with Ben Tate, also they are going to have step it up on defense. Ranked just 10th in the SEC in points allowed, they average 27.2 points allowed per game. They are also ranked 10th in rushing yards allowed and 9th in total overall yards allowed. LSU wants to continue their winning season and wipe the loss against Florida from their minds. After getting a bye week, LSU should be well-rested and ready to play. Look for WR Brandon Lafell to make a few catches against the weak Auburn defense. If LSU can throw the ball and open up their running game, they should walk away with a victory. Also, the Auburn defense is going to have to help its offense if they want chance at this win.
Florida @ Mississippi State, 7:30pmAfter beating Middle Tennessee 27-6, Mississippi State is
looking to bring down the football giants known as the Florida Gators. After squeezing by Arkansas, Florida needs to be careful if they want to stay undefeated. If Florida’s LB Brandon Spikes can stay healthy through the entire game, Florida’s defense should be able to shut down Mississippi State’s relentless running attack. State’s running back Anthony Dixon is having an outstanding season so far, with six touchdowns running for more than 100 yards each game. He is facing the best defense he has seen this Saturday, and if Florida can’t stop Dixon, this one might get ugly for the top-ranked Gators. The Bulldogs would like to see a few of those fumbles this week that Arkansas saw last week inside the red zone.
Florida Junior NT Lawrence Marsh is still questionable for the Mississippi State game. He suffered a high ankle sprain that has limited his playing time. He is also the No. 1 NT on the depth chart for Florida this season.
Senior CB Marshay Green was out for the UAB game due to a cracked rib and kidney problem. He is questionable for the Arkansas game. This is a big loss for Ole Miss due to the fact that he is their starting CB and top kick returner. He also led the Rebels in 2008 in passes broken up with six.
Mississippi State’s Zach Smith is still dealing with his post-concussion symptoms that kept him out of the Houston and MTSU games, he is questionable for Florida. Smith is the No. 1 FS for the Bulldogs during this 2009 season.
AP TOP 251. Alabama2. Florida3. Texas4. USC5. Cincinnati6. BoiseState7. Iowa8. Miami(FL)9. LSU10.TCU11.GeorgiaTech12.Oregon13.PennState14.OklahomaState15.VirginiaTech16.BrighamYoung17.Houston18.OhioState19.Utah20.Pittsburgh21.TexasTech22.WestVirginia23.SouthCarolina24.Kansas25.Oklahoma
BCS Standings1. Florida2. Alabama3. Texas4. BoiseState5. Cincinnati6. Iowa7. USC8. TCU9. LSU10.Miami(FL)11.Oregon12.GeorgiaTech13.PennState14.VirginiaTech15.OklahomaState16.BrighamYoung17.Houston18.Utah19.OhioState20.Pittsburgh21.Wisconsin22.Arizona23.WestVirginia24.SouthCarolina25.Kansas
Sep.5 VTech W34-24Sep.12 FLInt’l W40-14Sep.19 N.Texas W53-7Sep.26 Arkansas W35-7Oct.3 Kentucky W38-20Oct.10 Mississippi W22-3Oct.17 SouthCarolina W20-6Oct.24 Tennessee HomeNov.7 LSU HomeNov.14 MississippiSt. AwayNov.21 Tenn-Chatt HomeNov.27 Auburn Away
touchdownalabama.net | 27
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1 Before the creation of the SEC, Alabama played in which conference?a. the Easternb. the Southernc. the Atlanticd. the Appalachian
2 How many of the full-time coaches on the 2008 Nick Saban coaching staff played for Alabama?a. 0b. 2
c .4d. 6
3 Nick Saban was named the __________ coach in Alabama history.a.15thb.22nd
c.27thd.35th
4 Which player was NOT on the 1992 national championship team?a. Derrick Lassicb. Steve Buskyc. David Palmerd. Sherman Williams
5 The most penalties Alabama has ever made in a single bowl game, during the 2000 Orange Bowl, was __________.a.15b.18
c.21d.25
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Authentic Mexican Restaurant
(corner of 13th Street)(205) 343-0300
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