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Tonight's The Night!
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CFP National Championship
Nick Saban, left, & Dabo Swinney, right
Photo Credit: RollTide.com
Finally.
Tonight, the fat lady sings.
Yesterday the second-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide football team concluded its practice schedule in preparation for the College Football Playoff National Championship to be played tonight. Bama did a walk through on Sunday afternoon, getting familiar with the venue, and then the final meeting before the big game.
The walk through allowed the coaches and players to put the finishing touches on the game plan for tonight's contest with number one Clemson. The game tonight will be broadcast live on ESPN, with the kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CT at the University of Phoenix Stadium. Chris Fowler will be handling the play-by-play duties, Kirk Herbstreit taking care of color/analysis, Heather Cox on the sidelines and joined by Tom Rinaldi also handling sideline duties. The Crimson Tide will play its fourth National Championship game in the past seven seasons tonight.
Several stars of the National Football League will be on the sidelines tonight with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Former Tide and current Raiders rookie receiver AMARI COOPER will be there, as well as JAMES CARPENTER of the New York Jets, MARCELL DAREUS of the Buffalo Bills, LANDON COLLINS of the New York Giants, RASHAD JOHNSON of the Arizona Cardinals, D.J. FLUKER of the Chargers, JULIO JONES of the Falcons, C.J. MOSLEY of the Ravens, DEMECO RYANS of the Eagles, CARSON TINKER of the Jaguars, Heisman Trophy winner and running back for the Saints, MARK INGRAM, as well as ED STINSON and DEANDREW WHITE of the Philadelphia Eagles will all be present. Ingram will also serve as the team's College Football Playoff National Championship honorary captain for tonight's game.
Sunday kicked off with the two head coaches at the Camelback Inn for their respective press conferences. Alabama head coach NICK SABAN and his charges then went to the University of Phoenix Stadium after lunch for their first visit, a team photo and the final walk through.
This will be the 16th meeting between the Tide and the Tigers, with Clemson taking the first three meetings. The Tide, however, now rides a 12-game winning streak into tonight's contest to lead the series 12-3. The most recent meeting between the two schools came in a 34-10 win for the Tide in the 2008 Chick-fil-a Kickoff Game in Atlanta, Georgia. This was head coach Nick Saban's first victory at the helm of the Tide over a top-10 team. Clemson was ranked number nine in that contest.
Saban's Sunday Press Conference
Coach Saban began the press conference thanking the folks responsible for their hospitality, and how fabulous everyone had been to them. He mentioned that it was a first-class operation and that he appreciated that.
Saban graciously congratulated Dabo (Swinney) and his team for their "outstanding season." He spoke of how going undefeated is "very difficult to do," and that he and Alabama had a lot of respect for the team, the players for what they had accomplished this season.
Turning to the Tide, Saban said, "Our players are very excited about the opportunity they have created for themselves to have a chance to participate in the college football playoff against arguably the best team in college football, which is the Clemson Tigers.
"So, our focus and attention is to try to play the best game we possibly can which is probably what we're going to need to have success. So, again, we appreciate the College Football Playoff and the committee for all they've done to create this outstanding event."
Saban was asked what his analylists did, as well as the evolution of his support staff over his career. Saban answered, "Well, you know, we love it that we can have some extra guys around that are young guys that aspire to be coaches, and I think one of the most difficult things about our profession is how can you get experience so that you can grow and develop as a coach. The fact that we can have a few extra guys now to be analysts, to break down film, and to do quality control-type work...I think, as an entry-level that's beneficial to some guys that can move on maybe to be graduate assistants, get on the field, and get some coaching experience. Regardless of where they need to start professionally, I think this is a great thing for our profession to be able to help develop coaches, and I think those guys now have created a role and a niche for themselves that is important to every program because we all depend on them."
Both coaches were asked how their team physically, mentally, and stamina-wise going into a 15th game, and can you imagine having to play one more to win a national championship?
Dabo answered first, and then Saban answered, "I think, as a coach, you certainly acknowledge the fact that your players are going into the 15th game of the season, and I think you have to respect that in every way...and you try to get people not to focus on necessarily how they feel but to make decisions about what they need to do to continue to play well. After coaching in the NFL where you play a 16-game season, if you get in the playoffs it's 17, 18 games whatever...I think, you know, kind of try to get the players to focus on doing the things that they need to do to accomplish their goals...and not focus so much on how how they feel...because I do think it's a long season for them, they are young players...but our guys have done a really good job of sort of using the rest time that they have, that when we are practicing and preparing, their focus has been good."
Saban was asked about what he tells players that are looking to come to Alabama where there is the potential for them to sit one or more years without actually contributing in a game. He answered, "Well we've had a significant number of players play early in their career and make an impact as freshmen...I think probably four or five a year...and certainly we've had three or four on this year's team that have done an outstanding job. I think we try to create and tell everyone that they're going to get an opportunity to play. I think one of the things that sort of gets created now in recruiting in college football because of all the recruiting services...five-star, four-star and all this...is an expectation that every young man has, which sometimes can be a bit unrealistic. Maybe if you look at...football really is a development, mental game, so sometimes guys are changing positions, sometimes they're playing positions where time and development is critical to them being able to be successful at that position, and every player is different. So we try to get our guys to focus on 'what do I need to do to be a complete player at my position'...and focus on the development of what they need to do and possibly 'where can I be the best player three years from now'. I may have more value, where can I develop to be the most successful person? Where do I have the best opportunity to get a better education and develop a career off the field? And my development as a player will be evaluated, really, if I want to develop a career as a football player, more after three years than after one year. So those are the things we try to emphasize to players. I think, you know, guys going to college...we care about the person first, and their development, and hopefully our program is something that will help them be more successful in life for having been involved in the program, and they'll learn some of the things that are critical to being successful...and get an education, develop a career off the field. They all have a lot more days ahead of them where they're not going to play football than when they are. You know, the fact we have 29 guys in this game that already have degrees, and have one of the highest graduation rates in the country...I think is something that I'm proud of as well as the success our players have had on the field."
Saban was then asked about this being the last time he and defensive coordinator and new Georgia head coach KIRBY SMART will be on the sidelines together and about possibly winning this national championship together.
Saban answered, "Well, Kirby's been with me for a long time...all the way back to LSU days, Miami days, and the entire time we've been at Alabama for nine years, and Kirby has done a fantastic job in every way...in terms of relationships with players, developing players, recruiting players...doing a good job of implementing scheme system, getting people to buy-in and believe in...Kirby has done a fantastic job. I certainly appreciate the fact that he stuck here with us and has done a really good job so far in trying to finish this year for our players...and I think that's the number one reason he's here, and I'm sure he's going to be a very, very successful head coach.
"But these things are inevitable when you have really good assistant coaches," Saban continued. "They work hard to aspire to have the next oppportunity...I appreciate and respect the great job they did for us, but it also makes you pleased, and happy, and proud to see them get an opportunity to do the things that they wanted to do." He went on to compare Kirby to a son moving away and bettering himself. Plus it now opens an opportunity for someone else to step in and do what Kirby has done at Alabama.
Saban was then asked about Alabama being the "gold standard" and what Saban's goals have been as the head coach to maintain it. Saban said, "My goal is to create value for our players. That's always been the goal for me as a coach. I've touched on this before in terms of personal development...thoughts, habits, priorities that are going to help guys make good decisions that will allow them to take advantage of their gifts...which is going to give them a better chance to be successful in their life...how to set a goal, how to understand a process of what you have to do to accomplish a goal, and the discipline it takes to execute that on a day-to-day basis. Getting an education is a big part of that, so that is something that we really, really emphasize with our players, and we've had success for a number of years of being able to do an outstanding job relative to that so players are developing careers off the field. You know, we want to help them develop as football players." He spoke of helping them have success in games like the semifinal and championship game, and to help them see if they have a chance to play at the next level. He said the resources at the University of Alabama are a big help in preparing the players for life away from university.
He did go on to say that he thinks the "standard" has only been view as how many games you win, but "that's not really the standard that we operate from," Saban said.
Another question for Saban...asking what was the final, main message he has given his players going into this (championship) game. He answered, "Well, I think that what we're trying to get our players to do is to stay focused on the things that are going to help them play well in the game...and not be affected by external factors, all the things that are going on around this game. It's a big game...there's no doubt...for every player that's created an opportunity to play in it, on both sides, but you've got to focus on the next play, and do what you have to do to do your job to help your team be successful. I think that's where you want the players to stay focused. That's the message that we're trying to give them so that they can go out and have the best opportunity to be successful."
Both Saban and Swinney discussed the NFL draft grade situation, and both agreed they wanted the date pushed back to whenever the team the players are playing for are actually through with that season's competition. For some that is the end of the regular season, others the bowl game, but for these two teams it's tonight's championship game. Both agree it's a distraction.
Alabama and Clemson meet tonight for the College Football Playoff National Championship. Game time is 7:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Saban was asked what his analylists did, as well as the evolution of his support staff over his career. Saban answered, "Well, you know, we love it that we can have some extra guys around that are young guys that aspire to be coaches, and I think one of the most difficult things about our profession is how can you get experience so that you can grow and develop as a coach. The fact that we can have a few extra guys now to be analysts, to break down film, and to do quality control-type work...I think, as an entry-level that's beneficial to some guys that can move on maybe to be graduate assistants, get on the field, and get some coaching experience. Regardless of where they need to start professionally, I think this is a great thing for our profession to be able to help develop coaches, and I think those guys now have created a role and a niche for themselves that is important to every program because we all depend on them."
Both coaches were asked how their team physically, mentally, and stamina-wise going into a 15th game, and can you imagine having to play one more to win a national championship?
Dabo answered first, and then Saban answered, "I think, as a coach, you certainly acknowledge the fact that your players are going into the 15th game of the season, and I think you have to respect that in every way...and you try to get people not to focus on necessarily how they feel but to make decisions about what they need to do to continue to play well. After coaching in the NFL where you play a 16-game season, if you get in the playoffs it's 17, 18 games whatever...I think, you know, kind of try to get the players to focus on doing the things that they need to do to accomplish their goals...and not focus so much on how how they feel...because I do think it's a long season for them, they are young players...but our guys have done a really good job of sort of using the rest time that they have, that when we are practicing and preparing, their focus has been good."
Saban was asked about what he tells players that are looking to come to Alabama where there is the potential for them to sit one or more years without actually contributing in a game. He answered, "Well we've had a significant number of players play early in their career and make an impact as freshmen...I think probably four or five a year...and certainly we've had three or four on this year's team that have done an outstanding job. I think we try to create and tell everyone that they're going to get an opportunity to play. I think one of the things that sort of gets created now in recruiting in college football because of all the recruiting services...five-star, four-star and all this...is an expectation that every young man has, which sometimes can be a bit unrealistic. Maybe if you look at...football really is a development, mental game, so sometimes guys are changing positions, sometimes they're playing positions where time and development is critical to them being able to be successful at that position, and every player is different. So we try to get our guys to focus on 'what do I need to do to be a complete player at my position'...and focus on the development of what they need to do and possibly 'where can I be the best player three years from now'. I may have more value, where can I develop to be the most successful person? Where do I have the best opportunity to get a better education and develop a career off the field? And my development as a player will be evaluated, really, if I want to develop a career as a football player, more after three years than after one year. So those are the things we try to emphasize to players. I think, you know, guys going to college...we care about the person first, and their development, and hopefully our program is something that will help them be more successful in life for having been involved in the program, and they'll learn some of the things that are critical to being successful...and get an education, develop a career off the field. They all have a lot more days ahead of them where they're not going to play football than when they are. You know, the fact we have 29 guys in this game that already have degrees, and have one of the highest graduation rates in the country...I think is something that I'm proud of as well as the success our players have had on the field."
Saban was then asked about this being the last time he and defensive coordinator and new Georgia head coach KIRBY SMART will be on the sidelines together and about possibly winning this national championship together.
Saban answered, "Well, Kirby's been with me for a long time...all the way back to LSU days, Miami days, and the entire time we've been at Alabama for nine years, and Kirby has done a fantastic job in every way...in terms of relationships with players, developing players, recruiting players...doing a good job of implementing scheme system, getting people to buy-in and believe in...Kirby has done a fantastic job. I certainly appreciate the fact that he stuck here with us and has done a really good job so far in trying to finish this year for our players...and I think that's the number one reason he's here, and I'm sure he's going to be a very, very successful head coach.
"But these things are inevitable when you have really good assistant coaches," Saban continued. "They work hard to aspire to have the next oppportunity...I appreciate and respect the great job they did for us, but it also makes you pleased, and happy, and proud to see them get an opportunity to do the things that they wanted to do." He went on to compare Kirby to a son moving away and bettering himself. Plus it now opens an opportunity for someone else to step in and do what Kirby has done at Alabama.
Saban was then asked about Alabama being the "gold standard" and what Saban's goals have been as the head coach to maintain it. Saban said, "My goal is to create value for our players. That's always been the goal for me as a coach. I've touched on this before in terms of personal development...thoughts, habits, priorities that are going to help guys make good decisions that will allow them to take advantage of their gifts...which is going to give them a better chance to be successful in their life...how to set a goal, how to understand a process of what you have to do to accomplish a goal, and the discipline it takes to execute that on a day-to-day basis. Getting an education is a big part of that, so that is something that we really, really emphasize with our players, and we've had success for a number of years of being able to do an outstanding job relative to that so players are developing careers off the field. You know, we want to help them develop as football players." He spoke of helping them have success in games like the semifinal and championship game, and to help them see if they have a chance to play at the next level. He said the resources at the University of Alabama are a big help in preparing the players for life away from university.
He did go on to say that he thinks the "standard" has only been view as how many games you win, but "that's not really the standard that we operate from," Saban said.
Another question for Saban...asking what was the final, main message he has given his players going into this (championship) game. He answered, "Well, I think that what we're trying to get our players to do is to stay focused on the things that are going to help them play well in the game...and not be affected by external factors, all the things that are going on around this game. It's a big game...there's no doubt...for every player that's created an opportunity to play in it, on both sides, but you've got to focus on the next play, and do what you have to do to do your job to help your team be successful. I think that's where you want the players to stay focused. That's the message that we're trying to give them so that they can go out and have the best opportunity to be successful."
Both Saban and Swinney discussed the NFL draft grade situation, and both agreed they wanted the date pushed back to whenever the team the players are playing for are actually through with that season's competition. For some that is the end of the regular season, others the bowl game, but for these two teams it's tonight's championship game. Both agree it's a distraction.
Alabama and Clemson meet tonight for the College Football Playoff National Championship. Game time is 7:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
Bama Gymnastics Falls To UCLA
Photo Credit: RollTide.com
Alabama head coach Dana Duckworth said, "It was an awesome environment to start in for this new team. We wanted a competition that would help us move forward. When it's tight, and when it's exciting and you're up against a good team, it allows you to hone in on how to get better. We know we're good, but how are we going to be great? This was a great first meet, round one of 11 meets in our regular season.
Alabama will travel to Missouri on Friday, January 15th.
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Women's Basketball
Tide Women Drop Home Game To Vanderbilt
Photo Credit: RollTide.com
The Alabama Crimson Tide women's basketball team (12-4, 1-2 SEC) lost its first home game of the season 54-48 yesterday to the Vanderbilt Commodores in SEC play at Foster Auditorium. Though the Lady Tide held the lead for much of the game, Bama succumbed to a 23-12 barrage by Vandy in the final quarter.
Tide head coach KRISTY CURRY said, "I think the credit goes to Vanderbilt. I thought their decisions and choices down the stretch were very good. I thought their execution was better than ours. I thought they were poised and calm and looked mature with the basketball where at times we did not. You credit Vanderbilt on a day like today. I thought we didn't take very good care of the basketball. We had three turnovers at halftime and 11 in the second half. We couldn't make shots. When your starting lineup can't have a second double-digit scorer, we've got to do a better job of making plays and being aggressive."
Junior BREANNA HAYDEN led the Tide in scoring with 10 points, and was followed by sophomores QUANETRIA BOLTON and KARYLA MIDDLEBROOK with nine points each. Hayden also had a career-high and game-best eight rebounds.
Alabama was 18-52 (34.6%) from the floor compared to 15-47 (31.9%) for Vandeerbilt. Vandy did hit seven three-point shots and were 17-21 from the free throw line. Bama hit on five three-pointers and was 7-13 from the foul line.
Curry said, "In the zone, you've got to do a great job of beating that first girl and kicking and getting the ball to the high post. I thought we started the game really well, and throughout the course of the game we just couldn't make enough shots. That's the bottom line. You can tell again from the free throw line. We are 7-of-13. Free throws make a difference and getting to the line makes a difference."
Over 35 years of Alabama women's basketball were present at the half, as Bama basketball alum were welcomed and recognized at center court.
Curry commented, "I do want to thank the incredible group of alums that were here," said Curry. "We had over 40, and it is something that we are doing every other year. Just their presence was appreciated. All of them that were a part of this program when it started and to come back and embrace us means the world to all of us, so I want to thank them and their families for being here today."
Alabama travels to the Plains to take on the Auburn Tigers on Thursday, January 14th in Auburn Arena. Game time is 6 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on SEC Network+.
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Give Lane Kiffin A Break
You know, I've been one that has defended Alabama offensive coordinator LANE KIFFIN all season long. When others have drug him through the mud, including some Alabama fans, I have stood up. Regardless of what you think of him, he has done a good job as Alabama's offensive coordinator. Always agree with his calls? No. I'm sure if he bothered to read my blog he'd disagree with much of what I've written. No problem there.
Overall, no, I actually like him. He's changed over the past two years, just as head coach NICK SABAN has changed over the years at the helm of the Tide. Saban has been complimentary of his O.C. He has been complimentary of his defensive coordinator as well. He's also disagreed.
The thing is, even before games even began this season many on Twitter (and other places) were criticizing Kiffin before he had a chance. The game against Michigan State? I block six people on Twitter for actually talking smack about the man, worse than I had seen from non-Bama fans. Turns out that every major football guru has said Kiffin called a great offensive game, had the perfect game plan for Michigan State...despite the fact that many of the "Alabama faithful" were screaming to give the ball to running back DERRICK HENRY.
Michigan State had hinged its game plan on stopping running back Derrick Henry. Kiffin took that away from them. Once they had to defend the rest of Alabama's offense, Kiffin turned Henry loose. It worked. 38-0 it worked.
There's a difference in questioning and uninformed criticism. Especially when the criticism is brought to the level of calling Kiffin names. I'm talking about Alabama fans calling him names. NOT others.
Nick Saban is the head coach at the University of Alabama. No me. Not you. He has said that the game plans prepared by his coordinators of the offense and defense are on his desk between Tuesday and Thursday of each week. He has the final say. Saban determines whether the game plan is sound. It is not "sprung on him" when the game is underway. He has already examined every contingency by his coordinators. Ever any changes during the game? Of course, so don't be ridiculous.
The MAIN point here is...Nick Saban approves that game plan that Lane Kiffin is calling from the sideline. You criticize Kiffin, go ahead and throw Saban in there. He's already approved it. Deviate from the plan? Make a mistake? Sure. And I'm sure Saban handles that just fine. With both coordinators.
My point? When the defense has struggled (very few times) this season, the complaints on Twitter are the DEFENSE. The complaints about the offense are mostly KIFFIN. Now, THAT is my point. Let's pull together this Monday night. It's not like any of our coaches are trying to throw the game.
Roll Tide! Let's bring home number 16 with class from the fans just as it is done on the field.
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