GAMEDAY '08 04.11.08

TIME: 2 p.m.

TV: CSS

92,138+ The capacity crowd at last year’s A-Day game sent shock waves through the program.

g Jimmy Johns transitions to linebacker g A look back at the 2007 season g 2008 season projections 2008 A-Day Edition Special A-Day hours: Ferguson Center location 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tent on the Quad 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Bryant Museum 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Visit the SUPe Store on A-Day and get a free RTR button (while supplies last).

SUPethe Store THE CRIMSON WHITE April 11, 2008 1 92,138+ Alabama’s 2007 A-Day sets new precedent for spring games

BY CAROLINE GWALTNEY Senior Sports Reporter

Dennis Nabors remembers well the Saturday afternoon of his fi rst Alabama A-Day game nearly 15 years ago. With his Sharpie marker and souvenir football in tote and clad in a No. 2 Alabama jersey, he recalls racing for a front-row seat just to be close to the football players. “I’m sure I didn’t really know what was going on,” he said. “But I can remember yelling ‘Deuce’ for David Palmer, who was my favorite player, and all I wanted was his autograph.” Fast forward to spring 2007. Nabors, then a sophomore, re- turned to Alabama’s spring game, almost as eager as he was before his fi rst A-Day game, only, this time, he wanted to see what head coach was going to bring to the Crimson Tide. “As a child, I remember how cool it was to be so close to the players and how easy it was to have great seats,” Nabors said. “So last year it was surreal to think that I had to watch a scrimmage game from the upper deck. “It was just an indescribable awe to see that many people.” Traditionally, spring football was simply a series of practices, capped by a scrimmage game that a few dedicated fans would at- tend. But these days, especially in the college ranks, spring football games have become grandiose affairs. Perhaps no spring game in the nation drew more hype than Ala- bama’s last season. In the dawn of the Saban era, the Tide set a na- tional record for spring football attendance, drawing 92,138 fans. Owners of all 210 skyboxes in Bryant-Denny stadium requested catering, all concession stands were open and the stands were fi lled before the start of the scrimmage. The game was so well-attended that offi cials had to close the gates during the second quarter because the entire stadium was CW/ Alex Gilbert already at capacity. Alabama head coach Nick Saban coaches a player during a practice this spring. One could even say the actual football work on the fi eld took a The excitement generated around Saban’s hire in January of 2007 was a big See A-DAY, Page 4 reason for the capacity crowd at the 2007 A-Day game. Take the TIDE RIDE to Bryant- Denny Stadium for A-Day …and enjoy great dining and shopping be- fore or after the game!

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Visit shopmalls.com for 2008 RV Parking information. 2 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE The success

CW/ T.G. Paschal LEFT: Matt Caddell makes the game-winning catch with three seconds left against Arkansas. MIDDLE: Nick Saban points to the crowd after trouncing Tennessee 41-17. RIGHT: Terry Grant scores on the first play from scrimmage with a 47-yard touchdown run against Western Carolina. =cbÁbbW\U bVS]cbR]]`a[O\ T]`bV`SS US\S`ObW]\a THE CRIMSON WHITE April 11, 2008 3 Officials anticipate usual A-Day traffic

BY AMANDA PETRESON are trying to leave or get on Community News Editor campus on Saturday should re- member that traffi c on Paul W. While this year might not Bryant Drive has to go through reach the same record levels as detours because of construc- last year’s A-Day, Gina John- tion, so she said drivers who do son, associate vice president not have to go that way should for auxiliary services, said the avoid it. University is still expecting a “Students are used to that, strong crowd. but that’s one thing we’re calling www.baumhowers.comwww.baumhowers.com And those people who will to people’s attention,” Johnson pack the stadium will also said. crowd the Quad and clog the Roads such as Bryant Drive, roadways. Johnson said the plan Campus Drive and University for A-Day traffi c and parking is Boulevard through campus will MOREMORE THANTHAN the same as for game days. be one-way streets after the The biggest difference from game to make it easier for traf- games in the fall is that no one fi c to leave campus. GREAT WINGS! needs a ticket, and students do Unlike during the regular sea- GREAT WINGS! not need an ACTion card to get son, Johnson said some roads into the game, Johnson said. around the stadium will not close during the game. Parking The Quad Unlike in the fall, Johnson said there will be no reserved Last year, Johnson said only parking on Saturday, and visi- about 80 people tailgated be- tors will not have to pay to fore A-Day, compared to 700 park. on average for a game day dur- According to the University, ing the regular season. there will be some reserved She said they are not expect- areas, marked by signs, where ing a larger crowd of tailgaters parking is not allowed, and than last year, but vendors will parking is never allowed on be set up again on the Quad. sidewalks or closed streets. Tailgaters will be able to set Visitors on Saturday can use up on the Quad from 6 p.m. to the Campus Drive deck, the 8 p.m. Friday night and 8 a.m. Coleman Coliseum parking lot to 10 a.m. Saturday morning. and the soccer lot for parking. Relay for Life will be on the DAPHNE MOBILE Permits are required to park in Quad Friday night, but John- 251-625-4695 251-344-2131 these areas during the regular son said it will not be a prob- season. lem, because they will be gone RV parking is available in the before most tailgaters set up. HUNTSVILLE TUSCALOOSA same lots as the regular season, On Saturday, the Walk of 256-881-8878 205-556-5658 and permits cost $75. Fame will begin at 12:15 p.m. to honor 2007 team captains An- HOOVER LEE BRANCH Traffi c toine Caldwell, Darren Mustin and Rashad Johnson at Denny 205-403-7474 205-995-5151 Johnson said people who Chimes. MONTGOMERY 334-271-1831 Visit The Crimson White online at www.cw.ua.edu for A-Day coverage. 4 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE are trying to turn it into a game Florida and Texas brought in the spring. A-DAY day. Football enthusiasts every- more than 40,000. Javier Arenas said he remem- Continued from Page 1 where are trying to make their Recruiting also has an over- bers being more nervous than beloved sport into a spring at- whelming factor on spring anything. One could even say the actual traction. games. The spring game of- “I couldn’t really focus on football work on the fi eld took Even ESPN shows coverage fers coaches and programs the what I had to do because I a backseat to the outpouring of of college’s spring games. chance to get recruits on cam- was just astounded with all the fan support. MSL Sports and Entertain- pus to experience the college people and just worried about If you didn’t know any bet- ment’s Gridiron Bash, slated to atmosphere. coach [Saban] watching me and ter, you might guess it was the bring music stars to 20 schools, “I think it had a signifi cant evaluating me and where I was kind of UA campus atmosphere may have fallen through, but impact on recruiting and the going to be on the depth chart that resembles a fall SEC home Tide athletic offi cials still an- recruiting class that we had after this game,” Arenas said. game. ticipate large numbers at Satur- because a lot of those play- “So it was kind of nerve- All of this for the Tide to day’s game. ers were very impressed and racking for me.” play itself. One of the reasons Alabama excited about seeing that kind But wide receiver Earl Alex- “I can say that the impact attracts so many fans is that of positive energy and support ander embraced the crowd. that the support that our fans parking and admission to the for our team, our program and showed for the A-Day game game are free. what we’re trying to do here,” “My only thought was, ‘Hey, last year and having 92,000 According to bigrednet- Saban said. this is a game, man. Let’s go out people there was probably the work.com, which compiled at- “I think that was helpful in and play,’” he said. most positive thing that’s hap- tendance for last year’s spring a lot of guys having a positive “It was jam-packed so I pened to our program since football games, other schools attitude about the University of thought let’s go out there and I’ve been here,” Saban said. also drew large crowds. Alabama.” have fun.” Of course, it’s diffi cult to Ohio State and Penn State The game even shocked Though Saturday’s atten- deny that spring games aren’t drew more than 70,000 fans, some of the current players, dance is yet to be known, one what they used to be. while Nebraska and Notre who weren’t used to that type thing is certain — never under- Programs across the nation Dame drew more than 50,000. of environment — especially estimate the Bama nation. BAMA CAR WASH (Formerly Car Care II) offers... Hand or tunnel wash & detail • Pick up and Delivery service Wi-fi & waiting area • RV washes available 3115 McFarland Blvd. Next to Haverty’s COLLEGE STUDENT DISCOUNTS WITH STUDENT ID (205) 507-4898 Open 7:30a.m. until

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BY GREG OSTENDORF “I was a little surprised that and see what he had to offer,” ju- been higher in recent years. Sports Reporter the stadium was as full as it was,” nior Clayton Cooper said. “Peo- This year, for the fi rst time, junior Chad Bates said. “I knew ple wanted to see what he could ESPN’s College Gameday will When Alabama expanded that more fans would come out do.” visit a campus in spring. The Bryant-Denny Stadium before than usual because it was [head For a school with a previous crew will set up shop in Gaines- the 2006 season, they knew fans coach] Nick Saban’s fi rst year, attendance record of 51,000, it ville, Fla., for Florida’s annual would pack the 92,138-seat sta- but I didn’t expect it to be that was obvious that fans were ex- spring game. The game itself will dium on game days. many.” cited. The previous record wasn’t be televised on ESPN immedi- What they didn’t know was There was no doubt the main even set in Tuscaloosa, but at Le- ately after the show. fans would fi ll the stadium for reason for the number of fans gion Field in Birmingham. Last year, Florida was second the team’s annual A-Day game that came was the excitement and “The main reason for the re- in the SEC behind Alabama in last spring. anticipation that Saban brought cord crowd was because it’s been spring game attendance, with With a new coach and new with him to Tuscaloosa. a long time since Alabama has 47,500. Only four schools in the hope, fans came from all over to Alabama made him the high- had something to come out for, conference had over 30,000 peo- pack Bryant-Denny, shattering est paid coach in , some type of purpose and prom- ple at their games. the previous spring football game and fans wanted to get a chance ise that the program is back on Now that Saban has been at attendance record of 73,000 set to come see. the rise,” Bates said. Alabama for a year, some believe by Tennessee in 1986. “I wasn’t surprised that the Spring football games, in gen- the stadium will not be full again A year later, some students are stadium was full, because Nick eral, are beginning to get more this year. Still, a large crowd is still having a problem grasping Saban was our new head coach, recognition across the country, expected at Bryant-Denny Satur- it. and everybody wanted to come and attendance at games has day. Specials: WINGS. •Tuesdays 40 cent wings •Thurdays 50 cent boneless wings BEER. •Buy 12 wings and get 6 free for $7.99 SPORTS. ALL THE ESSENTIALS. 2710 McFarland Blvd. East Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: 205-523-0273 6 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE The disappointment from 2007

CW | T.G. Paschal LEFT: Georgiaʼs Mikey Henderson hauls in the game-winning touchdown pass over Lionel Mitchell as the Bulldogs handed the Crimson Tide a 26-23 overtime defeat. MIDDLE: Alabamaʼs DJ Hall juggles a poten- tial touchdown pass, and Auburnʼs Jerraud Powers made the interception to turn the momentum and hand Alabama its sixth-straight loss to the Tigers. RIGHT: Alabamaʼs Matt Caddell just misses a spectacular catch down the left sideline that would have put Alabama in scoring position. The play was initially ruled a catch, but was overturned. LSU won 41-34.

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By Phil Owen clarifi cation, we felt it was in the best For Delivery Call Assistant Entertainment Editor interest of all parties involved to al- low our participating universities and MSL Sports and Entertainment their marketing partners more time 349-1800 announced March 28 that all Grid- to adequately prepare for this event, iron Bash events, which were to take the largest college football celebra- The Perfect A-Day Lunch Stop place at 16 NCAA Division I schools tion in history.” this month, have been canceled. According to a press release, MSL The University’s Gridiron Bash considers this decision to be a post- event was to take place tonight, the ponement. They are looking into night before this year’s A-Day game. the possibility of rescheduling the It would have included a pep rally Gridiron Bash for the regular season in Bryant-Denny Stadium involving this fall or before the spring game in football coaches and players and a 2009. performance by the Million Dollar “Lack of participation by the foot- Band, followed by a live performance ball team would be detrimental to the by country music star Alan Jackson. fi ber and essence of what this event DELECTABLE CHICKEN SUBS PREMIUM STEAK SUBS “While we are very disappointed is all about,” Garrity said. “Our deci- Rg. $5.79 Lg. $7.99 Rg. $7.79 Lg. $9.99 that the Gridiron Bash has been can- sion to cancel the April 11 date was celed, we very much appreciate the reached by our desire to preserve Honey Bourbon Chicken Black Angus Steak on tremendous support of our fans,” the long-term integrity of our brand Mesquite Chicken with Bacon Rosemary Parmesan UA director of athletics Mal Moore and hold true to our promise that Honey Mustard Chicken with Bacon Prime Rib & Peppercorn said in a press release. “Our ticket Gridiron Bash is not a concert, but Chicken Carbonara with Bacon Prime Rib Cheesesteak offi ce will issue ticket refunds very a football celebration with the added Baja Chicken with Bacon soon.” benefi t of a live music element.” INSPIRED TURKEY SUBS Those who have purchased tick- The Gridiron Bash was also a SIGNITURE CLASSIC SUBS Rg. $5.79 Lg. $7.99 ets for the event can receive a refund competition between the participat- Rg. $5.79 Lg. $7.99 from the University’s ticket offi ces ing schools. The competition was to Turkey Ranch & Swiss and www.gridironbash.com. be a combination of the number of Classic Italian Tuscan Turkey on MSL president Shawn Garrity said text message votes each school re- Veggie Rosemary Parmesan they deemed it appropriate to cancel ceived and attendance at the events. The Traditional Turkey Bacon Guacamole the events when several participating The winning school was to receive Classic Club with Bacon schools decided to not allow players a $1 million donation to its general Steakhouse Beef Dip FLATBREAD CHOPPED SALADS to take part due to a possible NCAA scholarship fund, and the fi rst and Honey Bacon Club $5.99 rules violation. second runners up would have re- Raspberry Chipotle Chicken “The issue over player participa- ceived $500,000 and $250,000, re- GOURMENT BREAD BOWLS Roasted Chicken w/ Honey Mustard tion has caused confusion among spectively. $5.49 the schools during this critical win- The University was leading the fan Classic Cobb dow of time in which they had left to voting at the time of the cancellation, Broccoli Cheese Chicken Caesar properly promote the event,” Garrity with 86,575 votes. The second-place Chilli Black & Bleu said in a press release. “With valu- school, Texas A&M, had received Create your own meal for $1.99 more able time being lost awaiting NCAA 29,172 votes. Fountain drink and your choice of Side: Alan Jackson was Chips, Side Salad, Cookie, or Cup of Soup the scheduled act for the Gridiron 1211 University Blvd “ON THE STRIP” Bash event at Byant-Denny We accept Stadium tonight. Jackson’s album, BAMA CASH Good Time, has been atop the Billboard charts for two For catering, consecutive weeks. tailgaiting & sub trays 349-1800 or quiznos.com 8 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE The hunted becomes the hunter Depth issues force former halfback Jimmy Johns to play defense for first time in his career

BY RYAN WRIGHT view, he has to learn gap as- Assistant Sports Editor signments, pass coverages and stunts. Jimmy Johns knows his en- Studying the intricate system emy better than he knows him- since the bowl-season swap, self. he’s had some understandable Eclipsed by a quarterback hang-ups. standing over center, Johns “[Johns] gets confused at can’t see him yet, but he already times,” Saban said after the fi rst knows what he’s thinking. scrimmage in spring training. Spin, juke, stiff arm and cut- “He makes some mental errors. back — a running back’s arse- He made some good plays. But, nal, the go-to moves for a car- on occasion, he’s going to make rier plotting for every yard. a mental error because he doesn’t Those used to be his weap- have the experience that most of ons. the rest of those guys that are Now he’s using them without out there playing.” the ball. He has the mental kinks to iron Johns is the focus in one of out before fall, but every one of his head coach and resident alche- teammates will tell you there is one mist Nick Saban’s experiments thing he doesn’t lack — the killer attempting to convert an aver- instinct every headhunter has. age asset into gold. In this case, Be it senior safety Johnson with a fourth-string halfback and his childlike grin or center Antoine special teams X-factor into a Caldwell with his focused stare, starting linebacker. they all look the same when an- swering a question about Johns’ Johns’ inside information is intensity and head-busting mental- a helpful commodity for wran- ity. gling scat backs to the turf. He’s Looking through the corner of inside the head of every runner their eyes, talking with a subcon- that steps into the backfi eld. scious head nod, they describe a Now he has to get inside his man who plays like he’s trying to own. meld shoulder pads together every “Once he gets everything play. locked down mentally with the “Just a guy who loves to hit,” defense, he’s going be a guy Johnson said. “I mean, we have that’s going to help us next sea- to tell him sometimes to calm son,” Rashad Johnson said. down, because coaches don’t CW/ T. G. Paschal Johns hasn’t played defense want guys getting knocked to the Jimmy Johns works through a drill at linebacker. The long-time running back in college or high school. Aside made the move at the beginning of spring and has progressed nicely. Another from getting used to the new See JOHNS, Page 12 good camp in the fall could land him the starting job. THE CRIMSON WHITE April 11, 2008 9

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Alabama’s stretches out to make a one-handed interception dur- ing spring drills. Jackson, a sophomore, is returning as the only experienced cornerback. CW/ T.G. Paschal 12 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE on special teams. The thinning “Right now the position is JOHNS middle of the defense provided open,” Johns said. “I just have to PROCESS Continued from Page 8 an opening for the senior. try to be the best I can be. I feel Continued from Page 16 The former Mr. Football in a lot of pressure, but it’s a good ground. He’s fi red up 24/7. He the state of Mississippi played thing. Your real character comes stage, but that’s where the wealth of big-time players ends for the plays hard and hustles.” his prep days as a dual-threat out when the pressure is on.” “Jimmy only knows one speed, Tide at linebacker. quarterback. He won a high Charlie Higginbotham and Jimmy Johns made the move and that’s full speed,” Caldwell school state championship as a Corey Reamer are applying the said. to linebacker and, physically, gunslinger and spent a couple of pressure for now. Both are an- Before the fi rst scrimmage, Johns can contribute. Still, it’s years high on the Alabama run- gling with Johns for the starting Johns talked about the practice a completely new position for tackling policy. ning back depth chart. position. But when the No. 1 re- Johns and his learning of a com- “Thud, wrap up and let the Despite the irregularity of it cruiting class in the nation arrives plex system will have to improve all, Johns said the new defensive on campus in the fall, there’s no for him to settle in at that spot. guy go,” he said in a dull, bored Again, it’s hard to see freshmen tone. position fi ts his personality best. telling whose spot is safe. “I’ve always been an offensive As a result, Saban said he like , , A smile slipped across his face Don’ta Hightower or Courtney when asked about the anticipa- type of person and offensive thinks it’s “important” to know player,” Johns said. “I love [play- if Johns can play defensive end Upshaw not making a push for tion of the fi rst scrimmage, the immediate playing time this fall. fi rst full-contact day since the ing linebacker]. It’s somewhere by the end of spring practice. Depth, depth, depth: The Colorado game. I can really just be me. Just fl y Johns will feel his growing freshmen class will go a long “Saturday we’re looking to around and have fun.” pains through the fall season, and way to solve the depth issue, but have fun,” Johns said. “We’ll re- Johns said he was happy Sa- some of them may be visible on Alabama is lacking quality depth ally see what it’s really about Sat- ban had the chance to make the A-Day. But no-nonsense players at almost every position at this urday.” move early. He benefi ted from a like Johnson and Rolando Mc- point. Last season Saban talked about few weeks of tutelage under se- Clain make sure he and others Added depth by the class will getting the most talent on the fi eld nior-leader Darren Mustin. know when they slip up. bring increased competition, at all times. He struggled to fi nd Johns has been practicing at “You have to take it like grow- which should maximize effort a spot for Johns, who dropped the Will and Money lineback- ing up,” Johns said. “Everyday I and abilities, but there’s no way out of the halfback rotation and er. He jumped in weight from get older. I think everybody will to know how much the thinnest spent most of his playing time roughly 225 pounds to 240. know when I’ve learned it.” positions will suffer this fall.

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CW/ Alex Gilbert LEFT: Running back Roy Upchurch runs through an agility drill at spring practice. MIDDLE: New offensive coordinator Jim McElwain watches his team practice. McElwain came to Alabama from Fresno State. RIGHT: John Parker Wilson takes a snap under center as the offensive line is in position.

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Look For Team Members Wearing Green Shirts At Each Gate 14 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE On the defense

CW/ Alex Gilbert LEFT: Linebacker Jimmy Johns runs through a drill at his new position. MIDDLE: Sam Burnthall jumps up to grab an inteception during defensive backs drills. RIGHT: Junior cornerback (left) runs through a tackling drill wth another defensive back.

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The Tide will win the three The rough end of the SEC tucky wedged in the middle, Ala- One, the team will explode for punching bag games it’s sup- schedule comes on the road bama will be 6-5 heading into the a 10-win season, and I’ll be dead posed to, though Western Ken- against Georgia, Tennessee and Iron Bowl. As a fellow reporter wrong. We’ll both laugh at me tucky will prove scrappy. LSU. Winning one of those said after last year’s loss, “There but forget quickly in our goofy, The Mississippi teams aren’t three would be a success. are fi rst graders who haven’t childlike bliss. relevant. Both games are at Georgia peaked late last sea- been alive to see the Tide beat Two, we’ll fi nish worse than home, and Alabama will dispatch son as a possible national title Auburn.” I’m betting on inevi- 7-5, which would mean I was that dinky “two-game streak” contender, and LSU won’t have tability and the off-chance that right to underestimate the team. State fans are lording over Tide a Miami-Heat fall from grace, some player, somewhere on the I won’t gloat about that. fans. regardless of how tapped the roster is as agitated about the Or third, I’ll be dead right, at After getting thumped by Tex- Saban recruit stockpile is. one-sided state of this rivalry as least record-wise, and I will gloat as, Bobby Petrino and McFad- That leaves Tennessee, who I am. about that. den-less Arkansas will still show Alabama surprisingly steam- There you have it. Alabama Good. I made it through an up in what has become a highly rolled last season at Bryant- will beat Auburn, (which is pret- entire prediction column without competitive game in recent years. Denny. The Rocky Top era ty much all that matters right using the word prognosticate. Check out Monday’s edition of The Crimson White for complete coverage from A-Day. 16 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE The process is still in progress Alabama fans don’t want to emerge into big-time contribu- devoid of big-play threats. Saban hear it, but it’s going to take a tors this fall or how big the im- said has shown little more time. After pact of the incoming freshman spurts of big-play ability at the It’s another season for Crim- Further class will be on the 2008 season, receiver position. There isn’t son Tide football, and it’s proba- Review there are areas that must be ad- much returning talent at wide- bly another where fans’ patience dressed for the Tide to show suc- out, and the ones that are com- will be tested. cess. ing back are mostly possession Head coach Nick Saban’s pro- Here are some of those areas. receivers. cess, at this point, is still just that Playmakers: Right now, Alabama That being said, it’s hard to see — a process. While the good re- Dan Sellers currently has one playmaker on how freshmen , Bur- sults that spin off Saban’s system [email protected] offense and one on special teams. ton Scott and others won’t be are sure to happen, there is still an answer this fall. Terry Grant displayed big-play thrust into a playmaking role im- a lot of work left to accomplish Lying in the way of the per- ability at times last season, but mediately. before the program can make the sonnel issues, such as depth, Ala- he struggled to stay healthy. If Linebackers: If medical prob- move from mediocrity to the up- bama must battle with a semi- he can remain healthy through lems end the career of Ezekial per echelon of the toughest con- new offensive system with Jim the season, he could provide a Knight and Prince Hall’s indefi - ference in college football. McElwain at the helm. Also, a much-needed spark. nite suspension endures much It’s going to be a season where vaunted schedule awaits the Tide. Javier Arenas is, without a longer, Alabama will have to re- progress cannot necessarily be Road trips to Georgia, Arkansas, doubt, the biggest playmaker on place four experienced lineback- judged in the win-loss column. Tennessee and LSU, as well as a the team as a return specialist. He ers. The team has a lot of question neutral site game with Clemson, will likely see an increased role at Rolando McClain is a super- marks on both sides of the ball will test the Tide all season. cornerback and could emerge as star waiting to shine on the big — some that may be easily an- Though no one can accurate- a playmaker on defense. swered, some that may not fi nd ly predict the sleepers that will Aside from that, the Tide is See PROCESS, Page 12

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Pantone 293C R 251.445.0364 THE CRIMSON WHITE April 11, 2008 17 That’s why they play the games Preseason predictions are stu- next season. I promise it’s ac- something learned by experi- pid. curate. (Hey, if baseball analysts ence. At least the specifi c ones are. can chalk the Atlanta Braves in as Finally, I fi gure the absence of Every year, TV talking heads World Series favorites fi ve games the Marcus Carter shoulder whiff will try and sell you on specifi c The into a 162 game season, I can might equal an extra win in and of traits that make a team champi- Wright Up take a stab at next semester). itself. onship worthy — like third-quar- At its core, the team still has With a grueling road schedule, ter red-zone defense, the size of the personnel that posted a 13- the Tide will fi nish 7-5, and here’s the junior class and bobble head 13 record over the last two years. how it will go down. giveaways. Just like last year, depth is the Alabama will drop the season- And every year, teams have a problem. Hence, Jimmy Johns opener to Clemson by double funny way of making sports ana- Ryan Wright and Baron Huber moving from digits. If it was later in the season, lysts look like idiots. backfi eld to linebacker. even October, they would have a For instance, the New Eng- [email protected] There is some upside howev- much better chance. But the most land Patriots, who could never to reveal the sham that is the ca- er. progress is made from week one to fi nish the regular season unde- reer of a sports analyst. The No. 1 recruiting class in week two, and a few jittery fresh- feated in the modern era. Or the At best, predictions are con- the nation has yet to step foot man won’t make the difference. New York Giants, a team that versation starters. At worst, they on campus. Some of the incom- And, of course, there’s Alabama’s barely made it to the playoffs are space fi llers in a ridiculous ing freshman will play signifi cant problem with Tigers. behind a coach on the hot seat 24-page spring scrimmage pre- time. They have to. There will be no ULM. Nick and an oft-criticized quarterback, view. Alabama didn’t lose a single Saban had an embarrassing loss who could then never upend the All that being said, read on game by more than seven points at LSU, and he’s had one here. neighboring Goliath. if you want to know how your last year. They didn’t know how It’s as if teams are conspiring beloved Crimson Tide will fair to go for the jugular, and that’s See PREDICTION, Page 15

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Tide signing class is the number of jumbo ath- dug out a gem with Star Jackson before the rest A year later, Saban made the most of his fi rst full letes that project on either side of the ball. of the country caught on,” Watts said. year on the job by leading Alabama to one of its best Burton Scott is one of the top athletes in the “Star is another of those kids whose upside is recruiting classes in school history. country and could project at wide receiver or huge. He’s only played three years and he went With two big commitments from National Top could be an elite cornerback at the college level. a long way in that short time. This year he was 50 recruits Julio Jones and Jerrell Harris on Signing “Versatility is what makes Scott so special,” invited to the Elite 11 camp, which consisted of Day, Saban and the Crimson Tide captured the na- Watts said. “He could project at numerous po- the best quarterbacks in the country.” tional championship in recruiting. sitions and on either side of the ball. He’s just Tuscaloosa’s could also get a “They’re not only the kind of football players that one of those guys who physically are ready to shot to compete at the quarterback position. we want, but we feel like we got really quality people contribute on the college level and he’s hungry to who have been in successful programs and compet- be great. I would be surprised if he didn’t have a Running back: Three (4-star Mark Ingram, ed at a high level and are great competitors,” Saban great career.” 3-star Ivan Matchett, said of the entire class. “We got some guys that have Watts said St. Paul’s star Mark Barron could 3-star Jermaine Preyear) leadership qualities which are going to be the corner- have been ranked as the best player in the state based solely on his performance on the fi eld as a Although Saban has a stable of running stone of building the future of this program.” senior. Barron starred as a running back and wide backs returning for the 2008 season, he signed BamaOnLine.com recruiting editor Tim Watts receiver for the Class 5A state champs, but most three true running backs and another athlete has analyzed recruiting for nine years, and he said this believe his collegiate and professional future is on that could project in the backfi eld. class blows any previous Tide class out of the water. the defensive side of the ball. Mark Ingram, a Michigan native, pledged to “I think you have to go back a ways to fi nd any- Barron wreaked havoc on opponents as a se- Alabama one day before signing day to fi nalize thing close,” Watts said. “Nothing in recent memory nior after a move to linebacker, including one the backfi eld. Mobile backs Ivan Matchett and compares, especially when considering there are im- game where he made 14 consecutive tackles. Jermaine Preyear were two of the fi rst players pact players at almost every position and several guys However, Barron’s tremendous ball skills make to jump on board. who are expected to be NFL prospects when their him a prime candidate for safety. Chris Jordan and Mark Barron could also college careers are over. This class stands out because Norcross (Ga.) jumbo athlete Devonta Bolton project at running back. it is so complete at every position.” could project at several different positions on of- Alabama made a stand inside its own borders, fense or defense. He has the size to line up at tight Wide receiver: Four (5-star Julio Jones, signing 19 prospects from Alabama. However, Ala- end, and the speed and agility to play wide receiv- 4-star Melvin Ray, 4-star Destin Hood and bama went into surrounding states to pull out supe- er. He could also play at linebacker or safety. 3-star Chris Jackson) rior talent. At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, and 4.4 40-yard dash, The Tennessee trio of 4-stars , Chris Brentwood (Tenn.) star Chris Jordan will likely The gem of the signing class came late on Jordan and Don’ta Hightower boosted Alabama’s see his collegiate playing time as a running back signing day morning when Julio Jones pledged class and crippled Tennessee. or at linebacker. to Alabama. A consensus top-5 player in the na- Alabama was able to pull the No. 2 player out tion, Jones will vie for immediate playing time. of the state of Mississippi (Alonzo Lawrence), and Quarterback: Two (4-star Star Jackson and Joining Jones in the receiver corps will be jumbo athlete Devonta Bolton was one of the top 3-star Brad Smelley) Tallahassee, Fla., star Melvin Ray and Mobile’s players out of Georgia. Destin Hood. Both Ray and Hood are expected The Tide also pulled the top quarterback in the Nick Saban went into the state of Florida and to be considered as high draft picks in the MLB Southeast out of Florida in Star Jackson. picked a star to be his quarterback of the future. draft. Here’s a breakdown of the Tide’s class by posi- Star Jackson saw his stock explode after an invite tion: to the Elite 11 quarterback camp last summer. See RECRUITS, Page 19 THE CRIMSON WHITE April 11, 2008 19 commitment of the 2008 class last RECRUITS February. He could also play at tight Continued from Page 18 end. Chris Jackson, a long time Geor- Glenn Harbin, who is 6-foot-6 gia Tech commitment, switched his like Williams, committed to Alabama commitment in December when in late January. Harbin has as much Chan Gailey was fi red. Jackson grad- upside as anyone in the nation. uated in December, so he is already on campus. Linebacker: Three (4-star Jerrell Harris, 4-star Don’ta Hightower Offensive line: Three (5-star Tyler and 4-star ) Love, 4-star Barrett Jones and 4-star John Michael Boswell) Jerrell Harris, who committed on Signing Day, is the stud of the de- As with the other offensive posi- fensive class. He is ranked the No. 34 tions, the signing class fi lled all pos- player in the country and could see sible needs along the offensive line. immediate playing time at the line- It started with Northport’s John backer position. Michael Boswell, who committed “Jerrell was huge because line- after A-Day. With a 6-foot-6 frame, backer was such a need area for Ala- www.baumhowers.comwww.baumhowers.com Boswell could play tackle, but he also bama this year and Harris was one could play guard. of the best in the country,” Watts Alabama’s biggest commitment said. “It solidifi ed the Tide’s in-state came during the summer when 6- dominance also. He’s a good one that foot-7, 285-pound tackle Tyler Love could get out there and have a great MORE THAN true freshman season.” MORE THAN pledged to play for the Tide. “A lot of the attention surrounding Adding to the depth at linebacker Love gets lost because he was con- is Courtney Upshaw, who committed sidered an Alabama lock the whole to the Tide early in the process. GREAT WINGS! Also, Tennessee star Don’ta High- GREAT WINGS! time,” Watts said. “But at 6-foot-7, 285-pounds he has NFL fi rst-round tower is a stud middle linebacker potential and he is still fi guring out prospect that will add to the talent how to get better. He’s made a lot of pool. improvement the last couple of years and I expect that to continue.” Cornerback: Two (4-star Alonzo Barrett Jones, whose dad played Lawrence and 4-star Robby basketball at Alabama, was also con- Green) sidered an Alabama lock for much of the recruiting process. Jones has the Alabama received the stud of its frame to play tackle, but could slide defensive back class when Alonzo inside and play guard. Jones even Lawrence, the No. 35 player in the starred at center in the Army All- country, committed on a week before American game. signing day. Lawrence made a name for him- Defensive tackle: Five (4-star self during the Alabama-Mississippi Kerry Murphy, 3-star Damion All-Star game by shutting down Mis- Square, 3-star , 3- sissippi receiver DeAndre Brown star Undra Billingsley and 3-star during practices and Julio Jones dur- Marcel Dareus) ing the game. Louisiana star Robby Green de- The defensive front was one of cided in December that he wanted to the biggest priorities for Saban and play for Saban. DAPHNE MOBILE staff. Kerry Murphy re-signed from a 251-625-4695 251-344-2131 year at Hargrave Military and can be Safety: Two (4-star Robert Lester a plug in the middle. and 2-star Wesley Neighbors) Alabama also got a commitment HUNTSVILLE TUSCALOOSA from Terrence Cody, a 395-pound Robert Lester was overshadowed 256-881-8878 205-556-5658 run-plugger from Mississippi Gulf for much of his career by superstar Coast Community College. teammate Julio Jones, but Lester is a tall, rangy safety that can lay the lum- HOOVER LEE BRANCH Defensive end: Three (4-star ber. 205-403-7474 205-995-5151 Glenn Harbin, 4-star Michael Wesley Neighbors is a Tide legacy. Williams and 4-star Brandon His dad Wesley and grandfather, Bil- MONTGOMERY Lewis) ly, were All-Americans for the Tide. 334-271-1831 Just as important as the tackle Kicker: One (2-star Corey Smith.) position, Alabama loaded up at de- fensive end as well. A trio of 4-stars Corey Smith, is a versatile kicker will boost the talent and depth at the prospect from West Virginia. Smith position. could see time as a place kicker, kick Michael Williams was the fi rst off man and at punter. 20 April 11, 2008 THE CRIMSON WHITE Alabama Crimson Tide 2007 Season Alabama Crimson Tide 2008 Season Sept. 1 vs. W. Carolina W, 52-6 Aug. 30 vs. Clemson (at Georgia Dome) Sept. 8 at Vanderbilt W, 24-10 Sept. 6 vs. Tulane Sept. 15 vs. Arkansas W, 41-38 Sept. 13 vs. Western Kentucky Sept. 22 vs. Georgia L, 23-26 (OT) Sept. 20 at Arkansas Sept. 29 at Florida State L, 14-21 Sept. 27 at Georgia Oct. 6 vs. Houston W, 30-24 Oct. 4 vs. Kentucky Oct. 13 at Mississippi W, 27-24 Oct. 20 vs. Tennessee W, 41-17 Oct. 18 vs. Ole Miss Nov. 3 vs. LSU L, 34-41 Oct. 25 at Tennessee Nov. 10 at Miss. State L, 12-17 Nov. 1 vs. Arkansas State (Homecoming) Nov. 17 vs. LA-Monroe L, 14-21 Nov. 8 at LSU Nov. 24 at Auburn L, 10-17 Nov. 15 vs. Mississippi State Dec. 30 vs. Colorado W, 30-24 Nov. 29 vs. Auburn (Independence Bowl)

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