Aight.... what's up, yo? It's bowl time, people, and the Tide is back in action after a 2-yr layoff. We're back in the music city bowl this year playing the Minnesota Gophers, which is a very good running team. Let's take a look at what's Bama's going to have to do to win this game...

Bama's D will come out strong, but with a little rust. Hey, it just happens. Minnesota will come out running the ball and will throw a little. The Gophers have 2 1000-yd rushers this year, so they will be tough. Bama will have to be careful when putting 8 guys in the box so we don't get burned by the deep ball. Our corners are up for the challenge though.

The Bama defensive line will come to play though - don't expect to see a 200-yd rushing day by Minnesota. They will likely get over 100, maybe over 150, but they won't run over us for long. See, they haven't played a defense quite like Bama's this year, so they will be in for a rude awakening.

On the other side of the ball, Bama's game plan is ALLLLL hosed up, let me tell ya. This game will be on the shoulders of Pennington and Aaron Johns. If Pennington can make good throws against the 112th ranked passing defense in the country, we'll be alright. Johns will likely make his first start of his true freshman career in place of the injured Ken Darby. Darby is still recovering and will play in the bowl game, but in special situations only. Johns should get the bulk of the load. This poses a big question mark - can Johns handle the BULK of the load?? He obviously hasn't been tested yet, but the coaches are high on him, so we should feel good. Now if anything happens to Johns, then REDSHIRT freshman Theo Sanders or Josh Smith will likely be his backup which sucks. I would hate for Theo to sit out the entire year and JUST play in the bowl game and lose this entire year. It could/might happen, but I sincerely hope that the coaches don't make that decision. We're short enough on scholarships as it it - 3 years from now, we're going to need Theo possibly, so let's not waste him at this point. Josh Smith can handle the load - put him in, coach.

And it now appears that Britt will start at Left Guard and David Cavan will also get some playing time after being questionable the last few weeks. He had to sit out Bama's previous 2-3 games due to injury. Bo Freelend will also play, but will play slightly hurt. His kneecap was dislocated... repaired, and now he says it actually hurts more when he walks rather than when he punts, so that's good.

So we're just a "hobbling Bama" coming into this bowl season - good thing we're not playing for the national championship or we'd be hurting something fierce right now. But I do look for a lot of passing sets in this game. With Minnesota's passing defense being one of the lowest in the coutry, we might actually get a 200-300 yard performance out of Pennington if he can get hot quickly. Our WR's KNOW that this game is on them. Without them, Johns won't be able to get going and have a good rushing game. If we're one-dimensional with a first-time starting RB, we're in trouble, Tide Country. Period.

So we're just two 6-5 teams trying to get to 7-5 instead of 6-6. 7-5 just sounds so much better. Well, thank goodness that our injuries don't really flow over to the defensive side of the ball, because our guys are out for blood. The last thing in our team's mind is the loss to Auburn when we KNOW we could have won the game. Minnesota will score - probably on the first drive while the "rusty" Bama D feels them out. But after that 1st/2nd drive, look for the Tide defense to come alive and make some plays - whether it's a fumble, sack, or interception, they will HAVE to make some plays that affect the outcome of the game - that means defensive points and turnovers. Whoever wins the turnover battle should win this game. Also, if Bama can have success in the passing game, Johns could have a big day. I look for Johns to get over 100 yards, and Pennington should get 1-2 TD passes on the day - but overall, I look for a low-scoring game especially since that's what the Tide's all about these days. No Croyle, no Darby, no Hudson, no Castille, no Johnston (TE), hobbling Freelend, hobbling Britt, and a 5th/6th string tailback behind Johns that hasn't played a down of college football in his life (Sanders).

Unless the Bama D can pull us though, it could be a long game for the Tide. 3-and-outs on Bama's offense are NOT an option - all that's going to do is tire out our defense. And with as good a running team as Minnesota is, that's the LAST thing our defense needs... to get worn out by long sustained running drives. Roll Tide Roll Tide.... Roll it down the field, baby!!

As for my prediction, it's a toss-up really. Too many unknowns. We have one of the best (yes, best) FG kickers in the country in Brian Bostick, so we have the upper hand there... the coaches at this point might be on an even keel. Minnesota's offense has the upper hand by far, but Bama's Defense has a huge upper hand as well. Since that makes it so close, you have guess that a defense will win you a championship. Well, in our case, it'll be winning a bowl game, but by the slimmest of margins if at all. 3-and-outs for Bama's offense will be the key - period. That and turnovers - can Johns hang on to the ball? We shall see, Tide Country. We shall see.

Congrats to Wesley Britt and Todd Bates for being voted permanent captains for the 2004 Crimson Tide football team. Roll Tide!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 24 - MINNESOTA 23

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: HUGE fumble by Minnesota not called probably would have swayed the outcome of this game. Instant Replay is DEFINITELY needed in college football, people. Minnesota stuck the running game to the Tide, but our offense not sustaining drives didn't help us. Twice, Pennington had open men downfield to score TDs (Brown on the long throw, and Prothro on the last drive) and failed to connect. Then on 4th down, he makes another rookie mistake and throws it out-of-bounds and not even far enough to get a first down. By now, he should know better... and I'm too pissed off right now to talk about it. I'll have to cool off first. But Bama made a bowl which is good - but definitely should have been a W in my book.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 16 - MINNESOTA 20

BAMA vs #2 AUBURN PREDICTION

Aight. Let's face it. Bama's a huge underdog at only a modest 10 points. Yeah, you can throw out the statbook blah blah blah. I have checked the crystal ball too many times on this one, talked to the 8-ball, walked under my lucky horseshoe, and have a lucky rabbit's foot chained to my wrist..... all that won't help the Tide beat Auburn on Saturday unfortunately. It's not that we CAN'T beat Auburn - it's just that we won't. They have a completely healthy team with a diverse offense and a nation's best 9.3 points per game allowed. Sure we sported the #1 Defense in the country, but that's talking about yards. In my opinion, the best defense in the country is the defense that allows the fewest points because it really doesn't matter how many yards you rack up, right? What matters is the scoreboard. Because another offense can get 600 yards off offense and turn the ball over near the goal line nearly every time or miss field goals, etc... the scoreboard is the only thing that matters and they have been shutting down offenses all year long, not to mention #5 Georgia last weekend, and they have a healthy QB and a more potent offense than Bama.

Basically, it doesn't look good, Tidefans. As much as I'd like to say Bama will win, it just won't happen. Bama's defense will start strong, that's a given. They will play with all the guts and determination one could possibly ask for. But the bottom line is that Auburn will stop Darby in his tracks and we're going to either see plenty of 3-and-outs or we'll see some turnovers on 3rd down when Pennington tries to throw the football. The offense will just be too predictable because Auburn's defense will control the game against us. Then our tired defense will come out on the field and they are going to pound us and pound us and pound us some more. Even with our semi-deep rotation at DL/LB, it's going to be very difficult to stop Auburn's unpredictable offense. They have a QB that can scramble, and 2 RB's that can run with the best of them. Remember last year? The first play... and many plays after that? Sure this is a better defense for the Tide, but those guys are better too... and they have more weapons than last year.

So look for Auburn to NOT score on their first possession Saturday. Things will start out a little slow as AU feels out Bama a little... but late in the 1st and early in the 2nd, watch out... Auburn's going to strike, and Bama just better hope we can get points via our defense and/or special teams. Darby won't be able to do it all - Prothro, Pennington, Brown and company will HAVE to do something in order for Bama to win or it's lights out. Period.

Then as Bama trails by at least 10+ at halftime, Auburn will tally up a few more points in the 2nd half to make a statement to the BCS. 10 point underdog? How is it only 10? I know we have a good defense, but they will get tired mainly because of our weak offense that won't be able to move the ball. This could get ugly... Bryant-Denny will get 1/2 empty by the 4th quarter as the fair weather fans decide to leave, and AU walks out of there still undefeated in Bryant-Denny Stadium. It sucks like a Ho I tell ya, but there's just no if's, and's, or but's. AU doesn't have enough weaknesses for Bama to win, plus Bama is so banged up right now, it will take an absolute miracle to pull out the win. Here's hoping they do though........ ROLL TIDE! Oh, Brodie, get well soon... we need you next year and bad!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 3 - AUBURN 34

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: It was obviously closer than we thought though the game, in the 2nd half really was all Auburn as they just slowly put us away. We got a late TD to make it close due to their prevent defense.... but the onsides kick recovered by AU sealed the deal. I said we'd have to play a perfect game (and then some) and we didn't do that. We couldn't afford even one mistake and we made a few... next year, watch out if Brodie can stay healthy! ROLL TIDE
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 13 - AUBURN 21

BAMA vs #17 L.S.U. PREDICTION

Wow! Bama is now bowl eligible and looks to go to a better bowl by beating LSU and/or Auburn these next 2 weekends. It's a tough road, but with Bama's great defense, we might just pull it off if we can get a little luck here and there on offense. This week poses a decent threat, but nothing like we'll face next week against Auburn. LSU has the #4 defense in the country and uses a 2-QB system on offense. They definitely spread you out a lot so it will be imperative that the Tide tackle well and that the coaches don't over-blitz LSU.

For Bama, the offense is going to ride Ken Darby as long as humanly possible. I figured that by now, since Brodie's injury, that teams would definitely shut down the Bama running game. I mean, you KNOW we're going to run the ball. We are 4th from the bottom of the NCAA in passing yards per game - so you KNOW Darby's going to come at you. But teams STILL couldn't slow us down. That was then... this is now. LSU's #4 ranking on Defense comes by having a serious run-stopping defense. UT didn't even come close to what we'll face on Saturday, and that worries me because we honestly haven't been consistent enough in the passing game to keep our offense balanced. We might have to force a few passes on Saturday as LSU will set out to stop the run and be very successful at times. Saban's not stupid. He knows we run, and he knows Pennington can't pass very well. What to do..... what to do. Ok, shut down Darby and you beat Bama.

For Bama we need to play field position and time of possession more than anything. LSU has only had a drive of more than 80 yards one time this year. About 1/2 of their scoring drives this year have come inside the opponent 40 yard line. Credit the special teams and strong defense for that. But if Bama can pin them deep, it will be hard for them to drive the length of the field on our defense on most of their drives. Bama's just that good on defense as well. So if Bama can shut down the run and contain the QB, which we have had some problems with, we could pull out a win in Tiger Stadium. The pass defense of Bama has been great too, so hopefully we can get a pick or two and get the crowd out of the game early like 2 years ago.

This game is so hard to call for many reasons. LSU is the defending national champ - but does that REALLY have anything to do with THIS YEAR'S TEAM? No. The biggest weapons of the 2003 team are gone except for Skyler Green (punt returns). Even their quick RB who was MVP of the SECC game and the bowl has been demoted to 3rd string due to fumblitus. LSU isn't far behind Bama in defense totals, but they are better in the passing game. LSU loses in death valley to Bama more than they win, yet it's still a home game for them, so it will be very loud. LSU's defense is quick - and Saban is smart enough to know what to do to shut down Bama..... shut down the running game. With all of this said, I think it will be a defensive struggle for most of the game. Turnovers will be HUUUUUGE in this game as Bama is +5 and LSU is -7. Whoever wins the turnover battle will win this game, period. And based on the fact that Bama has more in 'plus' numbers doesn't sit well though. If LSU shuts down Bama's running game, Pennington will be forced to throw more, which means LSU might play a bit of zone coverage and get more pickoffs. With the crowd into the game, and with our still-inexperienced players, they could get rattled and let the game slip away.

Now don't get me wrong - Bama won't give up, but if we get down early and often, it might be hard to come back, as Bama doesn't have the weapons on offense to make big comebacks, mainly due to QB play. Also, Shula STILL doesn't have a real signature win in my opinion. Beating Croom/MSU last week in my mind, isn't really a signature win in terms of beating a good team. We beat a rival coach that played at Alabama and that was passed up on the Alabama job last year. This is a HUGE game for the Tide - and the guys know it. They will fight like crazy to win this game and it will be close.

So with the prediction, I go this way.... like I said before - LSU is THE most physical team we'll play up to this point. UT was nothing. Bama MUST be able to run the ball in order to have some success. Whether it's Prothro behind center or what, we HAVE to run the ball to win. Pennington can't win the game on his own as he still hasn't proven he can be consistently good. Though he did complete a 40-yard 'bomb' last week, and made some key completions, he still threw 2 interceptions. The bomb wasn't much on target either as Brown had to come back for the ball, so this is a tough call. The visitors usually win this game, but LSU has more talent and fewer injuries. Bama's main injuries include Britt (gametime decision), Peprah (same), Cavan (out), and obviously Castille/Croyle. We are severly banged up right now. Carlos Andrews might get the start in the secondary this week if Peprah can't go. Capps may play or start in place of Britt if he can't play through the pain. And with LSU's blitzing defense and our inability to complete the pass, it makes for a long day if we don't pick up blocks and complete passes to slow down the rush. That's the only way K.D. will have a chance. Will we have a chance? Of course we do. But LSU has just as good of a chance as depth is getting to be a problem in places.

I think Bama and LSU are neck in neck at the half, then Bama's going to stick it to LSU's offense in the 2nd half.... thing is, LSU's going to stick it to us too. I just hope (knock on wood) that Darby doesn't get hurt. Johns is a capable back, but I don't know if he'd be able to handle the load on the road... hmmmmmmm.......... this is the hardest pick all year especially with LSU's lofty and over-rated-ness. They are not a #17 team. Heck, they barely beat Troy State and Vanderbilt... the only common opponent was MSU and they beat them 51-0, but that was prior to MSU's 'awakening'... so I call it like this.... After really pondering over this for a while, here's what happens: Bama comes to play in the trenches and that's where the difference will be - that and the turnover margin. That's the difference in the game right there. LSU will run a little, but will be forced to throw more and that's where Bama's D helps the Offense get into the end zone. Randall and Russell will make some plays, and LSU will score, but with this being the best defense they will play all year, I can see us coming out of Baton Rouge with a win this year. Somehow, some way, something has to go Bama's way to get Shula that signature win and for these players to go to a better bowl than the Independence Bowl. This game could very well go into overtime, but if not, look for the Tide to pull out a squeaker as Bostick could be the difference maker. TDs will be hard to come by, but Bama wins in the end in a nailbiter. Defense holds LSU in the end - by a hair.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 16 - L.S.U. 13

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: We finally played a team with a good defense and our offense was exposed. Darby ran against a stacked DL and still got 100+ yards - he's for real. With Aaron Johns looking 'iffy' on his one carry, K.D. had to carry the load the entire night. Minus the long throw to Caddell, Pennington threw for a mere 66 yards. Not good enough to beat the #4 ranked defense in the country. It's obvious injuries have plagued this team, especially at the QB position, so hats off to Shula for using what players he DOES have. Bad no-call (def. pass interference) in end zone in 3rd Q would have changed the momentum and outcome of the game in a huge way & my PREDICTION might have been a little more accurate... but that's just another 'what-if' to add to our already long list this season. We'll need to play 500% better if we want to beat Auburn next week.... let's get to it, Bama offense! We have to find better ways to move the ball & score if we expect to win next week.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 10 - L.S.U. 26

BAMA vs MISSISSIPPI STATE PREDICTION

This week is easy. No wood to knock on. This is Mississippi State in Bryant-Denny Stadium. This is a win, period. (ok, I'll knock on wood now...) But seriously, MSU and Bama are in the bottom of the league in passing, but Bama is tops in the league in rushing and tops in the nation in defense. It's really a no-brainer. MSU has their QB back, but it won't matter. Bama will force State to throw the ball - and with Bama's #1 rated pass defense (and defense overall), MSU doesn't have much of a chance unless Pennington gets hurt. Bama will feed Darby the ball probably about 70% of the offensive snaps. Don't look for a lot of passing as the running game will flourish.

Look for Bama's special teams to do ok, but nothing much on kickoff returns. MSU has to actually score to kickoff more than once in the game, and that may not happen. I have a feeling that Bama's offensive line is going to blow MSU out of the water and Darby could end up having a 200+ rushing yards day. It's very possible. Plus, throw in the fact that Bama just doesn't allow many points (#9 in the country), Miss. St. is going to have to run the ball to win, and it just won't happen. Even with the good game against UF, it still doesn't mean squat. The UF defense isn't Alabama. And MSU isn't playing at home. Look for a 3-TD spread by the time this one is overwith, possibly more. It could get ugly as Bama will try to spread the field and get the ball to Keith Brown and Prothro... Darby will have a hayday tomorrow.

Not much else to say. Bama gets the 'W' and qualifies for a bowl game. From here, each win gets us to one bowl game better each week. Three wins to finish the season could get us in the Cotton Bowl, which would be nice - it's right down the road from where I live.... now THAT'S nice. Don't look back, Tide - just keep moving forward and pound that ball in the end zone! MSU's just lucky Brodie/Hudson/Castille are all on the sideline or this could get REAL ugly, fast... instead, it's a regular semi-beating. ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 31 - MISSISSIPPI STATE 7

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Darby was awesome. Bostick was awesome. The Defense gave up some yards and 14 points, but overall, dominated. Pennington still needs improvement (nothing new) and LeRon McClain did well too. Hey Cavan even caught a pass. Cool. Good win, Tide. Next 2 will be tough ones though... I figured we might give up one fluke TD, but not two. Anyway, Bamadog is now 7-2 on predictions this year...
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 30 - MISSISSIPPI STATE 14

BAMA vs #11 TENNESSEE PREDICTION

It's now the 3rd...er, um... 4th Saturday in October and you know what that means? It's Bama vs Tennessee time. This year the game is in Knoxville and let me tell you, IT'S GOING TO BE L-O-U-D! This might be the loudest Neyland Stadium has ever been especially with all of the off-season mess between the 2 schools. UT comes into the game with only one less loss than the Crimson Tide. UT sports a 5-1 record, a national ranking of #11, and now a BCS ranking of #9 in the country. Alabama is right on the edge of getting into the top 25 and comes in with a 5-2 record and a 2-game winning streak. What does it all mean? Absolutely nothing. What will happen is, our pads are going to hit their pads and v/versa, and whoever has the most heart will win this game, period. Bama obviously gets into the top 25 with a win, and an assured bowl game on top of that.

On the UT offensive side of the ball, Eric Ainge starts for the vols and he is a freshman. 18 years old. He has already played in the big games this year - UGA, UF, and Auburn. They don't get much bigger - now Alabama comes to town for one of the bigest rivalries in the country. UT's offense can explode at any given moment, BUT the one thing Bamafans have to hope for, is that the one time that UT played a decent defense, they got blown out - yeah, Auburn. That's the one blemish on their record, else they'd probably be sitting at #3 in the BCS instead of Auburn. Guess what? Bama has one of the top-rated defenses in the country, and yes, even better than that cow college. But Auburn also has a good offense that's balanced this year, something the Tide lacks unfortunately.

The Bama defense ranks #3 in the country, though playing some cupcake teams, so let's not get to high on the D just yet. This is our first REAL test. We have the #1 pass defense in the country as well. Our run defense has been solid overall, so that really leaves special teams and Bama's offense vs UT's defense the biggest key of the game. Now, Bama's going to run the ball as much as possible. It's just that simple - we can't pass the ball. Sure we COULD have passed more in those games, but Shula went with what was working, so Bama's passing game is still a big question mark. Bama ranks 3rd from the bottom in the entire NCAA in passing yards per game. Take away Brodie's big numbers in the first 2.5 games, and we're dead last in the NCAA in passing. We have yet to throw for more than 100 yards in one game since Brodie's injury. Astounding, huh?

So basically, this could be a very serious defensive game on Saturday. I don't see us blowing UT out of the water, and don't see them doing it to us either. It could very well be a battle of FG's (ie. 1990 - Doyle vs Burke, with Bama taking a 9-6 victory over #3 UT). But the one thing Bama has going for them is that our defense is going to come ready to play. Oh, UT will be ready to stop the run and make Pennington beat them, but Bama isn't going to give up a lot. And Phil always plays it safe with Alabama. Who knows what he has in his pocket this year.

But back to the prediction part of this, it's going to be close - VERY CLOSE. I don't think there will be a lot of points in this game - maybe 30-35 points total. Ainge is still young and has thrown an interception in each game he has played, on average. But he has also thrown 12 TD passes as well. And UT has some serious height against our shorter DB's. Plus, our DB's are playing hurt right now, so if UT wins, it'll be with their passing game. If Bama wins, it's going to be from causing turnovers and getting quick scores off those turnovers. Darby will struggle in this game. He'll get some good runs, but don't expect Darby to put up 150 yards on his own unless UT is just that bad, which I doubt they are. Ainge will definitely test the Tide secondary. If we can somehow contain those WR's and not let them make those "outjump the DB" catches, we should pull it out. But the bottom line is, Pennington will HAVE to have some sort of passing game. He'll need to throw for more than 100 yards if we expect to win, because UT will shut down the running game if we never get completions. Can he do it? We don't really know because he hasn't proven himself yet. He hasn't thrown for more than 100 yards in a game yet. He'll be forced to on Saturday unless our OL is just that dominant in the running game.

Sooooo.......... what to call the game, what to call the game....... sheesh. I don't know, honestly. I believe Bama CAN win, but UT can also win with that height advantage at WR. I believe Bama will get to Ainge quite a bit unless all they call are quick short passes. If any time passes when he's camping out in the pocket, Gilberry and company are going to get to him and get sacks and/or fumbles.

As for special teams, Bama has the edge though their FG kicker probably has the edge over Bostick. This will probably very well be the difference in the game. So look for a close game at halftime... could easily be 10-7 or 7-6. There won't be much scoring. 3rd quarter starts and Bama's going to try and run the ball if have any success in the 1st half, which I believe we will. Both teams will be ready for the 4th quarter. It's all going down in the trenches. Darby, can you put the Tide on your shoulders to get us the victory? I believe you can... but with the home crowd in favor of the Vols, that's the difference in the game. Look for OT or a slight win for UT, but only because of the home field advantage. Shula can't seem to win against the Big Boys of the SEC, especially on the road, and Saturday will be another learning day for our coaching staff... but it will be close. Maybe Bama has enough in the tank to actually pull it out - I think they do, but whether they fire up that last gasp of fuel, we'll see on Saturday. ROLL TIDE, and here's hoping the Bamadog is way off this week....

PREDICTION:      BAMA 13 - #11 TENNESSEE 17

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Unfortunately, I called this game right on the head though I should have been WAY, WAY off with the Bama D playing a whale of a game. The offense is anemic and will not be successful until we get consistent GOOD play from our QB, whoever that may be. If we want to overthrow WRs or throw it out of bounds, let's bring back Andrew Zow. We have to be smarter and get our WRs the ball more than 1 out of 10 times. 2 plays did it in for the Tide - fumble for TD in the 1st drive, and the punt return which set up UT's only offensive TD of the day. Other than that, the D allowed 3 points. They even gave us a 3-and-out before our final drive, then UT gave us a FREE 1st down (say, a gift) and we still couldn't do anything with it except overthrow our guy.... Bama dominated. UT won. And that's what matters... Bamadog is 6-2 on predictions... sheesh.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 13 - #11 TENNESSEE 17

BAMA vs #24 SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI PREDICTION

It's the 2nd to last time Bama will play USM for a long time. USM has only beaten Alabama 2 or 3 times since 1990. But don't count on USM pulling a rabbit out of their hat this Saturday even though they sport a national ranking. They are definitely overrated right now, going with their backup QB just like the Tide. Nothing in the statbook (except turnover ratio) favors Southern Miss on paper. They even allow 30 more yards per game to opponents, yet are still 4-0. Weird huh? It's call turnovers and they come up with the big play at just the right time, mostly down in the red zone.

Tomorrow, the Tide will turn on the Golden Eagles. Not only will they get pounded and smothered by the Alabama defense, but there's a good chance they could get shut out. Yes, the Bama D is THAT good this year, ranked #4 in the country in total defense. It hasn't been the heaviest of schedules for the Tide, but we're still getting it done. Look for plenty of blitzes from the Tide in order to make USM beat us in the air. It's practically a given that they won't beat us on the ground.... once they go airborne, the DB's will be smacking their lips, and bigtime. People, this one won't even be close, even with the absence of Ray Hudson. USM is just THAT overrated. Period.

Pennington got quite a bit of confidence last week against UK, and hopefully, that confidence will continue to rise as we get ready for the meat of the SEC schedule (sorry Miss St., you're in the mix too). Darby will hope to have a good day, and Castille and Johns will also get into the mix, but Coach hasn't said how much at this point. Either way, look for Bama to get around its average on the ground ... about 250 yards on the day, and if Freelend gets another punt almost blocked, we could top the 300 mark yet again if he pulls it down, but don't count on it. If USM just gives up, Bama will run the game away with 350 yards.

But on the other side of the Ball, USM's backup QB, Damion Carter will have his hands full. The Bama D is going to be relentless. Sure, he brought his team back against Houston a couple of weekends ago... but Dorothy, we're not in Texas anymore (well, I am, I guess)... we're in A-L-A-B-A-M-A. The Houston Defense isn't ANYTHING like the Bama defense you're going to see tomorrow. Actually, Carter remembers the defense well, as he played against us last year. He didn't play much after that game last year, and he's in the same predicament this year. So it will basically be up to the Tide offense to get things going because USM's chance to get anything going will be slim. They might get a lucky fluke TD, but it won't last long.

Last, special teams could prove to be huge once again. Special teams player Prothro ranks #1 in the country in kickoff returns, and Brandon Brooks isn't too far behind. Odds of taking one back to the house aren't usually high, but look for some good long returns in this game with a possible score. And Bostick should remain as Mr. Reliable in this game as he has only missed one kick this season. He also had one blocked (UK). This game is homecoming. It's Southern Miss. It's Tuscaloosa. It's Soutern Miss, did I mention that already? Southern Miss only beats us when they have a truly special team and we're headed on a downward spiral. Even though this is the first time a ranked USM team has ever played an unranked Tide, the previous scenario is hardly true. This is NOT a super talented USM team, and Bama isn't headed downward. We have had a setback at QB and RB, but our defense has kept us in it along with great special teams play. No, this isn't the year USM beats Alabama. It won't happen, no how, no way. Period. Too much Bama D, not enough Eagle O, and just enough Bama O to get the job done while keeping the clock running at the end of the game to put us at 5-2 on the season, one win away from being bowl-eligible. USM's high turnover rate (ints) on defense might get them some points, but not much else.... ya know, there's a reason why Bama is favored over a ranked team.... it's because they are overrated - and tomorrow's game will prove it. Stupid freakin' injuries.......

PREDICTION:      BAMA 27 - SOUTHERN MISS 7

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: I told you it would be luck or a miracle if they even scored points, huh? They're real lucky they even got the one field goal. The Bama D is for real, but the real meat of the schedule is right around the corner starting next weekend. UT looms... But this one looked good minus the penalties. Darby is for real and can carry the team. Now it's Spencer's turn... Good win, Tide. Bamadog is back on track with 2 in a row at 5-2 on the season, same as the Tide. One more win gets us in a bowl for sure (Thanks for being there Miss. St. - you're our insurance policy).
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 27 - SOUTHERN MISS 3

BAMA vs KENTUCKY PREDICTION

Hmmmmmmmmm... I'm scared to even attempt a prediction after 2 straight misses. Talk about a fiasco last week. Sheesh. South Carolina? Well, one thing if for sure: With TURNOVERS, Bama has a chance to win the game, period. Because of TURNOVERS, Bama lost the time of possession. Because of TURNOVERS, Bama gave 2 TD drives to USC right on the 20 yard line or closer. They couldn't do much else the rest of the game. But take away the turnovers, and Bama probably scores at least one more FG which would send the game into a 6-6 OT. LOL After that, it's anyone's guess.

Fact is, is that Alabama has no offense right now. And when they ARE on the field, we're not completing drives - we're turning the ball over and that's going to be the key this weekend. We CANNOT have turnovers. Even just one will kill the drive and the possibility to win the game. We must play good, clean, and sound football.

UK has their own struggles as they have been hit with some probation of their own. They have just lost to Ohio University last week, so at least we know Bama has an inkling of a chance, right? That remains to be seen. We could only muster up 3 points against freakin' South Carolina. Crap. I'm still pissed off about that. So where do we go from here? We run the ball. Feed Ray, feed Darby, feed Castille until they can't run anymore. Odds are, they'll fumble a lot less than we'll throw a pick. At least if we never pass, we can always punt and not give it to them right there with a turnover.

Ok, all kidding aside, we need to do the simple things in the passing game. Nothing complex because it's obvious our new QB's honestly can't handle it. They are just too new and don't have RAW QB TALENT. Why do you think Brodie came in as a freshman and waxed Arkansas 2 years ago? Because he had raw talent. These QBs honestly don't have that. So it must be built over time.... so don't think it's going to come quickly cuz it ain't. This week should be any different as Bama's #1 SEC-ranked running team goes up against the SEC's worst running defense in Kentucky. Alabama gets 227.4 ypg while Kentucky's rushing defense is a whopping 197.2. Will Bama run the ball?? You betcha. Will Bama pass the ball? Maybe 10 times the entire game if the running game works like it did against the Hogs a couple of weeks ago. It could be a real running game massacre against UK if Bama can keep the holding penalties away and the yellow cloth in the ref's pants.

On the other side of the ball, Alabama leads the SEC in total defense (246.2) while Kentucky is 12th (402.5), so Bama "should" in all honesty, win this game based on the stats. Basically, Bama is holding teams to very few yards. The problem is that the offense gives the ball to the other team at the Bama 10 yard line and then points become a factor, which is what determines the winner/loser. So if we can hold on to the ball and have some sense of possession time, and make UK drive more than 50% of the field, we have an awesome chance to win the game on the road. Else, well, I'd rather not go there. This is one of 2 winnable games left on the schedule (MSU is the other one - Vandy beat them, ouch!), so we still need to come up with ONE MORE WIN in addition to UK/MSU. That outside shot is USM next week...

So this week, Bama's running game continues to thrive and thrive BIG. UK won't be able to stop Hudson or Darby. We might even get to see Aaron Johns in this one if it gets out of hand late... but who knows. Look for Bama to rack up at least 300 yards of ground game and maybe 40-50 yards in the air just to keep UK honest. Let's face it, we may take a shot downfield, but we won't be completing much with our present QBs. Most everything will be quick, short passes, some maybe even behind the line of scrimmage. But just look for a heavy dose of the running game because that's what's going to make or break this team. Special teams is likely to even get a punt block for a possible TD. We have come very close as of late in blocking some punts, so check out Marcel Stamps and Chris James on getting on top of one tomorrow.

Now the prediction part... *deep breath*. UK may not score in this game unless the offense continues to turn the ball over. Based on our last 2 games, that's inevitable. We'll probably turn it over 1-2 times, maybe more if we're just that careless. If we don't turn the ball over, I honestly think we'll shut them out. With a turnover or 2, they might actually score depending on the spot of the TO. But Bama should get into the endzone a couple of times on the ground... and either the defense or special teams will add a score as well. I want to say we'll score 7, but this is UK. Odds have to be better in us scoring more points. So the game is close at halftime - maybe 10-0 Tide... then in the 2nd half, Bama's running game starts to finally wear down the UK defense and puts up a few more points to give Bama another win. It won't be pretty by any means, but the final score won't be any indication on how the game went - it'll be close till the 4th quarter.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 17 - Kentucky 7

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Turnovers were huge in this game that favored the Tide. Without special teams and defense, the game would have been much closer... BUT the Tide capitalized on UK mistakes and came out with a big, must-win Win. Maybe we can get back on track now... Bamadog's record equals the Tide's now at 4-2.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 45 - Kentucky 17

BAMA vs S.CAROLINA PREDICTION

This week poses a real problem. Flip a coin, aight? Who knows how this one will turn out. Yeah, I think being optimistic actually got the best of me last week. And it cost me a prediction. But this week, things will turn around. Bama is undefeated at home this season, and the gamecocks have never won in Bryant-Denny Stadium. They have only won 1 game against the Tide in the last 11 I believe and that was in Columbia in 1996 perhaps? Anyway, don't count out the cocks, because it's going to be a real dogfight. We obviously don't have the offensive firepower we used to have, so look for VERY close games the rest of the way down the schedule. NO game will be a blowout except POSSIBLY for Mississippi State, who just downright sucks this year. They lost to Div. I-AA Maine (Maine's first win against I-A EVER), but MSU beat Tulane the 1st week of the season. What does that say about Tulane??? EEEK!

So back to the Tide.... Guillon has a game under his belt, and a road game at that. He'll now be in the warm confines of Bryant-Denny where the crowd shouldn't be quite as loud when we're on offense. He'll feel more at home - he has had more practice with the WR's this week, and practice has looked fairly decent. It's all about timing and hopefully, they have fixed some of those problems we had last week. Look for more screens as those are easy plays to run and it keeps the defense honest, which is what the Tide is going to have to do Saturday. S. Carolina has a top notch run defense, so if the Tide is to win Saturday, we're going to have to have an exceptional ground game and a decent passing game. Hudson and our OL can run on anyone.... but once they put 8-9 men in the box, we need to take advantage of that and make them pay. My gut feeling is that we'll still not complete 50% of our passes, but will cover a bit more ground anyway (more yards). Here's to hoping, right?

On special teams, things have to get better on coverage teams, and I'm sure they will. After last week's fiasco, look for much improved play in that area of the game. Bostick and Freelend are doing a GREAT job so far this season, and kick returns for Bama is tops in the SEC, thanks mostly to Brandon Brooks. I think we'll see improvement in the one weak spot on special teams last week. Also, look for a blocked punt this week or something close to it. Those guys are really getting off the line quickly and almost blocked a punt last week at Arkansas. I think they'll break through this week for a big block.

The defense, as usual, will have to carry the team. Only Bama and USC have given up turnovers to the other team, yet not given up any points. We also both have +4 in the turnover margin column, so it will be interesting to see how the defenses play this game. It could very well be a low scoring game. USC will use 2 QB's and honestly, it won't matter. The Bama D will come to play, and as each game progresses, Bama just gets in the backfield more and more. Gilberry is really coming on strong lately and so has Mark Anderson. Throw in a very good secondary lead by Roman Harper and you have the recipe for a close Bama win - a defensive win.

But anyway, Bama will feed Hudson and Darby the ball quite a bit - a lot, actually, but maybe not as much as last week. USC will make Guillon win the game for the Tide... BUT Bama has enough superior athletes in the trenches to get Hudson another 100+ yd game and Darby will be right behind him. If Bama has 4th-and-1 this week on the 39, we may go for it... you think Shula has heard enough of that this week?? Yeah, you can 2nd-guess everything, but hey, you can 1st-guess stuff too. You don't always get 4th-and-1, but you can have a very good hunch as to how the game is going and if you think you'll get it or not.

So look for another close game at the half with the score possibly tied at 10 or 13. There won't be much of a lead at the half for either team. In the 2nd half, I believe Bama is going to try and air it out early in the 3rd, but more Hudson puts the game away in the end and Bama wins a VERY tight game unless the Bama defense just totally dominates and gets a goose egg on the USC side of the scoreboard. Close one, but Bama pulls away in a close one - and no, not optimistic this week - Bama just wins, plain and simple.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 20 - S.Carolina 17

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: It's obvious without Brodie Croyle in the lineup, we have ABSOLUTELY NO Quarterback on this team that can lead this team. Is it time to go to Adam Thrash or the QB (True Freshman) from Hoover High School? I don't know - but we won't win another game this year, even with me keeping the faith. 13 points in 2 complete games isn't enough to beat Western Carolina. If we played W. Carolina again, we might actually lose. Bamadog is 2-3 on the season, but don't worry - it won't be hard to predict anymore games this year.... Sheesh. I might as well play QB if we're going to play this piss-poorly.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 3 - S.Carolina 20

BAMA vs ARKANSAS PREDICTION

Well, Saturday is coming up upon us and a lot of questions fill the air... How will Guillon do in his first start as Bama's #1 QB? How will the offense, in general, respond? Will crowd noise be a factor against this team? How effective will Keith Brown and Ray Hudson be this weekend? Will Bamadog be on TV this weekend?? Huh? What's that? Yeah - that's the right question. It looks like I'll be AT the game this weekend, so updates Saturday morning may or may not happen as I travel to Fayetteville from Dallas, TX, on gameday. I'll get back in town late that night... as for the game itself, as I stated, there are many questions that are unanswered and we won't know those answers until the game's over. This is a toughy, but I'll see what I can muster up...

Bama will leave for T-town in the morning and get in some practice on Friday afternoon. Hopefully they can get the butterflies out quickly as the first road game of the year looms ahead. Arkansas is no pushover, so the Tide has to be ready. At QB, Marc Guillon gets the start and Pennington may see some action if Guillon and the Bama offense puts up no points in the 1st half. If Bama seems to be rolling, look for Shula to stick with the hot hand. In my opinion, that's a good move, especially on the road. Go with who's hot. At RB, Hudson will likely start, but look for Darby to possibly get more snaps as the game wears on. Castille will also play a huge role in the game Saturday, especially coming out of the backfield for short 'out'-passes. But the guy we really look forward to being 100% is Keith Brown, Bama's tall and speedy WR who was out against WCU last weekend due to a sore knee. He should be close to 100% at gametime.

On defense, things look good as long as we keep our bodies fresh and un-injured. We are slowing building a little depth on the DL, and LB's seem to be doing well too. Because Arkansas is throwing the ball a LOT more this year, look for a lot of nickel and dime packages from the Tide defense. Simeon Castille may not be at 100% either, but only time will tell. He'll likely play. The rest of the bunch need to be on their toes because Matt Jones is for real this year. He's their main weapon. If we can shut him down, then we can shut down the Hogs completely. He's one of the top offensive leaders in the country at 300 yards per game, and he already thrown 9 TDs this season in 3 games. They also have a high-scoring offense. They are ranked #7 in the country and #1 in the SEC in scoring offense. Bama is #9 in the country and #2 in the SEC. Bama is also #1 in total defense and scoring defense at 8ppg, so SOMETHING will have to give. But like 2 years ago, Arkansas has the "#1" defense, but they hadn't played anyone... then they played us and got slaughtered like the pigs that they were.... so maybe our stats are a little deceiving since we haven't really played anyone.... so don't get caught up in the stats until the end of the year.

Bama's special teams look to keep things rolling as well. Last week was one of the most complete special teams performances I've ever seen by the Crimson Tide. 2 FG's, blocked a punt for a TD, great kickoff return, made all PAT's, great punt average by Freelend and caused a fumble and recovery when the other team returned a kickoff. It couldn't get much better. Hopefully they'll stay aggressive yet aware of what's going on and make some plays for us Saturday. Nutt is just the type of coach that would pull something out of his bag of tricks - almost like Tubberville.

So where does that put me? Hmmm... good question. With Brodie out, we still have most of the other phases of the team intact. The running game doesn't change - it's merely a handoff to a RB, right? OL blocks, WR blocks for them and they get what they can. Defense is the defense and they are playing pretty well though against lesser competition. Special teams, as I have already pointed out, have been playing exceptionally well so far. So Defense, Special Teams, Running Play, and Passing plays. He's only 1/4 of the total team's plays if you look at it that way... so if he can make a few good passes and keep the Hogs' defense honest... make a few good play action passes (which Shula loves to throw out there), we have a good shot at coming out of Fayetteville with a big (not by the score - just a BIG) win. It would put the Tide at 4-0 and 2-0 in the SEC, and would also match our win total of a year ago. So it's partially on Guillon's shoulders. The main thing is to cut back on penalties, something the Tide has had trouble doing the last couple of games, and also not committing turnovers. Committing turnovers on your opponent's field is almost like committing suicide. It can be deadly in the wink of an eye. Boom... Fumble... TD Arkansas. Just like that... so Guillon will have to make good reads on the defense and keep pick-offs to ZERO, and Hudson/Darby have to hang on to the football. And if our defense can come up with a turnover or two of our own, we could be sitting pretty. I believe we'll get a turnover or 2 in this game... Matt Jones is prone to turnovers if he can be flushed out of the pocket and throw downfield. Where he is MOST dangerous is when he decides to keep the ball and run with it. He's got some long and lanky legs, and he runs faster than you would think - close to a 4.4 - 40. And he's very elusive and tough to bring down. But he usually makes his errors on the run when he passes the ball. Let's hope he gets a little flustered out there Saturday.

So the prediction part... too many unknowns to officially call this one till we see Guillon in action with that many fany cheering against him. I saw him at the A-Day game and he was pretty impressive. But Arkansas IS a little bad against the pass, so I think he'll do just enough to keep the Tide in the game and squeak out a VERY close win in Fayetteville. It's going to be close and could honestly go either way, depending on how Guillon reacts to this being his first game as a starter. If Brodie starts, it's a definite win - with Guillon, I just don't know yet. Nobody really knows.... so here's my guess: Bama and the Hogs are tied at Halftime... 2nd half, Bama's running game gets a little more beefed up and special teams make a big play somewhere. The Tide goes up and the Hogs have to get an on-sides kick to try to win the game. Hogs get the ball back, but come up short at the end as the Bama defense makes just enough plays to escape with a win. Dang, this could be a TIGHT, TIGHT game! ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 24 - HOGS 20

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: I have to admit, I was being optimistic for the first time in one of my predictions instead of realistic. I thought Guillon would perform better, based on the A-Day game and also how he did against lesser competition in Western Carolina last week. I was wrong. Defense played well, but the offense needs some serious versatility. Ouch! Bamadog is 3-1 on the season. Crap.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 10 - HOGS 27

BAMA vs WESTERN CAROLINA PREDICTION

This week, #18 (Division I-AA) Western Carolina comes to Tuscaloosa after a really bad week of weather for the state of Alabama. Hurricane Ivan took his little time actually getting to the Alabama coast, then ripped its way all the way to Tennessee like it just HAD to get out of the state. This bodes well for the Tide as things should be dry and ready to go by Saturday's game. The Bama athletic dept. has a meeting today at 9am, and more than likely, the game won't be postponed at all since it's now clear blue skies over T-town.

As for the game itself, WCU brings a 2-0 record to Bryant-Denny, as does the Crimson Tide. But don't let Division I-AA status fool you - this team could be for real, and only time will tell if they are. They scored a then-record breaking 77 points in the opener against W. Virgina State, then beat Nicholls State 28-7 last week. They lead the country, regardless of division, with +8 in turnover margin. Bama is at +2 going into this game. WCU's running game is not one to laugh at either - getting well over 200 ypg like the Crimson Tide. The main difference in this game is that WCU has played a "high school" type schedule. Bama has played a weak team, and also Utah State. ha ha Yeah, Utah State actually gave us more trouble than Ole Miss, scoring 17 points against us. The OM score could have easily been 35-7 had Darby put in that 3rd down run at the end of the game.

But WCU will run the ball, and they'll run it a lot. Their QB actually came from South Carolina so he still has SEC potential. But WCU has a few things going against it - this is the first time since '96 that they have started out 2-0, and have only been 2-0 4 times since 1970. They are 0-8 against the SEC and an astounding 0-34 against Division I-A. To be the first I-A team that WCU beats would be catastrophic for this Alabama team, so don't think Shula isn't going to have this team on their toes for Saturday's game.

Brodie will need to have an 'on' day as WCU has 6 interceptions already on the year. Regardless of who you're playing, those are good numbers. They are obviously doing something right, but against 'lesser' competition. But WCU hasn't faced a defense anywhere near what the Crimson Tide will bring to the table this weekend. Two years ago (and this was a different team then), WCU lost to Auburn 56-0 - that that Auburn teams sucked big-time. On Saturday, look for Joe Kines to bring quite a few blitzes and to force the WCU QB to win the game for them. Their main power IS the running game. If we shut that down, which Bama will, Bama should have a hay-day against this team. This MIGHT be the first shutout of the year if Bama can play mistake-free football, but I don't put scoring a 'fluke' TD past any opponent. They'll score at least 7 unless we just pummel 'em for 21 in the first quarter to get 'em on their heels & force them to pass the rest of the game.

So look for a lot of blitzes; look for Bama's running game to really flourish; look for Brodie to get some big passing yards on play-action pass and Bama will win it big. There will be no let-down this week, and there will be NO repeat of last year's debacle of the Northern Illinois game. The Catamounts may have scored over 100 points already, but that average will certainly go down after Saturday as the Bama defense comes to play hard, and brings this WCU team back down to earth. Here's a dose of reality. Bama may not have to kick a FG the entire game as offense will just churn away the yards on the ground until they score almost every time they get the ball. I believe since this is a I-A vs I-AA game, there are no vegas odds this week.... take these odds - Bama will win big, regardless of WCU's previous offensive output. Period. Most of those points came off turnovers including 6 ints... Bama has taken care of the ball well this year, especially Brodie with no int's (knock on wood), so this is where Bama makes it happen unlike the other teams WCU has played this year, not to mention that the other teams were playing 'catch-up' ball, so they knew the pass was coming. Not so on Saturday. ROLL TIDE.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 51 - WESTERN CAROLINA 7

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Defense played well; offense fed off of the special teams' big plays, and the team played a practically perfect game except for penalties. The loss of Brodie for the season is the biggest blow by far. Let's hope Guillon can step it up in upcoming weeks and be 'the man'. Bamadog is now 3-0 in gameday Predictions... almost nailed that one on the head.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 52 - WESTERN CAROLINA 0

BAMA vs OLE MISS PREDICTION

On paper, and based on the 1st week's results, it appears Bama should win this game again Ole Miss. Plus, Bama has history on our side. Bama nearly always beats Ole Miss at home. This year, the Tide is stronger, faster, and smarter (offensively), but lacks some depth and a experience at certain positions. Ole Miss lost Eli Manning, which was probably about 90% of the heart and soul of that team last year. We have a healthy Brodie Croyle, and an arsenal of RBs, not to mention our LBs/DBs are top notch. My main concern will be our DL getting to the speedy Ole Miss QB and not giving him enough time to get long passes off into the 2ndary.

Offensively for Bama, we'll bring a similar gameplan on Saturday that we used last weekend. Very balanced, but more run-oriented, which basically sets up the pass. I believe Bama will rush for over 200 yards and Brodie might have a slightly 'off' day - after all, Ole Miss's defense isn't USU, and they tore us a new one last year. They still have a good nucleus of that team back this year. Ignore the Memphis game/score. This is SEC time and one game doesn't really matter in this league. They have one game under their belts just like our freshmen have... and they're only going to get better as well. Whether Ole Miss can pull out the upset (Bama is favored by 11) is another story.

After looking at Bama and Ole Miss, I don't see Ole Miss leaving Bryant-Denny stadium with a win. Bama's defense will come together on Saturday and wreak havock on Ole Miss, picking off at least one pass, and causing a lot of disruption in the Ole Miss running game. Look for Bama to force Ole Miss to beat them with the pass. We're going to stick 8 men in the box and make Spurlock beat us over the top.

If Bama can show up again in the special teams area and have a game like we had against USU, that could very well be the difference, but I believe Bama will make just a couple more "big" plays which will seal the deal in the 4th quarter. It will be close most of the way with Bama having a slight lead at halftime... then Ole Miss makes a game of it in the 3rd until Bama finally wears the Ole Miss defense down in the 4th with Ray Hudson getting over 100 yards on the day, for the 2nd game in a row. Croyle will have a decent game, but will get picked off at least once.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 27 - OLE MISS 20

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: I was close.. sort of. I figured Ole Miss might have had a bit more firepower than 7 points, and they very well should have, but the Bama D shut them down after 2 early turnovers. Not a bad outing... and Keith Brown & Tyrone Prothro have established themselves as the goto WRs on this team so far. Great running game, and note that Croyle has now had 2 games without throwing an interception - the only 2 of his career. Good game, Tide - could have very well been 35-7... Bamadog is 2-0.
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 28 - OLE MISS 7

PRE-SEASON ANALYSIS / BAMA vs UTAH STATE PREDICTION

It's opening weekend, and can you feel Alabama Football in the air, folks?? I sure can, and for the first time in a long time... mainly because I'm in Pensacola right now finishing up a week-long vacation, then I'm headed back to Dallas on Sunday. I love seeing all this Crimson and White down South.

As for this weekend, Bama should come out on top by a large margin. The spread on the game is 26 points, but I'm not sure we'll cover that spread mainly because we still don't know how TRUE FRESHMEN will react in their first game - especially at the skilled positions (ie. WR). DJ Hall will be the guy I'm looking for on Saturday. He's been the talk of the class thus far. Then my boy Keith Brown will get some looks. But don't count out our go-to guy - Tyrone Prothro. Look for him to take it to the house once or twice on Saturday. So the WR position will be VERY interesting to watch... if they can get the butterflies out early, maybe they can get an easy win under their belt and show their true talent...

Here's a quick pre-season analysis on the Tide before I get into the prediction...

At QB, Brodie Croyle will start the season healthy and IN CHARGE. If he can get the ball to our set of inexperienced, yet talented WRs, look for Bama to roll BIG. But it all depends on the WRs. But this will depend on the new OL Bama has created. Due to the departure of Justin Smiley off of LG, Mathis is taking over in that spot but he seems to be doing nicely so far. The right side of the line is where we really need to focus as these guys haven't played at all. J.B. Closner has the center position as usual and should do a great job for us as well. But if these guys can pass-block, everything should fall into play. Run blocking is easy compared to protecting the QB. When the run blitzes come, you gotta know who your man is... we'll see what happens, but we sure don't need Brodie getting knocked out in the first game of the season, so let's have a great game, OL, ok?

At RB, Ray Hudson has had a good camp and brings to the table a whole lot of speed. Bring in Darby and you have more shiftiness, but a little less ball control... behind them are Tim Castille and Aaron Johns, both of which are wanting to get some playing time at RB. I wouldn't count on seeing Castille or Johns at the RB slot though unless Bama's on the 1-yd line where we put in the jumbo package of FB, McClain and RB, Castille setup. That seems to be working for us pretty well in fall camp. It'll be interesting to see what the coaches do there. But Ray will get the start and it's really his job to lose, though it does seem like we'll be going TB by committee.

At FB, we're stacked. McClain and Castille are 2 hosses I wouldn't ever want to have to tackle. Both of these guys will likely play in the NFL one day if they can stay healthy.

At TE, Johnston will probably get most of the playing time... Cavan, I believe will play, but not sure how much. Look for Brodie to look for the TE at times if the WRs can't get open and this might actually be a huge part of our game - throwing to the TEs.

At DE, we have some decent starters and Bryant isn't even on the 1st-team defense. But with the 2nd stringers, there is a definite experience/talent dropoff, but we'll get some guys in there to get playing time because this group HAS to have some type of rotation to keep fresh.

At LB, we're pretty much all healed up and this should be a strong suit for us starting out the season. Wortham is a machine, Roach is back, Ryans may play after he injured himself a week ago... and Terrance could get some looks as well. We'll have to pick and choose when to blitz, but should it happen, we have plenty of speed here to make things happen in Bama's favor.

In the 2ndary, we now have Peprah back after a couple of weeks of him getting his hamstring back to normal. He's just a hair behind, but the coaches say he has gotten back in there and made some noise... not really losing his job because he is THAT talented. I look to see some serious hits and interceptions by Peprah this year, and definitely at least one in this first game if Utah State has to play "catch-up" if we get ahead early. If we can make their offense predictable, it's going to be lights out, baby.

On special teams, hopefully things will get better in the FG-kicking department. Bostic has changed his jersey number, so maybe that will help him out. Bo Freelend will continue punting... if he keeps up what he did last year, he's going to have a great year. Not sure who our return guys will be, but I'm guessing 5'4" Brandon Brooks, and possibly Prothro or Caddell... we'll see.

Now on to the 1st game Prediction... Bama vs. Utah State...

As I said earlier, this game on paper looks to be a blowout. I mean, how does Vegas come up with Bama by 26??? Well, we're ranked somewhere in the 30's technically, but guess what? Utah State is ranked #104. Ouch! And check this out...