Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Tight game as I predicted, but UF just ran away with it in the 4th quarter and we couldn't muster up any more points. Hard to beat any UF team with only 20 points. Bama just needed more offense and couldn't afford to give up big plays or settle for FGs in the red zone. Next year, Gators... Next Year. It'll be on - again. ROLL TIDE!

#1 BAMA vs AUBURN PREDICTION

The Iron Bowl is finally here and Bama hits the field again after 2 weeks of resting up during the bye week. This game really scares the heck out of me because Auburn is still Auburn. They bring the heat quite a bit during the game, and that's what has caused so many problems in the last few years against Alabama. BUT, this year is special - and different. Bama's offensive line is actually good and has held off much of the blitz packages teams have been throwing at them that would have spelled disaster in previous years. At Georgia, who woulda thunk Bama pulls off that win? Who would thunk that Alabama were to pull off the game against LSU? Everyone picked against Alabama - and LSU was definitely Alabama's biggest threat of the season.

Now, people actually believe in the Tide until they talk about the Tide playing the Gators. Alabama is the LONE FBS team left in the country that is still undefeated. At 11-0, Alabama can enter the SEC Championship still unscathed if it can pull off the win in Bryant-Denny this weekend. On paper, Alabama has this game in the bag. On the field, it will be closer than everyone thinks. Bama, a 14-point favorite, cannot overlook Auburn - and I don't believe they will. Why? Because this game IS THE biggest game of the year this year. We can NOT accept another loss to Auburn. Personally, I'd MUCH rather lose to UF than AU... but who says we even have to lose to Florida? In any case, losing to Auburn is NOT an option. The streak must come to an end, and AU's bowling chances will get snuffed out with a loss to Bama. It all works out for Alabama with the win.

For the game itself, Auburn's offense has been anemic this season. Burns has been anything but stellar throwing just 2 TDs and 7 ints. Of course, anything can happen during the course of a game. He could double that TD output easily in one game if we don't show up. But the thing is, is that Auburn's main running play is Burns left/right/up the middle. If we can just make sure we contain Kodi Burns, this game should be a lock. How many times have we seen that offense snap the ball and Kodi just start running? It's the main play in Auburn's playbook. It's insane. Sure, he has made a lot of plays that way, but you don't win a lot of football games that way (ie. see AU's record). Saban will obviously be ready for it, so I feel good about the game in that area. The other phases of the offense have been worse. WRs aren't getting the ball much, Trott is out, and the OL isn't blocking well enough to get a solid running game going on a consistent basis. It all adds up for a big day for Alabama's defense.

Bama's offense however DOES have what it takes to run the ball effectively. They have done so all year long. Teams know we're going to run it, and they still can't stop it. LSU did the best job, but still came up short due to QB lack of productivity (for his team). AU matches up well against Alabama as well, but not to the extent of LSU. I DO believe though, that Auburn will slow down Alabama's running game - under our season average... and they'll make Wilson throw. But with Bama having a few big-play guys available now, we keep the chains moving. And the crowd. Crap. This crowd may very well be the loudest to date...and there have been some very loud crowds since the stadium expanded a few years ago.

On special teams, Bama has the clear edge and could be the difference in the game as Arenas has gotten back in sync, Tiffin is kicking well again, and Fitzgerald is punting like a crazyman. If Auburn doesn't put the ball in the end zone, they may not score with their FG kicker, Wes Byrun, having injury and accuracy problems. I definitely look for some big special teams play from Alabama in this one.

So overall, I expect a dogfight early. There could very well be quite a few 3-and-outs in this one... but if Bama can play the way it wants to play, it'll run the ball in small chunks and throw when necessary. That's the way we have done it all year, and we shouldn't really do much to change that - and we probably won't, unless AU just completely shuts down Coffee and company. And when Auburn starts bringing the heat on defense, this year, JPW will be ready. Something about this team is special, and McElwain has most of the cylinders clicking the way it should. But I look for Bama to get on the scoreboard first and for Auburn to keep it close the whole way. Remember, they still have a lot to play for - the 6-game streak, and a bowl game. It's not like they're going to lie down and let us win. We have to show up, not worry about next week's game against Florida, and just take care of business. With Auburn's offense being one of the worst in the country... AND Alabama's defense being one of the BEST in the country, I anticipate a big win for the Tide, "big" meaning ANY win.... because this game just keeps us in the race for the National Championship. No need for "style" points in this game or any game. We're #1 and all we have to do is win - period. And in Bryant-Denny Stadium, Alabama comes up with the big win to solidify its top spot in the polls and remain that way for the SEC Championship game. Look at it this way: the 2 top scores against Alabama this year has been UGA (30) and LSU (21). And UGA was honestly over before it started. LSU was legit even though Bama shot himself in the foot a few times.... but if Auburn gets more than 21 points, it will be a feat no one else has done except Georgia in a too-late-to-comeback game. Bama DOES score more than 21. That adds up to an undefeated season. Now it's time to execute and take care of business. NOW BEAT THE BARN!!! ROLL TIDE!!!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 29 - AUBURN 14
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 36 - AUBURN 0     (BAMADOG 11-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: The most impressive game all year. Everything clicked and Bamafans can now get the monkey off their back. The @#$#%^ streak is OVER...and a new streak has begun!! The defense was awesome - SHUTOUT!! And McElroy put the icing on the cake with that last TD in the 4th quarter. What a thing of beauty. Let's just enjoy this one for a while and get ready for UF next week. Man I'm stoked!! ROLL TIDE!!

#1 BAMA vs MISSISSIPPI STATE PREDICTION

Bama survived this past week against LSU as the #1 team in the country. One week down, 3 more games to go. Now Mississippi State is in a similar situation they were in back in 1980. MSU underdog to #1 Alabama by about a 20-point margin. MSU has nothing to lose except bowl eligibility at this point. One more loss and they are done for the year. A loss for Alabama would be devistating bigtime...especially after what we have accoplished so far. Just ask Penn State about Iowa.

Anyway, Alabama has lost to Mississippi State the last 2 years. It was one of the reasons why Mike Shula got the ax back in '06. Then Saban showed up in '07 and was also Croomed. But that was last year - a year in which we just didn't finish (or start for that matter). This year, it's a whole new mentality, a new outlook, a new ranking, a lot better record, and a lot more to play for. It's being dubbed as the Revenge Tour and so far, Bama is 2-0 this month against LSU and the Sun Belt. Bama looks to end the MSU streak at 2 and head into the bye week with an 11-0 record as OU/Texas Tech play that weekend.

Croom will bring the best passing defense to Tuscaloosa that the Tide has seen all year - at least on paper. They haven't really played anyone that passes much, so it's really out of default. It's like playing Georgia Tech and telling yourself that they didn't pass but 10 yards. Well duh. They're a running team. But on the flip side, MSU's offense hasn't fared much better. They have score 1/2 of what Bama has scored all year, and given up almost double. It's no wonder they are 3-6 right now. They really aren't that great especially when you compare who they have actually played against. Sure, they could be 6-3... but they're not. And no taking anything away from MSU, but they REALLY don't have a chance Saturday. I mean, they "do", but they don't. You get me?

Bama's offensive line will be the key to Saturday's game - as it usually is. MSU's secondary IS actually that good with Pegues holding down the fort there. So Bama will have to outmuscle MSU's DL and really get the ground attack going. If we have to throw the ball due to lack of blocking, that's MSU's only hope to win the game (see last year's 100-yd interception TD return). Hopefully JP Wilson makes some smarter decisions this year as well since that really didn't help our cause last year. Overall, he has made the wise choices so far, so I expect nothing less Saturday. Remember, this IS a different team and mindset these days. It's like the mental capacity of the current players are far beyond what last year's team had. We're slowly getting out Shula's regime and playing mostly Saban's new cast of characters - and it shows.

As for this game's prediction, I really anticipate Dixon getting a lot of carries, but I can't see him having a breakout game like he has had in the last couple of years. Sure, he'll get a nice run here or there, but it will NOT be enough to get MSU over the hump and win this game. Lee isn't making plays at QB, and their best WR has a very mediocre 430 yards on the season. Throw in the overall offense and you can see where that's a problem. Julio Jones has 630 yards of receiving, but Bama's running game has flourished - not to mention overall good special teams play. Also, MSU's kicking game is struggling as well (as is Bama's - so maybe that's a draw).

So count on another quick start by Alabama, but not too quick. MSU is going to sell out against the run and try to copy what LSU did to Alabama last weekend. That's the recipe - it's just a matter of whether or not they can mix it up and get it to work. And forget MSU holding Alabama's offense out of the end zone for the 3rd straight year. We WILL punch it in - period. Me thinks that Bama is going to have a decent lead by halftime, but not enough to keep JP out of the game in the 2nd half unless MSU just falls apart. Croom won't let that happen I don't think... he'll keep his team fighting, but in the end, it's just too much Alabama, especially at home and so much on the line right now. The Revenge Tour makes its 3rd of 4 stops and Bama should wipe up the blood after this one and get ready for its next victim - Auburn. There will be no getting "Croomed" this year. This team JUST won't let that happen at this juncture. Expect a tough game though - it always is against the Bulldogs. Let's hope we don't keep it too interesting, yanno? ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 34 - MISSISSIPPI STATE 10
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 32 - MISSISSIPPI STATE 7     (BAMADOG 10-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Margin of vicotory as expected, but Bama needed a strong 2nd half to do it. Defense showed up bigtime in 2nd half and Bama's running game finally got going in the 3rd quarter after a dismal 1st half. Bama took care of business and now heads into the off week to prep for AU and UF. Offense really needs some serious work though if we expect to come close to winning our next 2 games. Special teams were awesome. THAT is what I'm talking about.

#1 BAMA vs #15 LSU PREDICTION

Aight y'all... this is THE GAME we have all been waiting for. Only this time, the SEC West isn't entirely on the line, but instead, LSU wants to be the spoiler for the Alabama Crimson Tide. A win against LSU puts Bama in the SEC Championship game, then will just have to hang on for the last 2 games against Mississippi State and Auburn to keep National Title hopes alive before playing probable Florida. So a lot really is still riding on this game. A loss puts a ton of pressure on Alabama to break the streak of 3 teams that have beaten the Tide the last 2 years.

But as the LSU game nears, the players seem to be attacking this game just like any other. Sure it's LSU and the players are pumped (as are the fans), but it's still just another SEC game that's keeping you from getting where you want to be - the SEC Championship. This game could honestly go either way. BUT, based on what we have seen (not just LSU against UGA and UF), Alabama seems to have the upper hand. Let's take a look at some interesting stats/facts leading up to this game:

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. Lucky for us, LSU has Jarrett Lee as QB or this outcome might have been very different. Kudos to that HUGE interception by Johnson in the end zone in OT to keep a FG attempt from being tried.... and Kudos to JPW to hitting Julio Jones on the first play in OT. Lots of good moments and lots of downers, but in the end, Bama goes to Atlanta and keeps their chances alive for a National Title. ROLL TIDE!!

#2 BAMA vs ARKANSAS STATE PREDICTION

It's Homecoming at the University of Alabama, and Cornelius Bennett is the Grand Marshall. How awesome is that? He had one of the hardest QB sacks of all time against Steve Beuerlein and then a painting named after it, "The Sack". Anyway, I'm in T-Town now...(sorry for some of the late updates, but I'm having to go around town and see people and do stuff), and man, is the traffic getting worse here or what? On top of that, UA has nearly completely banned all on-campus parking for gameday. It's pretty ridiculous. Even during the week, it's about impossible to find an on-campus parking spot. It's like, let's tailgate at the mall and then ride a freakin' bus to the stadium. How lame is that crap??? There has to be a better way..... anyway........

As for this game, ASU is clearly the decided underdog. People have said this is a sandwich game for UT and LSU. I say WRONG ANSWER. There is NO way, 100%, that the players will overlook Arkansas State. Period. Bottom line. End of Story. Remember the Alamo? Well, Remember Louisiana-Monroe. Nuff Said. These guys know what has happened to them the last 2 Novembers and they are going to come out fighing to get this one overwith quickly and get the 2nd/3rd stringers out on the field in the 2nd half. As good as we'd like to believe ASU is, they likely won't score more than 20 points in the game... and I can definitely see Alabama scoring more than 20. The question is, what's the margin of victory going to be?

John Parker has played well lately, and Bama's WRs are coming along nicely along with the TEs, especially 2 big catches by Smelley as of late. The RBs speak for themselves as do the Offensive Linemen. I expect Bama to manhandle the ASU defensive line Saturday as their DL and 2ndary are not the strong-suit of the team, not to mention injuries they have had lately. Their LBs are decent though, so we just have to make sure we take them into account.

On defense, Bama is going to load up against the run (just like every game), and force Leonard to beat them thru the air. He has great feet too, look for them to do a little option and try to beat the inside rush of Alabama at times and get outside... that's where Rolando will be waiting. Their RBs are big too - 210 and 220 lbs... not the fastest, but definitely strong. We're going to have to wrap up strong and take them down and not give them freebie 1st-down yardage - because THAT is how they like to play the game, just like Alabama. Eat up clock and keep the chains moving. The problem will be getting first downs. If Bama's tight man-on-man coverage can do the job, it should be a game where ASU gives up in the 2nd half, collects their check, and just tries to keep their team healthy for the rest of their conference schedule. A couple of years ago, Auburn beat them 27-0... I expect something similar this year, but the possibility of some bogus turnover or interception could shift some points in their favor. But if Bama runs like we want, it could very well be a shutout - which is what the defense is definitely gunning for this week. They want the goose egg on the scoreboard.

So look for more of the same of what we saw last week in the running game... dominating blocks up front with Coffee, Upchurch, and Ingram all nearing or exceeding 100 yards on the day (each)... and from time to time, JPW will get the ball to the TEs/WRs when ASU finally loads up the box with 8 guys. I definitely expect some long-ball TDs too. ASU's 2ndary is suspect right now with injuries helping that cause, not to mention inexperience. And Bama should cruise into the 2nd half with a pretty comfortable lead... 4th quarter, the bench gets emptied out, and everyone but the redshirts will get in the game. We still need to be on alert though... but given what Alabama has done this year, and what happened late last year, I don't expect a 2007 repeat performance. The ONLY game that matters right now is Arkansas State, and you better believe that Saban has that ingraved in those players' heads right now. This could get ugly folks. Now let's go enjoy homecoming, and don't forget to find me in the pregame show. ROLL TIDE!!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 44 - ARKANSAS STATE 10
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 35 - ARKANSAS STATE 0     (BAMADOG 8-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: 14-0 lead at the half was a bit misleading since we left 10 points out on the field... but in the 2nd half, the Tide came to play and shut out the Red Wolves for the game. Average numbers across the board but a solid game by the team as a whole. Special Teams still need work along with the passing game... we'll need these to improve before going into Baton Rouge next weekend.

#2 BAMA vs TENNESSEE PREDICTION

It's time for the 3rd Saturday in October... Bama vs Tennessee. This year, the roles seem to be reversed a little with Bama in the driver's seat to play for the National Championship while UT has squandered their season away thus far. UT has had a brutle stretch, but no one would have ever guessed they would be THIS bad. They are getting horrible play out of their QBs, RBs, and OL. As it is, they are one of the worst offenses in the SEC. But lately, they seem to have gotten things going against Mississippi State, but even then, the defense scored twice which iced the game. The Vols are going to need an extra-ordinary performance to beat the Tide come Saturday because UT's skill players are not that great. We might even see Berry in the backfield in some sort of 'Wild Vol' formation. They are definitely going to pull out all the stops in a valiant effort to beat the Tide.

Alabama on the other hand, has been playing ahead of each of their opponents in every game. The Tide has only trailed Ole Miss by 75 seconds, then took over from there. With these quick starts, Bama has pretty much put away the competition early, even with the massive 2nd half comebacks by the other teams. It's like one giant tease... but we hold out at the end to slam the door. Last week, Ole Miss came the closest to actually pulling off the upset which I predicted could actually happen. I knew it would be closer than people thought with Nutt at the controls.

For this game, we play in Knoxville. Strangely enough, Bama has played better on the road this year. I definitely look for more of the same. But Bama will have to be able to run the ball successfully this weekend because if Alabama has to throw, we could be in trouble as UT's secondary is the one bright spot of the Vols' team this year. The line has to block and be ready for some 8-man fronts because UT is going to bring the house. Ole Miss did that and that's what got them back in the game. Wilson has to be precise and get the ball to OUR guys and not get hit blind-sided. Hopefully our OL can hang tough and do what we did to them last year. Crompton has been replaced by Nick Stevenson who has yet to throw a pick. He'll likely play it safe unless he has to throw - and that's what Bama wants to happen... and that's when the interceptions will happen as long as we don't get beat by Denarius Moore. The rest of Bama's defense will need to step up their play as Cody is out for at least 2 weeks. Last week, Ole Miss ran it right up the middle when Cody left the game... I'm quite sure that Nick Saban has a plan in mind in order to counter this hole in the defense. Look for more 4-man fronts to help stop up the gaps and we'll continue to have man-on-man coverage in the 2ndary.

As for predicting this game, I think Bama has a chance to make a statement again on the road... and in a big way. We are playing a less experienced team (hard to believe) and quite honestly, it shouldn't be close. BUT this IS the SEC, and this IS Neyland Stadium - one of the biggest and loudest in the country. If we can take out the crowd early, it should be smooth sailing. If not, we could let the Vols creep back in the game and catch us off guard - something we REALLY don't need at this time. A win here and an LSU loss against UGA will really go far in getting Alabama back to the SEC Title game. Saban knows what's at stake (National championship game) too... and he will do everything possible to keep the team focused. Coffee and Ingram have big games while Bama's secondary make a statement here... but as usual, Bama gets a little lazy late in the game and gives up some late scores.... but Bama should push to 8-0 heading into Homecoming week. ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 30 - TENNESSEE 17
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 29 - TENNESSEE 9     (BAMADOG 7-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Bama played for 4 quarters for the first time all year. It was tight early on with UT playing very good defense, but too much Bama (finally) in the 2nd half as we closed the door on the Vols. The biggest blemmish was Javier's fumble in the 1st half on the punt return. Other than that, pretty sound game in all facets of the game. With the LSU loss to UGA, all Bama has to do now is win at LSU in a couple of weeks and Bama's a lock for the SEC Championship Game. ROLL TIDE!! Keep it up!

#2 BAMA vs OLE MISS PREDICTION

This week, Bama plays host to the Ole Miss Rebels, a team that Bama has had a lot of trouble with the last few years, but always seems to come out on top. Not since the Eli Manning days has Bama floundered against the team from Oxford. This Saturday, we SHOULD see more of the same team beating Ole Miss.

BUT, expect a very good defensive game and the possibility that Bama and Ole Miss total 40 points or less. It's always a tough grind-it-out type of game - and with Houston Nutt bringing his offense to Oxford, expect an even tougher game this year than the last few. That's the thing about Nutt teams - they never give up, and they play you until the buzzer sounds (see Arkansas last year). The positive thing Bama has going for them this week is the fact that Bama's athletes are finally catching up to everyone elses in the conference. Last year, with a VERY weak Bama squad, we still managed to beat the Rebles in Oxford 27-24. This year, Bama's line is a lot more experienced and dominating, the RBs are running better, and JP Wilson has improved (even if it's slightly). Bama's defense is faster, smarter, and playing without a lot of thinking - more instinct now.

The game could get out of hand by Alabama jumping on Ole Miss early, but should Ole Miss grab a lead, it will be interesting to see if Alabama can stay poised and make a comeback as they haven't had to do so all year.

Alabama has outscored their opponents 88-0 so far this year in the 1st quarter. Hopefully we'll see more of the same. A good reason for this is the fact that we TAKE the ball first to start the game. In each game we have won the toss this year, we have chosen to receive the ball to start the game. Each of those games except for UK, we have scored on the first drive... In the UGA game, they won the toss and still opted for Bama to get the ball first... we scored then as well. And once we get ahead, we stay ahead. If these other coaches play Alabama, I would try and just get inside the head of our team and take the ball first - see if they can score and get Bama behind. As it is now, we get the ball, score, and don't really look back as the defense has a lead to protect the rest of the way.

Keep in mind that yes, Ole Miss beat Florida in the swamp. Ole Miss was never really out of it - and Florida kept them in the game, not to mention a costly turnover by UF in the 4th quarter that allowed OM to catch up in the last minutes of the game. UF's kicker ended up costing them the game.

But for Bama this weekend, I just hope that this week off hasn't actually COST us a little momentum. That can happen at times... but keep in mind also that Ole Miss also had a bye week - so everyone is on an even playing field except for current season records. Bama has much more to lose, yet a lot to gain in the national picture. I look for Bama to play very hard-nosed defense and to put pressure on the Rebels running game, especially in the Wild Rebel formation. I hope they look for the HB pass too... because it will eventually happen.... they'll run an option play with the RB and then find a wide-open WR downfield for either a long gain or TD... we just have to remain focused and not get sucked in to Nutts mumbo-jumbo trick plays. Saban will have them ready... it's a matter of them putting it in play on the field which I believe they will do.

In predicting the game, I see Bama's running game doing average, and Ole Miss forcing JP to air it out to get 1st downs. If John Parker doesn't have his A-game, Ole Miss could pull off the upset. Bama's D will have to play top-notch as there could actually be a lot of punting in this game, in which case, I say go Javier! Let's hope we have cleaned up the Special Teams errors of the last couple of weeks and keep the winning streak alive. Rebs don't back down, but in the end, Bama should win this one and go to 7-0 for the season, and extend their SEC West lead and remain the only undefeated team in the SEC. ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 24 - REBELS 17
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 24 - REBELS 20     (BAMADOG 6-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: A CLOSE game just as I expected. Nutt's teams always play Bama close and today was no exception. Bama's wheels fell off yet again in the 2nd half, scoring 0 points in the 2nd half for the first time this year. Something has to be fixed here. Defense played like a madman - and now we just have to hope that Cody can come back from this injury. He was the anchor of that stingy defense. If he can't return this season, Saban's going to have to do some serious adjusting on defense because once he left, Bama didn't pressure the QB much at all. Bottom line is BAMA WON and is 7-0. And the first time Saban has ever started 7-0 too. ROLL TIDE!

#2 BAMA vs KENTUCKY PREDICTION

Tomorrow, Alabama has its hands full again with their 3rd straight undefeated team in 4-0 Kentucky. Sure Kentucky hasn't really played anyone, but when they do play, they are shutting down their opponents. They have played at Louisville, and won at home against Norfolk St, MTSU, and Western Kentucky (the common opponent). UK beat WKU 41-3 while Bama won 41-7, so eh.

So Kentucky will come into Bryant-Denny Stadium and try to pull off the upset. Will it happen?? Likely not - not even when the Tide was down did Kentucky beat the Tide. They have only won against Alabama 2 times in the HISTORY of football. And with Kentucky being unproven, and Bama already proven what it can do (and on the road at that), I see a pretty big blowout. The crowd will be loud, and Kentucky is going to have to fight against a couple of lines that have given every team trouble so far. UK's defensive line will do what they can, but they are definitely undersized up front. Bama's D-Line will try and exploit UK's inexperience OL as well (see Georgia). And the thing is, is that UK's QB, Hartline, is doing enough to win games this year, but the game hasn't been put on his shoulders. Well - it will Saturday because Bama's run defense is literally going to give UK a black eye up front. Once that happens, look for Bama's 2ndary to start making some tries at interceptions and turn the game quickly in favor of the Tide.

The other thing Kentucky is lacking in right now - WRs that can actually catch the football consistently. Lyons is the only really go-to guy the Cats have. Everyone else is average at best. We just have to make sure we don't get sloppy and give up some freebies. Everything in this game really favors Alabama in this one - even Special teams, crazy as it seems. UK have some dynamite kick returners, and that will be key for them - but I look for a lot better play this week as Special teams have really been a focus at practice this week. Even with McCoy out this week (possibly), Bama is still stacked enough at the WR position to do what it wants against Kentucky. UK will make some plays and might actually intercept John Parker in the 1st half... but once Bama gets the lead, look for a lot of run, run, run... then McElroy and company to come in the 4th quarter and get some easy snaps handing the ball off. No way can you logically pick Kentucky for this one. Bama at home, the noise, 1st SEC home game in 2008, #2 ranking, Saban keeping them grounded, OL domination, swarming defense, run defense has been stellar. UK has wins over cupcakes while Bama has PROVEN, even to the computers, that it's one of the best teams in the country. Saturday will just be another chance to prove that point and drive the record to 6-0 - oh, and Bowl-Eligible. Didn't think we'd be that far so soon, now did we?

Here's to a good game by the Tide, and one the Tide SHOULD dominate out of the gates. UK could squeak out a return for TD or a sloppy fumble for TD - Kentucky's Defense is NOT all bad seriously... but against our defense, UK won't get to 20 and Bama will. Bama wins big.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 34 - CATS 10
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 17 - CATS 14     (BAMADOG 5-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Closer score than the game really was. The Bama defense owned the game for the most part... Special teams still needs work, and so does Bama's air offense. But a Win's a win, and it's better than losing to Vandy 13-14, right? ROLL TIDE!

#8 BAMA vs #3 GEORGIA PREDICTION

What to do .... what to do.... what to do............ I have been flip-flopping over this game all week long and I'm STILL not certain what will happen Saturday. The teams are so even, that it's impossible to make a pick. Can I call a 20-20 tie?? Wow - there's a lot going on this week with this game. ESPN College Gameday will be in Athens; Georgia will be wearing black jerseys; Alabama plays in its first real tough game away from home (Clemson ended up a dud); and this game has huge national title implications along with SEC title hopes as well. There's just so much going on and so much riding on this game this early in the season. If Bama wins this game, we will likely be favored to win each of the next few games up to LSU... if we lose, we're still alive in the SEC West, but at that point, there is no room for error.

So as for this game, as I flip-flop even as I type this, let's start with the defense. This is an easy one. Both defenses have risen to the occasion; both are fast; and both swarm to the football and make plays. The difference is that Bama has a little more knack at getting in the backfield and causing more pressure up front with Mount Cody leading the way. Teams are not getting a lot of rushing yards against either of us. Bama has stifled the line in each game they have played while Georgia has stuffed each team they have played and force them to air it out in comeback situations. If I had to give an advantage here, it would be Alabama, but only by a 51 to 49 percent difference. It's that tight.

Special teams definitely favor Alabama with solid kicking from Leigh Tiffin and superb punt and kickoff returns by Javier Arenas. The slapper here is the Bama kickoff coverage team - that's where UGA could possibly hurt us. If we can manage our kickoffs (assuming we score, right?), we should be in good shape to compete in the game. If not, it could spell doom for the Tide.

The most difficult position to figure out are the offenses. Bama hasn't really been tested this year. That's where something like this is so hard to figure out. Bama has never trailed... while this has been going on, the running game for Bama has eaten up the opposing defenses. No one so far has really been able to stop the Tide running game. The Bama OL has made sure of that, regardless of who is running the ball. Coffee, Ingram, and Upchurch have all done well, and that could be huge for Bama on Saturday as we'll need to keep fresh legs in the game against that Georgia defense. UGA's RB, Morena, is one of the nation's best. Last year,the Tide held him in check... but this year, the Dawgs have an extra weapon on offense that will keep them busy - A.J. Green. Don't think we'll be putting 8 in the box Saturday as we'll need that extra safety to help with pass coverage. And that's where the main difference in this game lies - at QB.

Matthew Stafford is one of the best QBs in the SEC (and the nation). He doesn't do a lot of flashy things like Tebow - he just does his job. And though his speed is not outstanding, he makes up for it with his ability to find open WRs and pinpoint accuracy in his throws. On the flip side, JP Wilson has struggled mightily with the long ball and fade routes, and also hasn't been tested this year to come back from behind. He did well last year to comeback in the Georgia game, so I presume he should be able to do it again should the case arise. Time will tell if he can play in the big game AWAY, and make plays to keep Bama's drives alive. Advantage definitely goes to Stafford here while honestly, the RBs are a push. Bama's 3-headed monster is as good as Moreno - maybe not with pure speed, but with vision and sheer toughness and ability.

At WR, Georgia has Green and Massaquoi - and both are VERY GOOD. Bama has Jones and McCoy/Alexander/Maze/Scott/Stover. The latter combination is just that - they are all about on the same level. Jones would definitely be the go-to guy, but he still hasn't been in a situation where he HAD to be the man... but I think given the chance, he'll make some plays for us. Advantage goes to UGA here.

Overall, Bama's defense is suspect. We have allowed a lot of yards (see Arkansas carving us up), but we have also kept points off the board, which is THE ONLY thing in determining the winner of the game. Georgia has done the same thing - tough defense, and allowing only one team to score 21 points, and 14 of those were in mop-up duty at the end of the game against GA Southern. S. Carolina scored 7 (and fumbled a game-tying TD) while ASU scored 10 last weekend.

Bama hasn't let any team score more than 10, except for the Hogs last weekend which scored a late-game mop-up duty 4th-quarter TD as well - otherwise, 7 points would have been given up. So defensively, you can see how the Tide possibly edges out the Dawg by a hair.... on offense, Bama has played clock control with a more-than-solid ground game. JPW hasn't throw a lot of passes, only because he hasn't HAD to. Georgia hasn't had to throw a lot either, but did have a close game against S.Carolina in which they pulled thru to win.

So trying to figure out who will score and who won't is the tricky part. I think Georgia definitely has the tools to burn the Tide deep. With A.J. Green's skill, height, and pure speed at wideout, he will get past the Alabama secondary, especially with Stafford strong and accurate arm. Where Bama has to be careful is the screen game. We need to do the same thing we did in the Clemson game, else the RB screens to Knowshaun Moreno is going to burn us bigtime. We have to be able to identify when the screen is being setup, and hopefully the players figure that out this week at practice. The other thing is tackling, which the Tide didn't do so well last week in Fayetteville. Saban has already addressed this, and YOU KNOW he has drilled it in these guys to start WRAPPING UP the ball-carrier. I can't say how frustrating it is when one of our guys just bumps the other guy, only to see him gain another 5+ yards. I expect to see a little better tackling this week.

So it's speed vs speed. Can Moreno get outside on Bama's LBs and make the big runs... can the speed of UGA's WRs burn the Tide deep or burn us with the crossing routes? How will Wilson play in a game where he may be forced to throw the ball downfield? Can Bama's OL man-up and manhandle the UGA DL like they have the last few games... and how will UGA's inexperienced OL handle Mount Cody and the blitzing defense the Tide throws at them? Yes Yes and Yes. :) It will ALL happen. Both teams will exploit the weaknesses the other team has. But in the end, I don't know if Bama's running game will be able to sustain the kind of game it wants and keep our defense off the field. Last week, Bama's defense was tired and couldn't get off the field after 3rd down. With a more experienced QB in Stafford, it could be a long day for Bama's defense. If we catch a break here or there though, Bama could have a good finish. A solid JPW day gives the Tide the win. A JPW that throws an interception or two could spell the difference in winning and losing this game. JP surprises us and somehow even completes a long ball perhaps... Wow... the moment is here. Let me flip my coin........ (just kidding).

I look for Bama to play WITH the competition as it always does, and for once, Bama comes up with JUST enough plays and JUST enough offense to win a game that could honestly go either way. Here's hoping that Georgia suffocates in those black uniforms and negates any home-field advantage they will have. Aight - I'm done. Did ANY of that even make a remote bit of sense????? ROLL TIDE!

PREDICTION:      BAMA 20 - GEORGIA 17 (in Overtime)
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 41 - GEORGIA 30     (BAMADOG 4-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Anyone who watched the game knows the game was never really in doubt as the Tide crushed Georgia 31-0 by halftime. Who knew?? I'm now a believer. Bama still has to be careful the rest of the way, but a very good and commanding win against a very good #3 UGA team. I expect the Tide to move up to #2 or #3 in the polls released tomorrow. What a great game... it WAS a blackout game - and Georgia was K.O'd and got blacked out. ROLL TIDE!

#9 BAMA vs ARKANSAS PREDICTION

Even though Alabama is ranked #9 in the country this week, we should expect nothing but the best the Hogs have to offer. It's always a tough game, but now the difference is that Houston Nutt is no longer at the controls, and McFadden/Jones are gone along with Monk at WR. Arkansas doesn't have a decent FG kicker and their 2ndary has been very suspect. If not for a missed FG by LA-Monroe in the last quarter, Arkansas would have lost that game.

So Bama shows up and the crowd is loud - deafening actually. I have been to 2-3 of these Fayetteville games, and I'll be at the one tomorrow as well.... but this year, the Tide takes it to the Hogs like they haven't done in years. Of course, we all remember last year's game where we had a 21-point lead at 2 different times during the game and still had to come back at the end of the game to win. Casey Dick will keep them in the game early, but this year, it's too much Tide. Arkansas is just lacking in talent and will be lucky to score 14 quite honestly... they will only get THAT, if Wilson and the Tide turn it over and play sloppy... so the question is, can Bama score 15? Given the OL is intact with the running game flourishing behind Coffee and Ingram... and Wilson seems to be getting in stride as long as he doesn't throw the deep ball... we should be ok. Tiffin is 2 years removed from his 2006 debacle in Razorback Stadium and hopes to leave Fayetteville this time having done his team good this time.

I'd say that if Nutt was still at Arkansas, it would be a close game. With new head coach Bobby Petrino there and their offense still learning the system along with attrition of serious talent, Bama will have to GIVE it away for Arkansas to win. We have been known to do that in the past, but this looks to be a better year - and so far, it hasn't been pretty for Arkansas so far having played 2 mediocre teams and barely winning. Look for the Tide to roll though it could be close if our guys let the crowd keep the Hogs in the game. We just have to stay focused and everything should take care of itself....

PREDICTION:      BAMA 23 - HOGS 7
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 49 - HOGS 14     (BAMADOG 3-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: It was another one of those games no one really thought would happen. 49 points?? No FG attempts even?? Wow - Bama's on a roll right now. Let's hope we can keep it up.

#11 BAMA vs WESTERN KENTUCKY PREDICTION

Like last week, who in their right mind would even pick the Hilltoppers to beat the Crimson Tide at home. You won't see it here either. Western Kentucky "has" the ability to beat the Crimson Tide, but I don't believe they will. WKU just joined D-I a couple of years ago and are still trying to gain ground on the more talented D-I teams... not to say they couldn't pull an Appalacian State because they can if we're not ready. It's still 11-on-11 when it comes down to it; it's a matter of WHO executes. Will the Bama that executed against Clemson show up Saturday, or will the Tide that didn't execute against Tulane show up?? If we bring the Tide-Tulane team to play, we could get beat... but I don't see that happening after this good week of practice and Saban preaching that each week is only one game - and you can't live the whole season in week 1.

I fully expect the Bama offense to click with most of the OL back at full force, especially with Smith back at LT. The shifting around of the OL has ALWAYS thrown a wrench into Tide gameplans in the past, and the outcome has never been good (except for UT last year). Even with Marlon Davis out (should he sit), at least we don't have players moving around a lot... Smith is definitely the biggest concern.

And though I don't think it will happen, I believe Mark Ingram should start against the Hilltoppers. He has proven that he is a very reliable RB and he honestly deserves the start based on what he has done already this year. Hopefully, JPW can get back on track and we can get greased up for the rough SEC schedule ahead, not to mention getting in some 2nd-teamers, especially Greg McElroy. He needs more reps than anyone... one, in case JPW goes down, and two, he and Jackson will likely duke it out for next season since JP will graduate.

But back to this game...Based on practice this week, and the team being a bit more focused, AND our players getting healthy, I see the Tide winning, and that's the bottom line. I'm not sure if the spread will be covered (28 by Vegas), but it will be in dominant fashion if we don't let their spread offense carve us up for 2-3 TDs. It could be a 31-0 game... and I can see it also being a 28-24 game in all honesty. We just don't blow people out - even the pansy teams. We don't quite have that killer instinct yet, and we still play down/up to the competition. Based on that, I expect Bama to win by at least 10 points, but not by more than 21. Once the game is in hand (if it comes to that), I really hope to see McElroy get some snaps... We need to show up Saturday because it only gets tougher from here on out. I think Ingram has a big day, and Javey could have another breakaway game on special teams.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 34 - WESTERN KENTUCKY 17
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 41 - WESTERN KENTUCKY 7     (BAMADOG 2-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Bama got the dominating win they needed, and 2nd/3rd-teamers were able to get in the game which will benefit us in the future. Give credit to WKU as they avoided kicking the ball to Javier Arenas after he burned them a couple of times.

#13 BAMA vs TULANE PREDICTION

Week 1 is in the books, and now Bama comes back home to T-Town to play the Tulane Green Wave. Tulane has yet to play a game, so it's unclear exactly how they might perform. Everyone in the country now knows what Bama is capable of due to all the hype surrounding the Clemson game in Week 1. Alabama has practically swept every award known to man this past week and for what? Beating a team that was overrated to begin with? We shall see as the season unfolds...

But now, Tulane, after being displace for a week due to Hurrican Gustov, comes to Tuscaloosa to try and pull off the upset of #13 Alabama. Only a crazy & insane person would logically pick Tulane to win the game. Of course, ANYTHING can happen in this day and age, but I believe this team has remained grounded after the Clemson win and will take care of business as they should. The game has no meaning SEC-wise, but definitely has national implications and effects on recruiting. Letting up on Tulane should be the last thing Alabama should do, hurricane or no hurricane. The game still counts, so Bama needs to put their foot down, and keep it down. I'm really hoping that we can get a big enough lead so that some of the 2nd string guys, especially Greg McElroy, can get in some significant snaps in the 2nd half and get more game experience. One day, Wilson could go down, and McElroy has so far only performed in mop-up duty. He needs some real reps with the 1st-team at least.

BUT, if we don't take care of business early (ie. LA-Monroe), it'll be another long day at the ballpark. We'll be stressing out on a last-second hail mary play... man, I'm ready for those days to be over-with, you know? Anyway, I believe Alabama is just starting to get loaded, talentwise... we still have playmakers who are getting their feet wet, and this could be a coming-out party for Julio - who knows. Maybe B.J. Scott has a good game - it's hard to tell with Tulane having too many unknowns as Bama had last week.

The spread is 30, but Bama could end up winning by more if Tulane isn't careful... but with parity so even in college football now, I don't know if we'll win by more than 3 TDs. I think we have what it takes to do it though. The Clemson game was freaky, winning by 24 points and 0 total yards rushing after sacks.... I doubt that will happen again the rest of the year quite honestly... it was just one of those games. Tulane will definitely get at least 50 yards on the ground, but I don't know if they'll get too much more than that. Bama defense is going to crack down on the Tulane offense and make them pass to beat us. Johnson and Johnson better be ready to pick off some passes because I think we might actually see a few more blitzes this week by the LBs, thus causing a few more quick and errant throws by the QBs right into our elephant paws. Bama jumps out to a quick start and really doesn't look back... I'm really hoping Bama was really that good instead of Clemson being that bad. If so, things could be turning around for the Crimson Tide in 2008.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 41 - TULANE 10
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 20 - TULANE 3     (BAMADOG 1-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Super sloppy game with our only good play being Tulane having 4th down - since they had to punt to Javi. Other than that, the only bright spot was the defense, who for the 2nd straight game, didn't allow a TD. Offense needs some serious help on the OL - we need Smith back, and pronto.

#24 BAMA vs #9 CLEMSON PREDICTION

The 2008 season is here, and Bamafans are ready to see their team play. Everything is so limited in preseason regarding practice details, it's like striking gold when you finally get to see it. The 1st game will be against #9 Clemson in Atlanta's Georgia Dome, and it looks to be a very tough game for the Tide. As the game gets closer and closer, I can't help but feel that even my preseason prediction a few days ago could already be wrong. I picked Clemson to win that game, but I have an eerie (but good) feeling that the Tide could actually pull it out. But then I remember how we usually play in the regular season against decent non-conference opponents, and we haven't had a win like that since Penn State of 1989 (19 years). That's pretty sad. Even last year, LA-Monroe beat the Tide and they're not even a formidable opponent. So what does that say for the Tide in 2008? It's time to grow up.

Bama has hung tough with non-conf guys pretty well these last few years but always came out on the short end of the stick.... UCLA: 2 losses; Oklahoma: 2 losses; FSU: 1 loss... now we get a Top 10 team in Clemson. And they not only are a Top 10 team, but they also have the 3 top vote-getters of the All-ACC team votes. THAT is insane. Now we know the ACC is not as good (overall) as the SEC, but this team could play in the SEC. They ARE as advertised. Their knockout punch at RB and QB are undeniable. Throw in 9 starters on defense, and it's no wonder they're picked to win the ACC conference this year.

But here's where it gets tricky: the unknown. Clemson's offensive line. Bama's WRs. JPW at QB. Bama's offensive line. Clemson's special teams. These are all things that are huge in this game.

1. Clemson's OL has 4 new starters. REGARDLESS of how good Harper, Davis, and Spiller are, it ALWAYS starts in the trenches. If you don't get good blocking, nothing will work, period. We all know that after seeing Croyle and Wilson on their backs during recent LSU and Auburn games. If you can't block the DL/LBs, then you're screwed. Greenwood and company are going to have to make up what Gilberry did for us last year and get to the QB... force bad passes, and break up the Davis/Spiller running game. If we can do that, Bama has a shot.

2-3. Bama's WRs & John Parker Wilson. McCoy and Jones are the 2 prime targets for Wilson. We know they can catch else they wouldn't be starting. But how they perform in a game is ALL that matters. They will be seeing a different defense than the Bama defense, so it's a whole new ballgame as well. Julio seems to be everything that has been said about him and more. He's got good hands and a good stiffarm (gee, I wonder where we saw that). Other guys will catch the ball including the TEs, but these 2 WRs will get the most out of the passing game for sure.... them and the RBs possibly. The question now is whether or not JPW can actually pass the ball to our guys or to continue to throw the ball out of bounds. Most of the time when we had a fly pattern down the sideline last year, sure he didn't throw an interception, but he also didn't even give our guy a chance to catch the ball as most of his balls sailed out of bounds (it's call the Andrew Zow syndrome). If he can start keeping the ball IN-BOUNDS, we might be successful - because our guys know how to catch the ball. Now it's time to make the connection and be consistent with it.

4. Bama's Offensive Line. Sure they are all experienced with a ton of games under their belt and also having Smith, a future NFL 1st-Round draft pick... but it seems like we seem to flounder each and every year. I'm not seeing any improvement. JP seems to be on his back more than any other QB in the SEC, including Vandy and State. It's insane. Hopefully we come up with some type of plan that can actually block guys and keep our offense on the field. Moving Mike Johnson from RT to RG is a huge help as Johnson was stuck in molasses and was always outrun on outside rushes. Maybe now he can perform - we shall see... but as I said before, it all starts in the trenches, and how the OL goes, so does Bama. We have the upper hand here on Clemson, but not by much.

5. Clemson's Special Teams. They are susceptible on punt/kick returns, and that's where Alabama actually accels as of late with Javier Arenas returning kicks. He was one of the best in the country last year, and this year, Julio Jones appears to be his sidekick on kickoff returns as well. Very interesting to see a true freshman starting at both KR and WR. Obviously, the coaches know what they are doing... only gametime will prove correct or not. Personally, I'd rather see Julio stay off of kickoff teams - that's when guys get hurt the most due to all the speed barrelling down on each other in opposite directions. It makes for a pretty serious collision if hit solid, and we need his hands and experience on offense more than KR. But that's just my take. Along with poor coverage, Clemson's kickers are unproven as well while Alabama's K/P units are solid. Fitzgerald's average has gone up last year, and with some improvements to his technique in spring and fall practice, he hopes to up that number even more. Tiffin is also getting better after having a rocky 2006 season.

All in all, it should be a tight game. Bama will either win by a hair, get slaughtered, or lose by a hair. No way we blow them out - we just don't do that (or should I say "can't" do that). But like I said, the BIGGEST issue is in the trenches. Bama's DL vs Clemson's inexperienced OL and Clemson's DL vs Bama's OL that hasn't improved over 2 years. Maybe this is the year. It might be, but in this first game, REAL game experience is going to be key, and because of that reason alone, that's what it comes down to... and Clemson just has that extra depth and experience coming back from last year's team. Don't get me wrong - Bama's got experience too, but the overall talent level in the upperclassmen range just isn't where it needs to be right now on the Bama sidelines... but I think we keep it close... anything can happen on a rug, and here's to proving I am wrong to start out the 2008 season.

PREDICTION:      BAMA 23 - CLEMSON 28
ACTUAL SCORE:  BAMA 34 - CLEMSON 10     (BAMADOG 0-1)

Bamadog Post-Game Quick Note: Well, NOW that I have SEEN Alabama play, I can assess each game going forward a little better, right? All I have to say is TOTAL domination over Clemson tonight. Wow... this is something the Bama Nation & this team really needed. It was something I don't believe anyone expected. ROLL TIDE!