Demeco Ryans should call the police

In a stunning turn of events that has left fans and pundits alike scratching their heads, the NFL's decision to bestow the Coach of the Year Award upon Kevin Stefanski at the 2024 "NFL Honors" ceremony has sparked controversy and disbelief. In what can only be described as a bewildering oversight, Demeco Ryans, whose transformative leadership and strategic genius have been the talk of the season, was inexplicably overlooked. The decision has prompted an outcry among those who believe that justice in the world of sports has been sidestepped, leading to calls, both jestingly and seriously, for Ryans to "call the police" over what has been branded as "Grand Theft" by the NFL.

The heart of the controversy lies not in the diminishment of Stefanski's accomplishments but in the overshadowing of Ryans' exceptional achievements throughout the season. Under Ryans' guidance, his team has not only seen a dramatic turnaround from their previous performances but has also been at the forefront of innovation, setting new standards for gameplay and strategy that have reverberated throughout the league. His ability to inspire peak performance in his players, adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the game, and maintain a winning mentality against all odds has been nothing short of remarkable.

Critics of the NFL's decision argue that the criteria for selecting the Coach of the Year seem to have been forgotten or ignored. Traditionally, the award recognizes not just a successful record but also the ability to overcome adversity, innovate, and inspire. By these measures, Ryans was not just a contender but the clear frontrunner. He took a team from the cellar of the AFC South (3-13) to the playoffs. His leadership has been transformative, his tactics groundbreaking, and his impact undeniable. Yet, the accolade went elsewhere, leaving many to question the integrity of the selection process.

Supporters of Stefanski will argue that his achievements this season are also worthy of recognition. Indeed, Stefanski has led his team with grace and effectiveness, showcasing tactical savvy and an impressive ability to get the best out of his players. However, the debate centers not on Stefanski's worthiness but on the comparative impact and achievements of both coaches. In a year where Ryans has been a standout story, the decision to overlook his contributions feels to many like a misstep that undermines the award's purpose: to honor the most outstanding coaching performance of the season.

The fallout from this decision is likely to reverberate for some time. Discussions about the criteria for awards, the transparency of the selection process, and the recognition of true excellence in coaching are now at the forefront. While awards are but a small part of the sporting landscape, they carry significant weight in acknowledging and celebrating the hard work, innovation, and leadership within the league.

In the end, the controversy surrounding the 2024 Coach of the Year Award serves as a reminder of the passion that fuels the world of sports. It underscores the importance of fair recognition and the deep connection fans and participants have with the game and its figures. As the dust settles, one can only hope that this incident prompts a closer examination of how we recognize excellence and a renewed commitment to celebrating the true spirit of competition and achievement in the NFL.

The Earthquake is Coming: Venture Capital and the Privatization of College Football

Over the past several days, we have seen the pace of the evolution in college football pick up significant momentum.

The question that is swirling is “why is the NCAA choosing to make an example of Tennessee by applying archaic booster rules to the current NIL environment?”

I believe it is because we are hearing the death rattle from the NCAA.

The NCAA is frightened and has overplayed its hand

The NCAA has had years to produce a workable solution to the current legal landscape of college athletics. Instead of proactively engaging member schools, athletes, state governments, and federal agencies, the NCAA has run and hid. Believing that the courts would halt their efforts, it has chosen paralysis and waited for others to define reality.

Now, facing imminent change, the NCAA is choosing to harass a member institution with the promise of taking on every almost single member institution for something that courts are sure to redefine completely. Nothing the NCAA proposes to do will stand because of the inconsistent application of a patchwork of inapplicable and outdated rules. What the regulators are attempting is way too little, way too late.

Why now?

The question is, why chose now to act. I believe it is because they know that the final act is underway.

Current events are unfolding in a way to reframe the entire situation so that the NCAA becomes completely irrelevant.

Murmurs abound

Over the past few weeks, the undercurrent of rumbles coming from SEC & B1G circles have begun to add up. On Friday, the league’s announced an exploration of a solution to the unregulated mess created by the NCAA’s ineptitude in the face of NIL and almost completely unregulated transfers.

Privately, the rumors go much deeper to point toward substantial movement toward an SEC/B1G football breakaway blessed by major television partners. This new quasi-professional league would include university-based teams that are majority owned by the universities, but are privately funded by capital investment by minority shareholders.

Players would be student-athlete/employees who are competitively compensated and are able to collectively bargain with the league for their wage parameters and working conditions.

The teams and the league they form will be for-profit private ventures that generate significant income for the schools and the athletes they employ.

In the end, I believe this is why schools like Florida State are exploring venture capital investments. Not primarily to buy their way out of their school’s Grant of Rights agreement with the ACC (which I believe will become both become increasingly irrelevant and significantly cheaper in the not so distant future as the SEC/B1G walk away from the NCAA). But instead to capitalize a new business for schools coming from the ACC/Big12 to the new league.

I believe it will soon become apparent that we are living at the historical intersection of both the privatization and the professionalization of the SEC/B1G. And, call me a lunatic, but I believe it will be a done deal by the middle of August with a launch for the 2025 football season.

A little housekeeping

The greatest casualty will be SEC/B1G Olympic sports that will cease to exist. Other lesser team sports like basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer will create their own league championships with television contract funded post-season tournaments as the NCAA championships die a rapid death.

Hang on. It’s about to be a wild ride

What do you think will happen and when? Let’s hear your thoughts with a comment below or at @DrRick_TWO.

Do you agree or disagree?

The End is Near: The NCAA, Tennessee, and the SEC/B1G Exploratory Committee

Big news dropped yesterday as the SEC & B1G announced an exploratory committee to investigate the changing landscape of college football, the role of the NCAA, and their future plans.

Make no mistake, this is the beginning of the end, and the end is coming fast. One sure sign is the NCAA’s plaintive wail of a volley fired toward Tennessee.

Why now

Pundits have been puzzled by why the NCAA leaked their inquiry into NIL violations by the Vols. Honestly, no one could figure why the NCAA would try to bust Tennessee for what everyone is doing and for what no rules exist to prohibit.

Now, the answer seems simple. The NCAA is on its deathbed. No longer possessing any role, the agency seemed to have been hoping to use the threat of messy sanctions and the specter of litigation to back the SEC and B1G down before they do the inevitable.

With yesterday’s announcement, the NCAA’s two premier conferences called the governing body’s bluff. Not even the fear of the complication of losing revenue generating postseason tournaments for sports like men’s and women’s basketball could stop things.

Succession

The SEC & B1G have set into motion a plan that will almost certainly end with their succession from NCAA and the formation of a collegiate super league with paid players representing their respective schools.

The hows & whens of this plan are yet to be determined, but credible sources have a summer deadline projected for completion of the plan.

Conclusion

In short, college football as we know it really is dead. All that is left to clarify its funeral arrangements and to give it the send off it deserves.

Stay tuned. More to come.

Keep watching here & pay attention to my dude @CoachSmook on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@CoachSmook for developing information…

FINAL COUNTDOWN: The Imperative Shift in College Athletics—Professionalization of the Big Ten and SEC

The landscape of college athletics is at a pivotal crossroads. The Big Ten and SEC are considering a radical move to professionalize, primarily driven by the need to resolve ongoing legal challenges. I ran across an X post from @Genetics56 that started me doing a little digging. Here’s what I’ve pieced together.

Behind Closed Doors

There's a quiet but significant effort by the Big Ten and SEC to develop a compensation model that could redefine their relationship with athletes. This involves collective bargaining, marking a significant shift from traditional collegiate sports models. This a radical shift that many CFB fans will likely hate, but the change seems inevitable in a world where the television rights for games alone are worth billions of dollars. Athletes have a legitimate legal argument as to their entitlement to participate in that revenue.

Legal Pressures

Recent legal developments, such as the House v. NCAA antitrust case, have put immense pressure on these conferences. With potential damages exceeding billions, the current model seems unsustainable. The Big 10 and SEC seem to be quietly constructing a preemptive plan that would help them avoid an adverse judgement which would sink college football at the FBS level.

The Inevitable Change

Ultimately, this movement isn't just about financial pressures. It's a response to a changing environment where traditional models no longer suffice. Leaders in academics and athletics recognize the need for a shift. The world that made NIL and the widening of the economic gap between the Big 10 and SEC and the rest of the FBS isn’t going to close. The gap is going to become a chasm, and the two leagues are apparently preparing to break away before the enevitable fallout begins.

Historical Context and Future Direction

This is hardly the first instance of a seismic shift like this in athletics. In fact, college athletics have always been evolving. There was a day when the forward pass was illegal. Today it is the center of most offensive philosophies. Once, schools could offer unlimited athletic scholarships. Today teams are limited to 85 scholarship players. The separation of FCS and FBS is a testament to the reality that levels and divisions come as a result of economic disparities. The Big Ten and SEC's move might be the next big step in this evolution.

I first heard this notion over a decade ago from Nick Saban in a Q & A after a speech he delivered. He believed that top level college football would be limited to 60 teams and would function much like the NFL. In this model, there would be no games outside of the 60 team league, and there would be a playoff system in place. We have already taken major steps in that direction. One of which is the defanging of the NCAA.

The NCAA's Diminishing Role

The NCAA is essentially impotent. Recent legal and operational failures have only accelerated this shift. At this point no one fears the roar of the toothless old lion. Think about Michigan’s bravado in the face of recent allegations of major violations. Michigan does not fear the NCAA at all when in past decades they would be quaking at the propspect of major sanctions. Proposals to unify Power 5 conferences under a common framework have fallen short, highlighting the need for a more radical approach.

Implications for Athletes and Schools

Professionalization carries risks and changes the dynamics between athletes and institutions. However, it seems a necessary step to navigate the legal landscape and redefine collegiate athletics. Without change, the likely path for the future is the creation of a “minor league” style system for post-high school athletes with a compensation range that far exceeds the pay found currently in NIL deals or leagues like the UFL (formerly the XFL and USFL).

Conclusion

The transition towards professionalization is not just about legalities or finances; it's a fundamental change in how collegiate sports operate. The Big Ten and SEC are at the forefront of this transformation, signaling a new era for college athletics. While this shift will bring challenges, it appears to be a necessary evolution in the face of a rapidly changing landscape.

Final Thoughts

The coming months are crucial, and we can expect significant developments in this arena. The transformation is underway, and it’s time to brace for a new chapter in college sports.

The Plot Thickens…Catapult Issues a Statement

According to Blake Schuster of For the Win, Catapult released the following statement today after Isaiah Bond’s remarks yesterday regarding Alabama’s decision to restrict video review using the system on athlete’s personal devices:

“We are aware of the ongoing investigation of the alleged unauthorized access to NCAA football video footage. We have conducted an internal investigation and have not found any security breach in our systems. We have shared this with local authorities that are conducting an investigation. We will continue to support the ongoing investigation with the NCAA and local authorities. At Catapult, we hold ourselves to the highest of standards and safeguarding customer information is of utmost importance to us.”

At this point, Catapult denies a “security breach.” Time will tell. Apparently both the NCAA and local authorities are doing a deeper dive into whether any illegal activity has taken place around the athletic perfomance and game anaylsis tool. It is noteworthy that this statement by Catapult makes no mention of FBI involvement in the investigation which has been announced back in October around Michigan’s dismissal of Matt Weiss for involvement in alleged “computer access crimes.” It remains unclear as to whether the these circumstances are related.

More…

Dan Wetzel just posted on X that Michigan is not the focus of the investigation into the Catapult breach, and both Alabama and Michigan have discontinued using the system at this point.

We will continue to follow this story…

The Matt Weiss Story Is All Starting to Make More Sense

Back in January, the story surrounding Matt Weiss’ dismissal from the coaching staff of the University of Michigan’s Football program was odd to say the least. At the time, no one looking into the story could make much sense of what the former Michigan Co-offensive Coordinator & Quarterbacks Coach had done.

In a story in the Detroit Free-Press on the matter, the reason for the firing was alleged “computer access crimes.” Details beyond that were hard to come by.

Message boards filled with speculation about the nature of the offense, including talk of internet pornography, gambling, and even grade tampering. Amidst all the wild conjecture, nothing concrete really ever emerged.

Then in early October, news broke of the sign stealing scandal broke. In short order, the NCAA launched an investigation. A low-level staffer Connor Stalions who came to the Wolverines after a career in military intelligence quit amidst the cloud of controversy. Jim Harbaugh was eventually suspended for 3 games as punishment for the incident, but a full understanding of what actually happened or the full extent of the cheating is still unclear.

The relationship between Weiss & Stalions’ and any connection to their transgressions has also been elusive. Adding to the intrigue, it was revealed in late October that the FBI had launched an extensive Cyber Crimes investigation into Weiss’ actions at Michigan. According to an article by Matt Garcia in the Free-Press, authorities described the investigation as "extensive, ongoing, and [is]of the utmost priority. Additional information will be provided when available."

Fast forward to yesterday, and it seems we got a clue as to what may be going on. Several Alabama players revealed that the Tide Football program has taken additional security measures for Rose Bowl preparation including not allowing players to download video to personal devices or to view video outside team facilities.

In addition, Isaiah Bond made references to some vulnerability with the Catapult system used by Alabama and many other programs. Although not clear how Alabama uses Catapult, the system is capable of handling a wide variety of applications including film study and analysis, scouting reports, performance data analytics, and more.

Could it be the cybercrime Weiss is accused of is hacking into other team’s Catapult data? This would mean access to things like self-scouting data about players and their performance, film of team’s practices & install of a game plan, and more.

The implications are dizzying. If Michigan has access to this type of information, it would be a huge advantage and much more important than mere sign stealing.

One additional thing to consider is Alabama’s hiring of George Helow. Helow has been acting as a “special assistant” to coach Saban. Did he reveal the nature of this plot and help Alabama to know how to secure itself? Connecting the dots seems to be fairly easy at this point.

Time will tell whether this theory is correct, but something is afoot.

What do you think? Post your comments and let’s discuss.

Roll Tide!

“The Tide Has Quite a History with “The Granddaddy of Them All” (Part 3)

Let’s get this out of the way and set a little context. In the previous article in this series, I confronted the false narrative that the 1946 agreement to make the Rose Bowl an exclusive contest between the Pacific Coast Conference champion and the Big-9 conference champion was a reaction against segregation. This is a notion that spread in recent year fueled by revisionist historians desperate to frame people and institutions important to them as more noble than they really were.

No, the Rose Bowl nor the two conferences involved were motivated by justice. Instead, their motivations were grounded in less virtuous considerations: money, power, and notariety. The Rose Bowl faced the very real fear of losing its place at the center of the college football world. Once the premiere postseason contest, the Rose Bowl was now one of several with the Sugar, Cotton, and Orange Bowls all hosting significant games that at various time had national championship implications.

The 1946 agreement (and its successive iterations) was an attempt by the Rose Bowl to salvage its standing. The committee gambled on what it believed was a surefire strategy to solidify a relationship with the relatively more affluent Big-9. Bringing schools from the economically prosperous and more densely populated midwest was really less of a gamble and more of an obvious play. In the short run, this alliance looked like the best way to protect the future of the Rose Bowl and to guarantee its opportunity to be the biggest game on New Year’s Day.

As time passed, the Rose Bowl’s importance diminished as if goverend by the law of diminishing returns. Since 1946, the Rose Bowl hosted the eventual national champion 11 times. The Orange, Sugar, and Cotton hosted the eventual champion 16, 15, and 9 times; hovever, after 1970, the balance of power shifted. Of the 42 national champions awarded since 1970, the Rose Bowl hoted only 9 of the eventual champions (not considering the location of the CFP National Championship games).

The Real Stand for Justice

In 1961, an exceptional situation emerged during the college football season. By this time the PCC had broken up as a result of a pay-for-play scandal. It’s successor, the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) became the source of the Rose Bowl’s host team, but the Big-9 delayed in signing on to provide their permanent opponent (becuase they were looking for a more advantageous opportunity).

Being a shrewd man, Coach “Bear” Bryant saw an opportunity. His Navy shipmate, Admiral Tom Hamilton was the commissioner of the AAWU and the man with the sole authority to award the opportunity to come play the AAWU Champion in the 1962 Rose Bowl.

As the game approached, word began to spread that Coach Bryant was lobbying for his undefeated and untied Alabama team would be invited to play AAWU Champion UCLA. Coach Bryant had both played and coached for Alabama in the Rose Bowl. He, like most Alabama fans, saw the Rose Bowl’s agreement with the PCC and the Big-9 as a slap in the face and an attempt to keep southern teams, most notibly Alabama, out of the Rose Bowl because they were upset that the “inferior” southerners were dominating the Rose Bowl and increasingly college football as a whole.

From a football perspective, Alabama was the right choice for the Rose Bowl. The 1961 team was dominant, and they were named a consensus national champion at the end of the season for their on-field accomplishments. While this was all true, a greater story that overshadowed what happened on the field ws about to unfold.

Hearing rumors of Coach Bryant’s lobbying, the 8 black players on the UCLA squad threatened to boycott the Rose Bowl. They were protesting segregation in the south in general and on the Alabama football team specifically. Those rumors were widely reported to be true in mid-November 1961 when Los Angeles Times reporter Jim Murray got on the story. The Times published two stories under Hamilton’s on November 19 & 20, 1961.

The tone of Murray’s articles was uncharateristically acerbic for sports journalism of the time. His straightforward and caustic article challenged the segregationist laws of the south and the xenophobic policies that resulted in an all-white Alabama football squad. As expected, the articles were received differently in different parts of the country. In the south, they were seen as an attack motivated by the attempt to keep the region down as it had been since the Civil War. Ironically, most white southerners could not see the beam of racism and segregation in their own eyes as they railed against the oppression they received from the north and west.

I have to admit that my father was one of the people that saw it that way. He was a product of his time and environment. Though his attitudes on race evolved, he always struggled to see the irony in the contempt he held for the Rose Bowl while dismissing the depth of the evil in segregation. To him, segregation wasn’t right, but it just was. It was unjust, but he was powerless to change it.

Conclusion

Hindsight always being 20/20, it is easy to overlay a contemporary perspective upon the norms of the past.

Though wildly unpopular in the south, the work of Jim Murray set in motion a ripple that would become an earthquake just a few years later as southern universities integrated their sports teams. Integration was a victory, but parity was a long way away.

In the end, Jim Murray helped the student-athletes of UCLA make their stand and achieve a victory for justice and equality, but their victory did not keep Alabama from the national championship in 1961. Like so many steps forward in the Civil Rights Movement, this one was tinged with a foot being drug behind.

There are some things that I think Murray got wrong. He painted Coach Bryant as a thoroughgoing racist. I think Coach Bryant was probably more like my Dad, a man who was a product of his time. The stories are numerous of Coach Bryant helping black athletes from the south find places to play outside the region in which they were not permitted to compete.

Cynics will certainly point out that Coach Bryant’s strategy was at least in part self-serving. Designed to preserve his dominance and not upsetting the competitive balance that favored him more often than not. I am sure this is true, but I believe that it is equally true that Coach Bryant struggled to see how even someone as powerful as he could strike a death blow to segregation.

In the end, Coach Bryant did carry out a plan to help him free his team from the shackles of segregationist policies, but it would be another eight years before the Crimson Tide were integrated, and not until 1971 did black players actually suit up for Alabama in varsity competition. Again, the skeptical will point out that Coach Bryant did what he did because segregation was hurting the Tide on the field not becuase segregation was hurting the country away from it. They are right, but we have to give some allowance that at least Bryant did act, and he fully embraced black players unlke others including his former colleague Adolf Rupp who, although he recuited a single black player at the end of his career, retired before making a meaningful contribution to desegregation.

Like so many things in life, the story is complicated and painted in shades of grey. What is certain is the progress made from this moment in Crimson Tide history along with countless others would be evidenced by the makeup of the Crimson Tide team that next made a postseason appearance in Pasadena. But that is a story for tomorrow. I hope you’ll come back and join me here then.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please comment here or at @TWO__Rick on @X.

Roll Tide!

The Tide Has Quite a History with “The Granddaddy of Them All” (Part 2)

Between the time my father was 5-years-old and the time he was a 26-year-old freshman at the University of Alabama, the Tide made 6 trips to Pasadena to play in the Rose Bowl. Whats more, 5 other southern teams competed in 7 additional Rose Bowls. Once an afterthought, sothern college football had risen to become a juggernaut with the Crimson Tide leading the way.

Between 1926 and 1938, Alabama appeared in the Rose bowl 5 times amassing a 3-1-1 record, They had in fact become, “Dixie’s football pride,” and most Alabamians responded with pure adulation for the Tide. My father was part of a cultural phenomenon, but all he knew was that the football team he loved had become a huge source of joy in a life that had been rather hard.

My Dad Wasn’t the Only One

My Dad’s family was poor. I’m not sure he and his siblings knew it. Everyone they grew up around in downtown Mobile was just as poor. In my Dad’s case, his father died when he was 9. My grandmother worked as a receptionist for a doctor, but they barely scraped by. In fact, my grandmother had to place my aunt and uncle in an orphanage after the Great Depression began for them to survive. My Dad and his older brother worked and went to school. Life was tough, and things to be proud of were often in short supply, but one thing was constant: the success of the the Crimson Tide and his pride in them.

And, pride wasn’t reserved for folks in Alabama. The tide of success brought on by the emergence of southern football swept acros the region with folks becoming fanatical, prideful supporters of their local teams. Rivalries grew among those teams and took on huge significance. In fact, “The South’s Most Important Football Game” lit the fuse on the entire explosion of southern pride.

The Tide on Top

The Tide’s victory over the Washington Huskies in the 1926 Rose Bowl was followed by a tie with Stanford in the 1927 game, and wins over the Washington State Cougars in 1931 and Stanford again in 1935. These teams also produced Alabama’s first 4 National Championships. The run by the Crimson Tide between 1925 and the 1935 Rose Bowl was the first “dynasty’ streak of the south’s greatest football power. (a harbinger of things to come, no doubt)

Signs that Alabama along with other southern teams, was about to face a long absence from the Rose Bowl were beginning to show at the end of the 1936 season. Western fans and football powers alike had begun to sour on the novelty of southern football. Southern teams were too successful, and a restlessness was beginning to show in the invitations from the Tournament of Roses Committee. An undefeated and once tied Alabama team missed a bowl game completely after they and undefeated and once tied LSU were passed over for a Rose Bowl invitation. (LSU got the Sugar Bowl invitation as the SEC Champion)

The End

Alabama was invited back to the Rose Bowl in 1938 and lost to Cal 13-0. West coast reporters found it hard to contain their resentment against the Tide as evidenced by Maxwell Stiles of the Los Angeles Examiner writing, “The Crimson Tide was at its ebb, Alabama at last had lost a Rose Bowl Game.” Sadly, that trip was the beginning of the end.

Other bowl games gained greater prominence. The Rose Bowl was no longer automatically the national championship game nor was it revered as it had been when it was the focal point of the college football world. For its part, Alabama enjoyed contined success gaining a 1942 Cotton Bowl bid, 1943 Orange Bowl bid, and a 1945 Sugar Bowl bid.

Bama completed its 4th undefeated season in 1945 and received a Rose Bowl bid which they won. Unfortunately, this great season came in the same year as an even greater season by Army. That team was loaded. It featured Glenn Davis and “Doc” Blanchard. No shame is losing out on a National Championship to what is widely regarded as the greatest college football team of all time.

The real shame is the conversation that started during the 1946 season. The end result was an agreement between the Pacific Coast Conference and the Big 9. My father always swore that the Rose Bowl signed the deal with the Big 9 and the PCC because they were “tired of the Tide going out to California to whip somebody’s butt.” Conventional wisdom is that the decision was an economic one since inking a deal between the relatively more affluent western and midwestern conferences meant greater tourism dollars.

Perhaps that is true, but whatever the reason, it enraged the south, and the Rose Bowl’s deal likely backfired. While the game maintained prominence for decades, the deal with the PAC-12 and B1G eventually marginalized the game as other bowls took center stage with their ability to feature better matchups with national championship implications.

Revisionist historians point to segregation as the prime motivation of the Rose Bowl, the PCC, and the Big-9 to ink their original agreement. While race and desegregation eventually became issues central to the Rose Bowl and college football in general, there is little evidence that they were at the heart of the decision when it was made. That in part was evidenced by what almost happened in 1961. Stay tuned for that story in the next intallment.

The Tide Has Quite a History with “The Granddaddy of Them All” (Part 1)

For my entire life, I’ve heard the tales of Alabama’s exploits in the Rose Bowl. My father was born in 1920 in Mobile, Alabama. My Dad was a lifelong Tide fan who was just old enough to begin to understand football and really cheer for the Tide the year Alabama was first invied to the Rose Bowl.

For him, Bama exploits in the Rose Bowl were central to his fandom and for me they became the stuff of legend. Over the course of this week, I’m going to take a walk down memory lane and unpack a ton of what I’ve learned over the years. I hope you’ll enjoy the journey with me. It’s quite the tale.

The Beginning

In the 1920s, football in the South wasn’t what it is today. World War I put a temporary halt to college football. As things began to return to normal, schools resumed playing, and many schools in the region had teams. It’s hard to believe now, but southern football was far from the central activity it has become today. In fact, it was little more than an after thought in the minds of most.

The seat of college football prior to the mid-1920s was in the north and the midwest. The sport had been dominated by Harvard, Yale, and Princeton from its inception. The formation of the Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States (the precursor of the NCAA) and the evolution of the rules of football opened the sport to more schools.

While the popularity of the sport grew, football also faced strong headwinds from academicians. University professors and presidents alike fought the development of bowl games following the regular football season. Their reasoning was the negative impact that additional games, practices, and travel has on the academic lives of the student-athletes involved (they must be spinning in their graves today). Over the years both university presidents and professors unions used their influence to keep teams from the north and the midwest from playing in bowl games to which they were invited. This bias from the administration and faculties of the more prestegious schools in the north and midwest would come to benefit Alabama and other southern schools significantly.

Opportunity Knocks

In 1925, Alabama’s football team went 9-0 and won the Southern Conference championship. Coach Wallace Wade’s team was on the radar of the Rose Bowl, the game that has by this time become the defacto national championship game. Unfortunately, representatives of the Rose Bowl saw Alabama’s game against Georgia Tech and were not impressed enough to invite the team to Pasadena for the 1926 Rose Bowl. Fortunately, the three teams they did invite rejected the invitation, and Bama got a second chance.

While the presidents of the first three schools rejected the invitations under pressure from their faculties, President George H. Denny had no such issue. Unlike the eastern school presidents, Denny (and other southern school presidents) recognized this as an opportunity. Relatively speaking, the south was lagging behind the rest of the country and had been since the Civil War.

The invitation to the Rose Bowl represented the opportunity for the University of Alabama to get visibility on a national stage. By the 1920s, national magazines and wire services were covering college football, and the sport was growing a huge following across the country, and the following was soon to explode. The 1926 game would be the first to be broadcast nationally on radio. The recognition brought by a Rose Bowl appearance would be a bonanza for a school, in the midst of an economically lagging region, that was struggling to recruit students from the rest of the country. In fact, even Auburn president Spright Dowell sent a telegram wishing the team good luck in recognition as the old saying goes, “if the tide rises, all the ships in the harbor rise.”

The Trip West

The Tide headed west on a 4 day train ride, playing poker and studying the gameplan. Once in California, star halfback Johnny Mack Brown and his teammates were caught up in a whirlwind of reporters, photographers, and distractions. To combat the chaos, Coach Wallace Wade sequestered the team and put them through gruling practices. By gametime, the team was ready. Despite trailing 12-0 in the opening half, the Tide roared back and won their first Rose Bowl 20-19 over the Washington Huskies behind the play of Brown and Quarterback Pooley Hubert.

The Aftermath

The Crimson Tide won not only for themselves, the university, and even the State of Alabama. In the end, they won for the south.

The team was received as conquering heroes at every train stop along the way through the region culminating with a huge celebration even attended by over 1,000 Tulane University students. With the the Tide win, the south could no longer be overlooked on a national stage. In winning the 1926 Rose Bowl and the 1925 National Chapionship, the Crimson Tide became the stuff of legend, and opened the door to a wealth of opportunity.

Johnny Mack Brown vaulted from his place on the Tide squad to become a movie star. The University of Alabama attracted notariaty and students from across the country. Southerners in general looked upon the game as validation that they were not in fact inferior. The 1926 Rose Bowl was truly “The Game that Changed the South.

Will Jalen Milroe Declare for the 2024 Draft?

Hear me out. Back in September, this sounded completely absurd, but today. Today it may not be so far fetched.

Milroe’s Improvement

It can’t be denied that Jalen Milroe is a vastly improved QB after game 12. Nick Saban describes him as a “point guard” who has learned he doesn’t have to dribble the ball all over the court. Instead, Milroe is becoming at home with the balance of distributing the ball and taking the play into his own hands with his instincts and incredible physical talent. Though not perfect, his decision making in closing pocket is light years from where it was against Texas.

Why Would He Go?

Two words: “Anthony Richardson.” Milroe is every bit the athlete Richardson is and is perhaps even now ahead of where He was as a collegiate signal caller before entering the draft. Although raw, Richardson became the #4 draft pick and earned himself an almost $34M contract from the Indianapolis Colts.

It would seem that similar is plausible for Milroe in such a QB talent starved NFL. If Milroe grades out as a high first round pick, he has to go. No NIL deal package can possible offset the riches of the NFL.

Why Would He Stay?

Primarily because he is too raw and coming out now would cost him huge future earnings. While we’d love to believe that love for the Crimson Tide or loyalty to us fans would factor it, it can’t. NIL can make the decision to stay easier but it can never remove the pressure to go to the NFL when top 10 draft pick money is in play.

Where Does He Stand Today?

As of right now, no significant draft analysts have Milroe on their draft boards, but with a Heisman-worthy performance in the SEC Championship Game tomorrow, I would expect that to change. Also having some bearing on it will be movement in and around Bama’s QB room as the transfer portal heats up. For instance, if Bama’s QB room shuffles to become thinner than expected or perhaps Arch Manning reemerges as a Bama option as a result of Quinn Ewers staying at Texas. That could mean pressure on Alabama to move on from Milroe (although I highly doubt it. Coach Saban isn’t given to those types of decisions.)

Conclusion

In the end, Jalen Milroe is most likely the game one starter in Tuscaloosa in 2024, but we’ve all learned never to say never.

What do you think? Please comment here or on X.

To root on the Tide, go grab the official spirit towel of the Crimson Tide, The Tidal Towel (tm). Use the code “TWO” to get $1 off per item. Visit https://whitwilsports.com to get yours today.

Thanks & Roll Tide

Storm Warning -SEC Championship Edition

As the Alabama Crimson Tide gears up for the SEC Championship Game, all eyes are on what promises to be a classic showdown against the formidable Georgia Bulldogs. Here at TideWorldOrder, we've seen the Crimson Tide navigate a season of highs and lows, but as any Bama fan knows, it's all about how you finish.

Offense

Alabama's offense this year has been a mixed bag. We've seen moments of sheer brilliance, often overshadowed by periods of inconsistency. However, the talent is undeniable. With a quarterback like Jalen Milroe, who combines poise with explosive playmaking ability, Alabama always has a chance. The key against Georgia's stout defense will be the offensive line's ability to hold firm, giving Milroe the time he needs to work his magic.

With the news that Jase McClellan is likely out, JAM Miller and Justice Haynes will have to step up and contribute. This also means that both will have to perform in pass protection although they have not been in that position often. Alabama must protect Milroe and give him time to make decisions. In addition, the Tide must protect the ball. Ball security with an abaility to run against a tough Georgia front 7 will be a key to opening up the explosive plays by Milroe.

Defense

This is where the Tide can really shine. Alabama's defense has been a force to be reckoned with. They will face a tough test against Georgia's balanced attack, but if there's one thing we know about Nick Saban's teams, it's that they rise to the challenge. The defensive line needs to pressure the Bulldogs' Carson Beck constantly and disrupt his rhythm. Georgia hasn’t faced a defense like Alabama all season, and it’s going to be interesting to see how the freshman QB responds to being harassed by the best EDGE duo in college football.

I what figures to be a slugfest, defense will be huge, and takeaways will be more important than ever. The Tide are +0.5 in turnover margin per game this season after going -0.2 per game last year (the only year with a negative ratio in Nick Saban’s tenure). In what I expect to be a close game, a turnover is likely to make the difference.

Special Teams

Often the unsung heroes, Alabama's special teams could play a crucial role in this game. Field position and taking advantage of every scoring opportunity will be critical, and that's where the special teams come in. A big return or a clutch field goal could be the difference in a tight game. Wil Reichard and James Burnip have been some of the Tide’s most consistent performers historically although Reichard has missed a couple of FGs down the stretch. Look for both to come up big in this one.

The return game is a bit of a mystery with Kool-aid McKinstry having lost his job to Caleb Downs. Downs’ explosiveness is a major weapon for the Tide. Look for a big return in a crucial moment to provide Bama with a much needed spark.

The Saban Factor

Nick Saban. Alabama has been here before. The bright lights of the SEC Championship Game are nothing new to Saban and his squad. This experience in high-stakes games could give the Tide the edge they need. Saban is 7-0 in Mercedes-Benz Stadium and 16-1 lifetime in Atlanta with the only defeat coming at the hands of Tim Tebow and Florida in the 2008 SEC Championship Game.

My Prediction

Expect a hard-fought, tightly contested game. Both teams are stacked with talent, but I believe Alabama's grit and the tactical genius of Nick Saban will see the Tide eke out a victory in a nail-biter.

Final Score: Alabama 27, Georgia 24

As the Tide rolls into the SEC Championship, remember, it's not just about the talent on the field; it's about the heart, the history, and the unyielding spirit of the Crimson Tide. Roll Tide!

To root on the Tide in the SEC Championship Game, go grab the official spirit towel of the Crimson Tide, The Tidal Towel (tm). Use the code “TWO” to get $1 off per item. Visit https://whitwilsports.com to get yours today.

Thanks & Roll Tide

What is your prediction. Leave a comment below.

Question Marks and Controversies: The CFB Playoff Committee's Inconsistency and the #8 Alabama Dilemma

Fellow Tide faithful, as another college football season winds down, the landscape is as electrifying as ever. Yet, amidst the thrill of victories and the agony of defeats, there’s a lingering shadow casting doubts over the fairness and consistency of the College Football Playoff (CFB) Committee. Particularly, the ranking of our #8 Alabama Crimson Tide has raised more than a few eyebrows and questions.

The Core Issue

The heart of the matter lies in the seeming inconsistency in the CFB Playoff Committee's decision-making process. How are teams ranked? What metrics are prioritized? These are questions that should have clear, transparent answers, but alas, they remain as murky as a muddy river, and Chairman Boo Corigan’s public comments have done nothing to bring greater clarity.

On the one hand, they say they value resume yet Oregon has played the 18th toughest schedule in FBS while Alabama has the 4th toughest. On the other hand, they value the eye test. What is certain is that their reasoning doesn’t pass the sniff test, and the committee is unwilling to answer hard questions.

The weekly selection show on ESPN is a slickly produced dog & pony show with Corrigan producing scripted answers to obviously predictable questions. The interview is about as real as an edition of Monday Night Raw: scripted and predetermined.

The Alabama Situation

Now, let's talk about the Crimson Tide. Ranked at #8, the question isn't just about whether this ranking is fair. It's about the rationale behind it. We've seen the Tide demonstrate resilience, skill, and the kind of football that defines champions increasingly over the season. Moreover, Bama’s only loss was a 10-point loss to a Texas team that hasn’t played nearly as well since beating the Tide. Oregon is clearly the inferior team to both Alabama and Texas yet, here we are, scratching our heads at a situation that seems more puzzling than a complex jigsaw puzzle.

The Inconsistency Problem

The committee's criteria for ranking seems to fluctuate like the tides. Is it the strength of schedule? The quality of wins? The manner of losses? There appears to be a lack of consistency in how these factors are weighed. One week, a team's strong schedule is lauded; the next week, another team's narrow victories are overlooked. This inconsistency isn’t just confusing; it's frustrating for teams, players, and fans alike.

The Bigger Picture

This isn't just about Alabama. This is about the integrity of college football. Every team, every player deserves a clear, level playing field where rules and criteria are transparent and consistent. The current state of affairs, unfortunately, leaves much to be desired in this regard.

The Way Forward

What we need is clarity. The CFB Playoff Committee must strive for greater transparency in their decision-making process. Fans, teams, and everyone involved in college football deserve to understand the 'why' behind the rankings. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the process, the criteria, and the fairness of it all.

Final Thoughts

As we continue to support our Crimson Tide, let's also advocate for a more transparent and consistent approach in college football rankings. It's not just about where Alabama stands; it's about ensuring the spirit of the game is upheld in every decision made.

The Mount Rushmore of Alabama Quarterbacks – A Crimson Chronicle

Introduction:

Welcome back to another edition of the Bama Forever Podcast. Today, we dive into the rich history of Alabama football and discuss the Mount Rushmore of Alabama quarterbacks. Join hosts Scott Moore and Rick Morton as they reminisce about the iconic players who have donned the crimson and white. From legends like Joe Namath and Kenny Stabler to modern-day heroes like Tua Tagovailoa, we explore the impact these quarterbacks have had on Alabama football.

Section 1: Faith, Family, and Football

As we enter the Thanksgiving season, it's a time to reflect on what we're thankful for. For Alabama fans, faith, family, and football hold a special place in our hearts. Rick and Scott discuss how these three pillars converge during this time of year and set the stage for exciting football matchups.

Section 2: The Crimson Chronicle - Unveiling the Mount Rushmore

In this segment, Rick poses a question that sparked widespread conversation on Twitter—What is your Mount Rushmore of Alabama quarterbacks? The duo delves into their personal picks, starting with the legendary Joe Namath. From Namath's iconic career to his status as a Coach Bryant favorite, his inclusion on the Mount Rushmore seems undeniable.

Section 3: Snake Stabler and Bart Starr - Icons of Alabama Football

Kenny Stabler and Bart Starr, both Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks, have left an indelible mark on Alabama football. Rick and Scott discuss how these quarterbacks contributed to Coach Bryant's early national titles and shaped the program's legacy.

Section 4: Tua Tagovailoa - A Dynamic Force

The conversation then shifts to Tua Tagovailoa, hailed as the most dynamic quarterback in Alabama history. Rick reminisces about Tua's precision and accuracy, noting his unfortunate career-ending injury at Mississippi State. However, Tua's impact can never be overstated, and he secures his place on the Mount Rushmore.

Section 5: A.J. McCarron - A Champion's Legacy

A.J. McCarron may not receive the same reverence as other Alabama quarterbacks, but his three championship rings and stellar performances make him a deserving member of the Mount Rushmore. Rick and Scott discuss McCarron's legacy and the importance of recognizing his contributions.

Section 6: Remembering the Legends - Harry Gilmer and Bart Starr

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as Rick recalls Harry Gilmer, one of the first pro quarterbacks to emerge from Alabama. They also pay homage to Bart Starr, another fantastic example of Alabama football's quarterback lineage. Additionally, Rick includes Walter Lewis, his personal favorite quarterback, on his personal Mount Rushmore.

Section 7: Jalen Milroe - The Future of Alabama Football

Looking ahead, Rick and Scott speculate on potential additions to the Mount Rushmore. Jalen Milroe, wearing number four for the Crimson Tide, has shown immense growth since the beginning of the season. With upcoming high-stakes games against prominent rivals and top-ranked teams, Milroe has the chance to solidify his place among the Alabama greats.

Conclusion:

As Alabama fans, we are blessed with a rich history of exceptional quarterbacks. From the legends of the past to the rising stars of the present, the Mount Rushmore of Alabama quarterbacks represents the enduring legacy of the Crimson Tide. As the seasons unfold, we eagerly await the possibility of adding another face to this illustrious mountain range.

Storm Warning - 2023 Iron Bowl Preview - Bama Forever Podcast

Introduction:

Welcome to the Bama Forever Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of Alabama football. In this episode, hosts Rick Morton and Scott Moore discuss the highly anticipated Iron Bowl matchup between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn Tigers. Join us as we analyze the teams, highlight key players and strategies, and make our predictions for this exciting rivalry game.

The Iron Bowl Excitement:

The Iron Bowl is always a highly anticipated matchup, and this year is no different. For decades, the Alabama-Auburn rivalry has been known for its intense competition and legendary moments. Auburn has a history of pulling off remarkable victories, from the famous "Punt Bama Punt" to the unforgettable "Kick Six." However, this year, the experts believe that the Crimson Tide has the upper hand.

Alabama's Dominance:

Alabama enters the game with a strong team and a string of impressive victories. Led by their talented quarterback, running backs, and a solid defense, the Crimson Tide has been scoring points at will. In recent games against LSU, Kentucky, and UTC, Alabama has showcased their offensive prowess, scoring an average of 52 points per game.

Auburn's Challenges:

On the other side of the field, Auburn faces numerous challenges. The Tigers have struggled with their quarterback position, and their offense has had difficulty moving the ball against tough opponents. Even their running game, which had success against Georgia, may struggle against Alabama's formidable defense. Additionally, Auburn's talent level has been questioned, making it an uphill battle for them in this year's Iron Bowl.

Predictions:

Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, our hosts predict a decisive victory for Alabama. Rick Morton predicts a 49-14 win for the Crimson Tide, while Scott Moore believes the final score will be 42-10 in favor of Alabama. Both hosts expect Alabama's offense to dominate the game, while Auburn may struggle to put up significant points.

Looking Ahead:

A win in the Iron Bowl would mark Alabama's fourth consecutive victory over Auburn and further solidify their dominance in the rivalry. As the season progresses, the Crimson Tide will set their sights on the postseason, possibly with another national championship in sight.

Conclusion:

The Iron Bowl is set to be a thrilling matchup between Alabama and Auburn. While the rivalry has seen its fair share of surprises and upsets, this year's script seems to heavily favor the Crimson Tide. As we prepare for kickoff, Bama Forever Podcast encourages fans to enjoy the game responsibly and stay tuned for post-game analysis and discussion.

Stay tuned to the Bama Forever Podcast for more insights, post-game analysis, and updates on the Alabama Crimson Tide. And remember, Roll Tide!

TIDAL WAVE - Chattanooga Edition

This post is brought to you by Roll Tide Jerky. This delicious jerky and all their products support NIL initiatives for the Alabama Offensive Line through Yea Alabama. Check them out & use the code “TWO” at checkout to save 10% and let them know that we sent you.

What is there to say after the performance the Tide put in against the Mocs. Bama was dominant in every phase of the game. Here are a few thoughts:

• Jalen Milroe was magnificent. There were very few missteps in his entire day. From the initial pass to Jermaine Burton to his final snap, he made the right reads and was cool and calculated in the pocket. Other than a couple of overthrows on really difficult occasions, he was flawless. Frankly, had he played this way all season, he would be neck and neck with Jayden Daniels for the Heisman.

• The offensive line had one bobble giving up a sack. It was a rare breakdown in technique for a front 5 that has improved greatly in maintaining their fundamentals in the face of opposition.

• The defense was stifling save a few really big breakdowns. The Mocs’ 10 points were mostly a result of 3 chunk plays. In all 3 instances, defenders fell prey to “eye candy” in the form of misdirection that caused them to over-pursue and over-commit. The most obvious was the bust by Caleb Downs on the long pass play that led to UTC’s field goal coming out of the half. No doubt those plays will get cleaned up this week since there are so few to focus on from the game tape.

• Speaking of Caleb Downs, wow! Just wow! The athleticism he showed on the punt return for a TD combined with his intangibles tells us why Coach Saban said of him,

He’s a very instinctive football player, but this guy, there’s no arrogance about him, being one of the best players in the country at his position. He’s very focused, he’s very coachable. He wants to know everything that you can ever tell him about how he can play his position better. He takes coaching well when you talk to him about what he did or didn’t do. Wants to completely understand the whole defense not just what he’s supposed to do, so he knows exactly how he fits.

For a guy that’s a freshman, man, that’s really, really unusual. He’s bene a really, really solid player for us. He played really well, eh’s got a lot of production. I think he’s only going to get better and better.

• Watching the game live, I commented to my son after Kool-Aid McKinstry fair caught the first punt of the day that he has a confidence problem. From our vantage point, he had 10-12 yards of wide open space in front of him. Kool-Aid is an amazing player, but he is not playing instinctively on punt returns. Mistakes in past games have him thinking instead of reacting and until he can get past them and return to the instinctual player of old, he’s more of a liability than an asset in that role.

• Finally, IT’S IRON BOWL WEEK. The Tigers laid a huge egg on the Plains this week. As such, we should expect to get their best game, and we all know that strange things happen when the Tide head to the Native-American burial ground that is Jordan-Hare. Being the 10th Anniversary of the Kick-6, expect a belly full of reminiscing on the way to Saturday. Let’s hope the boys in white pay attention to none of it and lay down enough style points in the nations greatest rivalry game to force the committee acknowledge them!

Storm Warning - UTC Edition

Tomorrow, the Tide Square off against the University of Chattanooga Mocs. If you are familiar with the Mocs, then you are aware that for many years their mascot was the Chief Moccanooga named after nearby Moccasin Bend with a nod to the Native American tribes who call the Tennessee Valley home. In 1996, UTC decided to keep the shortened Mocs moniker used by so many in and around the school and to begin fresh with a Mockingbird as their new mascot. Two thoughts:

1. Kudos to the designer takes with making a Mockingbird seem intimidating.

2. Am I the only one who thinks a water moccasin was a more obvious choice?

Nevertheless, the Tide don’t figure to have much to worry about on Senior Day, but who is this team?

1. Chattanooga is coming off a 2-game losing streak including a loss to Samford, yet they are still ranked #17 in the FCS StatsPerform Top 25.

2. They have a quick D-line led by Devonnsha Maxwell who brings 37.5 career sacks into this game. This D-line should provide a bit of work for the Tide OL who have struggled a bit with speedy opponents.

3. On the defensive side of the ball, the front 7 will have to contend with Ailyn Ford who has already amassed 1199 yards rushing on the season, and the secondary will face several serviceable receivers including Sam Phillips, a redshirt freshman  who went for 9/106 and 20/269 in the last 2 contests.

This Storm Warning is more of a prediction of clear skies and smooth sailing as the Crimson Tide get a little tune up before next week’s Iron Bowl.

Roll Tide!

Tidal Wave - Kentucky Edition

Here are my observations of the game against Kentucky:

1. I was pleasantly surprised at the focus the team displayed in getting off to a fast start. Great sign of maturity as the season progresses.

2. It’s a bit troubling to see how many mental errors and sloppy plays led to Kentucky staying in the game. When the Tide had opportunities to put Kentucky away in the first half, they let them up. Today, it didn’t matter, but against a team like Georgia, that kind of thing will be a killer.

3. I liked the improvisation by Milroe early in the first half, but he went to that well a few times too many, and it resulted in a pick. I’m sure he’s going to learn a valuable lesson in not pressing to make a play on every play.

4. Having said that, his progress this year is amazing! His poise under pressure, confidence, and ability to make plays with his legs whenever needed is adding up to make Bama an offensive juggernaut. The improvement is one of the most remarkable in-season evolutions I’ve ever seen in big time college football.

5. Along that same line, the improvement by the OL is just stellar. They improve technique weekly, and the signs of good coaching are evident. Pass blocking is still a weakness, but when you have a QB who can make plays with his legs the way Milroe can, an OL breakdown seems like it ends in a very positive play more times than not.

6. The defensive line had its way with a stout Kentucky OL. Coming in, the physicality of Kentucky was a focal point, but the ones who actually made a point with power and physicality were in Crimson.

7. All of Kentucky’s points came as a result of serious breakdowns by the defense. Granted they had to defend a short field on one of those drives, but honestly, their overall performance was more dominant than the final score reflects. Take away 4-5 plays, and the defense would have pitched a shutout.  Conversely, if a couple of those plays had been a little worse, this would have been a tight game. Personally, I like it when those things to work on are well defined and correctable.

8. We have the best combination of edge rushers in college football. Period. No discussion. Turner & Braswell will go down as some of the best ever to come from the Capstone.

9. Jam Miller is the truth! He may be the third option, but he’s good enough to start at 99% of the schools in the FBS. Coming off the bench as a change of pace back, he brings the thunder to a defense that has been softened up by a steady diet of Jase & Roydell. All that, and Justice Haynes is cleaning things up when the game is determined. No doubt he’s waiting in the wings with the to be a future star.

10. Finally, I owe Tommy Rees a huge apology. I was ready to pack his U-Haul myself a few weeks ago. He has done a masterful job with this young offense. The future is bright. There is still a lot of football this year and hopefully an opportunity for the playoffs, but NEXT YEAR….I am already amped for what the Tide will be!

Thank you for liking and sharing this article, and I’d love to hear from you either by commenting here or on X.

Roll Tide

Storm Warning - Kentucky Edition

The Crimson Tide is off of two emotional home wins against Tennessee and LSU. Here’s what to look for as they square off today on the road at Kroger Field with the Kentucky Wildcats:

1. The Tide are sure to get Kentucky’s best shot. It’s going to be interesting to watch to see if Bama gets off to a fast start or if they will return to the previous pattern of sluggish first halves. It would be a great sign to see them maintain focus and intensity facing an inferior opponent coming off two tough games in a row.

2. Can Jalen Milroe continue the momentum of his last couple of weeks? I’ve made it no secret the limitations that I thought plagued him earlier this season. Having said that, I am unbelievably impressed with the development of both his skill as a field general and decision maker. He is playing more naturally, and it’s obvious how much his confidence has grown. He has taken in-season strides developmentally like I’ve never seen. This game will be a great test to see how far he’s come.

3. How will the defense respond to injuries. Deonte Lawson and Jaylen Key being out are key losses to the Tide’s dominant squad. We know that a healthy Trez Marshall and Jihaad Campbell can well fill the Lawson gap, but the “story” will likely be how Kristian Story performs in place of Key. Granted, Devin Leary and the Wildcat’s offense isn’t exactly a passing juggernaut, but this will be an important opportunity for Story to gain some additional experience through more game action in more situations. We’ll keep an eye on him.

All in all, expect the game to be close early with the Tide pulling away as their depth and strength take over.

Roll Tide!

Tidal Wave - LSU Edition

1. Jalen Milroe continues to astound me with his in-season development. Tonight’s win vaults him into the Heisman conversation. Who would have thought after the Texas game?

2. Milroe’s 21-yard TD run in the 2nd quarter was one of the most impressive plays in recent memory for an Alabama QB. The acceleration when he stuck his foot in the ground and turned upfield was almost superhuman. I wish Daniel Moore could capture the complete picture.

3. The defense bent but didn’t break. Jayden Daniels is a generational talent that I’m glad we never have to play him again. Enjoy the NFL!

4. Will Reichard had a tough night. It was unfortunate to see him not be able to add 2 field goals to his scoring total, but there is no doubt he’ll be in form when we need him.

5. Good to see Kool-aid attacking the ball in the return game. Looks like he shook off the mental issue and got back on track fielding kicks.

6. Need to keep an eye on the Jalen Key injury. If he is unavailable, it really impacts the secondary with Malachi Moore having to shuffle to Safety. That could be big next week against Kentucky.

7. Dallas Turner came up big tonight. His play was stellar in keeping a few of Daniels’ big runs from being bigger by chasing him down not to mention several key pressures when Bama moved to a 5-man front in the 2nd half. Forcing Daniels to step up uncomfortably was huge in disrupting his rhythm and getting stops.

8. Giving up 478 total yards to LSU may not seem impressive, but when you consider LSU’s squad came in with a streak of 5 consecutive 500+ yard games, the defense’s performance tonight seems pretty exceptional.

9. This team grew up with Coach Saban praising their first complete performance. Other than a shaky night from Will Reichard (which is nothing to be concerned about), the entire team put in the performance we have been waiting all season to see.

10. Last but not least, the offensive line was dominant. This is the performance we expected all year, and they finally put it together. The confidence they’ve gained as a unit the last several weeks really showed. This is an important step toward finishing the season in Atlanta and beyond.

    A great way to celebrate the OL would be to run over to Roll Tide Jerky (rolltidejerky.com) and place an order where your purchase goes to benefit the OL through the Yea Alabama NIL collective (yea-Alabama.com).

Storm Warning - LSU Edition

These two SEC West rivals will line up for their final divisional meeting tomorrow night at 6:45pm CDT. Here are my keys to tomorrow’s LSU vs. Alabama game in Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Containing Jayden Daniels

Daniels is arguably the best player in FBS this season. He boasts the top passer rating and 2nd best qbr in all of FBS. Daniels will make completions and get yards through the air or with his feet. To keep him from taking over the game, Bama’s D must make him move vertically not laterally after the snap to limit his options and give what will likely be mostly a 4-man rush to keep his big play ability under control.

Exploiting the LSU defense -

For all the talk about LSU’s defense growth, I think it is hollow chatter. The LSU secondary is vulnerable and if the Bama OL can give Milroe 3 sec. on most passing attempts, he should be able to pick them apart. Look for a lot of short passes behind the line of scrimmage and jet sweeps to run LSU’s thin DL to soften them up for the second half.

Winning special teams -

With LSU’s offense & Bama’s defense playing strength on strength and their other units having significant question marks, it may likely come down to special teams play to determine the outcome. It is crucial for Kool-aid McKinstry to get the return game back on track after a couple of shaky outings. Having James Burnip back to full strength is huge as Bama looks to control the number of LSU possessions by forcing them to drive the length of the field. If Bama is successful in keeping the score in the low 30s as they have most of this season, then Will Reinhard’s reliability is sure to be a significant factor.

Outlook

If Bama can keep it close into the 4th quarter, look for a Bama win to keep them on track for a showdown with UGA in Atlanta.

My prediction:

Bama 31-28 in a hard fought squeaker.

What do you think? Leave your comments and predictions here or on social media!