Does the list ever stop for this Bama special teams unit?? What is up with all that crap? I could go on and on and on and on and on and on and on about how bad we played on Special teams, but I'm not. I think the list speaks for itself and MUST improve. That was just the LOUSIEST effort I've EVER seen out of Bama special teams. It was to put it lightly, pathetic and pitiful. You take away these stupid mistakes, and Bama wins 37-6 at least. Maybe we get another score if we don't fumble that punt...but it does take their score away. How can we make a game we dominate for the most part so close? We missed 8 pts just on special teams. Gave them the 100yd return (6pts) and before, 7pts on the drive where we fumbled the punt. If we lose this game, I think the special teams coach should get the boot. There's just NO excuse for these types of mistakes. Of course, the fumble/missed kicks should be handled by the players...there's just no excuse for ANY of it. I just thank goodness we won the game.

Well, just checked out the stats, and go RB's and WR's! C.A with 141 yds, Riddle for 90, and Shaun for 51. And of course Freddie with the 8 yd scamper for TD for a 20 yd total on the day. We did however get big plays, which boosts that per/yd average, but the main thing is that we ran the ball well. We finally created some holes and played power Bama football. I will give Riddle credit this week for the great run, but he's still gotta get better the rest of the time. Not counting the 68 yd run for TD, he still averaged less than 2.5 yds/carry. He's still the 3rd man though, unless one of the Alexanders is hurt for La.Tech. They are just too good. WR's...mainly the play of Quincy Jackson. He had 5 catches for 119 yds. But one thing that I'm most proud of is the fact that we actually CAUGHT the ball this week. We had freakin' butterfingers last week against TN...let's hope we don't get that syndrome anymore. Still have room for improvement though. We need to get Kitchens and the WR's on just a bit better wavelengthe and THEN we'll be dangerous. Something is just wrong with our timing or something. But we did find the open man though...good job. And before I go, just to prove the lack of tackling on our team...Avery had 148 yds rushing (not counting the 100 yd return for TD on special teams). Of course, I WILL say this: That guy looks SOOO much like Barry Sanders it ain't even funny. He put moves on us that the NFL would be proud of. And that sucker is fast as lightning. But we shouldn't let that stop us. We've got to learn to tackle better...but hats off to Avery for and absolute OUTSTANDING game. Wish he was on our side cuz he's a great back.

Next week: La.Tech for Homecoming. Let's not lose on Homecoming, Bama. We can beat this team...so just do it. NOTE: I will be at the La.Tech game in the student section, and will be in T-town for the whole week following HC, leading up to the LSU game, so I'll be making updates to the page there on campus when I get time. For HC, I'll be in the alumni band there for pregame on the field. I'll have on the red Bama hardhat as usual... I'll be at the LSU game as well in the student section. If anyone wants to meet with me for lunch or something while I'm there, page me at 1(888)898-4270...and punch in a call-back number...it's a free call. Take care everyone, and may the Tide Roll for Homecoming! ROLL TIDE!!

TENNESSEE - Bama can't "catch" up...Bama loses 21-38, (3-3), (1-3)

Defense - Gees, Louise!! Keep that adrenalyne goin' the WHOLE game. We always come out smokin' and rarin' to go and then we die for some reason. I listened in to DuBose sometime this week and someone addressed why we don't play man-on-man as much...his answer - We don't have the quality backups at corner, and playing man, you get tired, so you tend to play more zone than you want (paraphrasing). I agree with him, but when you get burnt as much as we are, and you're gettin' no pressure up the middle on the QB, someone has to step up and be able to play that backup spot so you can play man. It's no wonder we didn't get burnt for 400 yds+ Sat. Most of the time, we gave them 10yd. cushions which means and turn, catch, and run got them about 5-10 yds because we were so far back on them. That's NOT how you're gonna beat TN (or any good passing team ie. Awbun too). Some of the new guys are gonna have to play the position next year anyway, so why don't we go ahead and get them some experience so we CAN play man as well and cut back some of the passing yds.? If we don't play these guys, we're gonna hurt next year as well. Maybe we just don't have the talent, I don't know. Scholarship reductions DO hurt ya in that respect, so I can understand that. We've got to come up with a better scheme though if we have any chance to beat the upcoming teams (even La.Tech).

I remember 2 pass plays where PM threw into double coverage and STILL the WR caught the ball. It was awesome coverage, but we just couldn't get a hand in there. We've got to use our hands more. We are gettin' burnt way too many times. And again, I ask...PLEASE TACKLE, don't hit them and push them outta bounds like girls. If you're gonna play a man's sport, you have to play like men.... Now, as LB, ok, but could use better tackling skills as well. DL, man, not one sack all day. Maybe we're lacking in talent here. Our DL has been inaffective all year so far. Even with a Michael Myers, we're still hurting at this position. Somebody step up, PLEASE?!

Offense still seems to be sputtering and dying as usual. I can say usual because we have played like this every game of the season (minus Houston). The best drive of the day (Ii thought) was were we just gave the ball to Shaun Alexander and he rushed EVERY time and MADE TN make the plays (which they had a hard time doing). And then when they FINALLY focused on Shaun, we pass the ball to Ed Scissum for the TD. THAT was an excellent play call, one that is very rare. Shaun proved 2 things on Saturday - (1) He's the man when RUNNING the ball...he has legs like an ox and keeps the momentum goin' North-South. (2) - He can't catch very well. For a running back to be complete, he must be able to run well, block well when asked, NOT fumble, and catch the ball on the dump-off plays. Shaun can do 1 of these 4 very well...blocking has been a problem (as reported by the coaches, but I don't see the problem), running is the thing he does the best, catching the ball he has GOT to work on...catch the ball THEN run with it, and then fumbles. He seems to be a little bit fumble prone, especially when he's trying to get a few more yards. He's gotta tuck that ball away a LOT better than what he's been doing. He's been VERY lucky so far in that most of his fumbles have been recovered by the Tide. I think next year, when he is our main weapon, we'll see him improve in all of these areas. As for Curtis, yds/rush still down...Shaun is the man. Curtis needs to be used like TN's RB's as well coming across the middle for the short pass for big yardage. We tried that once, but had it deflected and Freddie caught his own pass. If we can get Curtis in the open field with the ball, he can be a real threat. Riddle, not one carry, which is good. He hasn't proved anything this year...will be good in FB situations (which he played in the TN game). He had one opportunity to catch the ball and he dropped it. We've just gotta catch the freakin' ball. Freddie - he had a good game dispite the stats. He had an interception (which was a bad decision, by the way on the double coverage pass), but it was like a punt which we were about to do anyway. He hit the receivers I don't know how many times, but we kept on dropping the ball. We musta had 10-12 passes that we just dropped that were right on the money. Freddie can't be at fault in this game. He was mounting a comeback, but when you can't catch, that's gonna be hard to do. Please, WR's, RB's...back to fundamentals on how to catch a football. We REALLY need that part of our game back!!

Special Teams saw a punt blocked on what looked to be little to no effort in blocking for Pope (That was worded weird). Anyway, I watched the rush, and it was like we had a screen or something planned, only they didn't tell Pope. :) Actually it's sad because there was NO way of him getting the ball off in time. C'mon guys...this is our MVP this year and THIS is how you treat him?? Gees, Louise... Anyway, Cunningham did well, and Diaz kept the ball between the white lines again (good job there!). My main concern with S.Teams is punt/kick coverage. How many more times are we gonna let the opposing return man back to the 40 yd line. Where is the tackling?? Man, what has happened to our team? Please get better, man...

Coaching - Too predictable, but even with the offense being predictable with Shaun running the ball, he made things happen, which really gives me confidence in next year's running game (if we get him the ball 30 times/game). Still need to go to Rutledge a LOT more. I think he got 2 passes the whole game. All Stars not being utilyzed is sooo unfortunate. It's really too bad we don't get him the ball more. See Carolina Panthers and how they get the ball to Wesley Walls a lot. You can really kill a team with the TE. We should try it. YEAAA!!! Only 3 penalties for the Tide Saturday. That was the ONE highlight that really made me happy. Of course, I'd take 30 more points even with 10 more penalties... :) For once, the defensive line stayed on their side of the ball...I was pleased about that. Coaches musta either said something or the players finally figured out that that doesn't help an opposing drive to jump offsides. Good job there.

OVERALL, a lousy performance. Only 200 and some odd yds of total offense on the day with a blocked punt, and people dropping the ball left and right. When will the nightmare end for Bama? It's looking pretty bleak for even a 6-5 season. Let's just HOPE we can come up with that. Wish I had better comments for the game, but not much really stood out as being "good". What was good, I've addressed already. One last thing, just remember, keep the faith, Bama Nation. ok? We're REALLY feeling the probation effects on us now, plus inexperience at the Head Coaching position can really hurt a team. We'll be back strong, so be patient (which is hard for most Bama fans because of our excellent past). Let's not jump the gun on getting rid of DuBose yet. Give him a chance. He has limited players and is doing the best job he can. No one's a bigger fan than Mike DuBose. He's been there, and he knows where he wants to take the program, even though we're not playing like it. Keep the faith...and Let's Beat Ole Miss this weekend! ROLL TIDE!!!

KENTUCKY - Bama gets nailed 34-40, (3-2), (1-2)

From what I remember 2 weeks ago, the team played like they wanted to win, but didn't want to win. That sounds dumb, but it's late and that's how I feel at this particular moment. We were pumped, but didn't STAY pumped. We would hold Kentucky to 3rd down, but not hold them all the way (they would get a 1st). This team has got to have some major improvements if we're gonna make ANY noise in the West this year. Conceivably, we can still win the west, even though there's a better chance of me becoming a woman. If Bama wins out and AU loses to Florida this weekend, we go to Atlanta. Only thing is that if that happens, we'll be playing Florida AGAIN to defend the Bear's record. In a way, I want AU to beat FL, but mainly for the Bear's record's sake. Anyway, back to Kentucky (what happened there?)...the offense sputtered, but still put up 34 points. When was the last time Bama scored 34 points AND LOST?? Our D can't be allowing that type of scoring or we'll never win that game. Tennessee is gonna roll all over us if we don't score. Their O is solid and so is their D. It MUST be a mistake-free game (man, I keep gettin' off the subject). Curtis and Shaun VERY MUCH showed that they are the men that will carry the ball the rest of the season. Dennis merely proved he was good the past 2 years, but better talent has showed up in the backfield. Nothing against Dennis, but he's not the best man for the job anymore. If Scissum can't play in a down, Riddle should be the fullback. And that's it. DuBose has finally realized that we can't rotate in 3 backs and get the production we need to win. Enough of that... that situation has been a given the past couple of weeks. Receivers - Chad Goss is awesome. He can do it all. Like I tell everyone, he is just the smaller version of Chad Key. He's got great hands, and he's one of the few players that uses his head, meaning brain. He's prolly the smartest guy we have on offense. Rutledge - throw more to this all-star!!!! We did better in the KY game, but he still needs more.

One quick question - why can't our receivers get open like the other teams? I mean, a "dig" across the middle is what we get burnt on more than anything on D, but yet we can't incorporate it into our offense. Something's gotta give. Our passing schemes just seem like little league style. Either it's the players can't get open (due to just being a bad play), or the coaches aren't coaching like they should. Whenever we DO get a completion (for the most part), it's usually a catch, then down right there. We don't seem to be getting many yards after the catch (except for throwing to the backs, and that only works sometimes). KY kept throwing to the backs all day long and got MEGA yardage. Something is wrong with our system or something...but that stuff's gotta improve if the O is gonna be successful.

Freddie Kitchens hasn't done bad the last 3 games. He hasn't thrown the big yards, but hasn't thrown for any turnovers. That's key to winning games...gotta hang on to the ball. This week will really be a challenge for him. TN's D this year is like the D of the Bama of old. They are very solid on D. Look for Bama to run the ball quite a bit more against TN if Shaun/Curtis can get some big yards on 1st down. But like I was saying, Freddie's been doing well, and in my opinion, if he's driving the ball down the field, there SHOULD NOT be ANY substitution at the QB position. I like to see Tucker play, but if we are on a roll and then throw a wrench in the engine, we're gonna sputter and that MIGHT just be the spark TN needs to get back in the game (if they're even out of it). Freddie's the man, and he's proved it the last few games. He's not the best in the world, but he's the best Bama's got right now. So stick with him and don't worry about making people on the sidelines (players) happy just so they can play. Remember, the best man needs to be out on the field.

Defense - very disappointed, but with all the injuries we had and the depth problem, I can see why we are struggling. If we don't get some key players back soon, we're in trouble. Oh, and #20, Sigler, again, he has GOT to improve his defensive skills. He had 2 int's against KY, but my grandma coulda caught them. He was in the right place at the right time. His tackling has GOT to improve. RB's WR's are making him look like a gnat as they swat him off of them. And what's up with DeShae Townsend? All-America? I think not. There were high expectations, but I've never really been sold on him because he can't tackle either, unless it's a quick out and the defender hasn't had a chance to turn around yet to run - then and only then will he make a big hit. He's had MANY chances to make picks on the QB but hasn't made the plays - plays that an All-American makes. Bryant has been more impressive in my eyes. DeShae, get some stickum on those gloves! And stop getting burnt deep. If the receiver reaches out for the ball, stick your hand up there and deflect it...don't let the guy catch it, then push him out of bounds...Gees Louise. :) Impress me, man...impress me. It's time to show why you are the man...Let's go! Roll Tide! LB's are doing an ok job. Pickett and Harris seem to be leading the bunch this year. When we blitz, we've gotta make sure we get someone in there. From what I hear, we will be using a 3-4 defense against TN. Against KY, we did ok and got to T.Couch a few times, but he still completed too many passes for my taste. We've just gotta cover better against the WR's if the D is gonna hold.

Special Teams - good job except that LUCKY freakin' block/catch to score the TD that put KY up. If not for that block, I think Bama wins the game. Cunningham has done a good job this season, but needs to be PERFECT against TN. 2 missed FG's against KY hurt like a bad boy. We hit those 2 FG's and Bama wins with ease. Just get that ball up, dude and we'll be ok. Diaz, good job keeping the ball between the lines the last couple of games. Good job. Against TN, we're gonna need that thing kicked outta the end zone though, so BOOM it! :) As for the Punter, Daniel Pope, this guy should get the Heisman Trophey. He's doin' everything he can to help out Bama get good field position for the D, but we ain't holdin'. We're gonna need his leg against TN if there's any shot of us winning...but so far, Great Job!

Coaching - play calling, putting the RIGHT players at every posistion...gotta improve and MD knows this. He's seen the RB situation and has done something about it. Good job there. Good job taking JDP out of goal-line situations too. He's still learning, so we need to take it easy on him. Remember, he's FEELING the probation this year. He's doin' his best...let's just hope he can make the right decisions against TN. As far as the rest of the coaches, something just feels "blah" on the field. There is NO intensity out on that field EXCEPT when they first run out on the field and the crowd is into it. If we get behind, we have a tendency to get down and thing the game is lost, even in the 2nd quarter. So far, the 2nd half adjustments this year have been good, we've just been giving the other team THE BIG PLAY to win it. It's like we control the other team till the VERY end, then give it away (see Arkansas & KY). We CAN'T do that and win games. Ya gotta play the WHOLE game. Boom-daddy, knowutimean? 'Nuff said.

Oh, hats off to the LSU Bayou Bengals for beatin' the Gaytors. I watched that game and was cheerin' for the Tigers like I was cheerin' for Bama.... I can't say how much I enjoyed that game. As for our game this weekend, we have to play mistake-free football and watch PM on the bootleg. On the goal line, don't be surprised to see PM fake the handoff and roll into the endzone untouched. He did it when he was a sophomore and I feel like he'll do it to us again this year....so watch that, BAMA. What else? Solid D (NO OFFSIDES CALLS!!), and a ball control offense will win this game for us. But the D HAS TO MAKE PLAYS or we will lose. If we have a chance at and int and don't get it, it WILL haunt us. It's time to step up the play... but deep down, I know Bama usually plays to the level of the competition, so hopefully we'll make a game of this. TN will score at least 21, so we've gotta find a way to score 30. This really reminds me of the '90 season where we were supposed to get CLOBBERED in Knoxville, but won 9-6 (I was there). If we win this game, that will be HUGE. Lemme tell ya, there ain't nothing better than beating a team that you aren't supposed to beat (see Arkansas & Kentucky). May the 3rd Saturday in October bring back those Bama victories! The Dawg has spoken...we'll see ya at the game! ROLL TIDE! I'll be in the student section.

S. MISS - Bama escapes 27-13, (3-1), (1-1)

Well, this week we still have a good bit to complain about, but at least we got a VERY needed W in the W/L column. Nothing is more important that that W. Like Gene Stallings always said..."I'd rather win ugly than lose pretty". How annoying, but yet how true those words are. It was definitely an UGLY win, but I think I speak for every Bamafan when I say "I'm just glad we won". S.Miss is a very good football team. Lots of high expectations were expected this year from the USM squad, especially how they played Florida so tough, or should I say, because Florida played so poorly. You have to admit though, that Florida was just getting greased up for the season. I think they are where they were at at the end of last year, if not stronger on D. If USM plays Florida next week, it's not even close...so enought hype about how USM is gonna give Bama a good game...THAT'S NOTHING NEW (except for '93 when we beat them 40something-0). Other than that it's always been a close game...and USM put up QUITE the fight, especially in the first half.

Since I didn't have to go outta town this past weekend, I headed for T-town from the Big D. I was a little sick, but nothing keeps me away from the Tide (well, almost nothing). Sooo, I drove out Friday and went to Birm. to sit under the upper deck in the student section (Thank you, Lord!) I was sick enough as it was...didn't need anymore rain on me. Because it was so slick and wet, I expected Bama's running game to come alive. It only sorta did. We managed to break the century mark, but barely. I think I'm rambling on too much...Anyway....Kudos to Diaz for not kicking it out of bounds on the kickoffs. Good improvement there...now if we can only learn how to tackle on special teams (ONE time we DID stop them deep...inside the 10 I think). In my opinion (IMO), I think John David Phillips needs to be utilized there. He played on special teams last year and did quite well. I didn't really check, but if he's not on special teams, and he's not QB'ing, he needs to be out there, cuz he's a smart special teams player. I think Pope should get the Heisman this year. He's got like a 41-45 yd average on a TON of punts. He's come up big for us this year, and could be our MVP for keeping us in good field position the whole game when we don't move the ball (which is a lot of the time, unfortunately). Excellent Job, Pope! Now, as far as tackling, we still suck there. I don't like to use that word (suck), but that really describes how our team tackles (special teams and a lot of times, defense too). FG's are still a plus so far this year. Brian Cunningham is doing a great job. He missed 1 FG, but at a hard angle, and on wet surface, even at 35 yds, it's not a given. But overall, he's done well. He can still get better though...and he will.

Where to go now...Offense or Defense?? Hmmm....We'll start with the lackluster side of the ball this week...Offense: Now, this is just my take, so remember that...it's just MY opinion. I didn't get to see the game on TV and have the convenience of instant slo-mo replay. So from a live view, here's how I see our O: Lucky. In the USM game, we WERE lucky. The 2 big plays on offense were luck and here's why (yes, luck DOES play a part in sports sometimes and these 2 situations apply):

1. The pass to Chad Goss just before the half expired - Luck or skill? It was luck mostly because from what I could see, the USM guy tried to swat the ball, but missed. Chad even had to wait on the ball to get there (not "in stride" pass). That gave the defender plenty of time to get there. Lucky for us, the guy missed it and the ball literally fell into Goss's arms. Not taking anything away from Goss either...he concentrated hard to keep the ball and not let the guy distract him, but it was still, IMO, a lucky break for us. But a very good job, Chad. We needed it...and you too, Freddie. Way to find the open man.

2. The pass to Shamari Buchanon...again, the guy practically tried to get defensive interference. He put his hands up and got a piece of the ball, and with LUCK, the ball floated up and fell into the hands of Buchanon. If the DB hadn't have tried to intercept the ball (just knock it down), we're back on the 40 or so. But again, good concentration and hands on the part of S.B. Nice play, Freddie. Found the long ball twice in one game...not bad.

I kinda expounded on that part of the game because that's kinda what kept the crowd alive...and believe me, it was pretty dog-gone dead thru 3 quarters with the exception of those long pass plays. (and the TD of course) As far as the rest of the offense....MORE RUTLEDGE, please! He is a Senior this year, and we are gonna waste his AWESOME talent. Use him more, or da Bamadog is gonna bite somebody! :) RB's...we ran the ball quite a bit, but I think that was because of the wet weather (somehow, other teams can pass in the rain, but we can't). I wonder if they ever practice with wet balls/gloves during practice. If not, I think that would be a GREAT idea...to see if how our plan of attack changes if it rains. Back to the RB's...they did "OK", but that's it. I was happy to see Shaun get more carries...but with the poor blocking of the OL, I'm surprised we got as many yards as we did. Of course, inexperience plays a part here (3 Fr. started). But that bunch will hopefully get better as the year goes along. It needs to be in top notch in 3 weeks from now. The TN defense won't be as kind as the USM defense (only 2 QB sacks). And from what I understand, OL'men like to run-block better than pass blocking anyway...so what's up? This is our biggest weakness I think. Our QB has experience, RB's, WR's...all have been there, but the OL hasn't. It's time for them to step it up, starting in the Kentucky game. WR's...did a good job, but we need to get more timing routes. That's how FL and KY are eating up teams. That 3-5 step then in/out--pass. The pass to S.B. from Freddie was a beauty. I was soooo pleased to see Freddie put some finesse on the ball. It actually looked nice from my seat. Nice play....but still wanna see more Rutledge. :) Oh, and hats off to Dustin McClintock. FR Fullback having a good year so far. He's getting the knod while Scissum is out and is doin' great. First TD pass of his Bama career...and he looks like a horse. Don't get in his way or he'll plow you over. He's not the fastest guy in the world, but he's strong...kinda like Kevin Turner. Good hands as well. Great job, Dustin....Now on to the D...

The Defense, well, played for 1.5 quarters...well, actually, no, I'm wrong there. They played the whole game...they just didn't SEEM to play till the end when we got some turnovers and played more aggressively. Maybe they got fired up at halftime...whatever it was, they need to have that intensity the WHOLE game. Just one question though...this hasn't been too much of a problem in the past, but has come up the past 2 weeks: How come our DB's (Bryant, Townsend, Sigler), don't get their hands up a lot more when the receiver goes for the ball? Maybe it's just me, but about 3-4 passes on 3rd down, all our guy has to do is put a hand up and the pass is incomplete. It's like we're on them like white on rice, but they still catch the ball because we're not really "defending" the pass. Somehow, the ball kept being thrown behind the receiver and the DB couldn't do anything...whatever the case, they need to get their eyes open and get those hands up. I will say that they make some pretty big plays, but so many times we get burned when we have an easy play to defend. Just an observation. STEVE HARRIS. Do I need to say more?? He's the man this year. He has really stepped it up big so far this season. Pickett has played great too, but Harris has really been a standout. Had 1 pick, coulda had 2. He's been the QB's worst nightmare so far (since Myers won't be able to prove himself as last year). Good job there, dude. He also got the defensive player of the game by TASN. Keep it up! OH! Almost forgot...I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO disappointed in our tackling. I was SOOOOO mad when Sigler had the guy IN THE BACKFIELD and had his arms ALL THE WAY AROUND the RB, and just let go, assuming since he grabbed him, he would just fall down. That was the MOST disappointing I was the whole game. He's about to get to the level of Feagin (and don't get me started there). I know these guys are young, but you MUST, I repeat, MUST learn to tackle and NEVER give up till the whistle is blown. I'm tired of shoulder tackles, and trying to swipe the legs, and pushing the guy....it's time to get down and dirty. This game is about blood and sweat (see NFL commercials)...you're gonna get cut, you're gonna get bruised up, but that's why you play the game...because you believe in it...and you live it. Don't ever think anyone is better...always think of them as the one you are gonna dominate. If we take that attitude into the game on D, and tackle like BAMA knows how to tackle, we're gonna be one heckuva defense. Too many times we have the offensive guy for a loss or a no-gainer, yet they spring loose and get 4, 5, or even more yards than that. Getting blocked is one thing, but to have a guy "tackled" and to let him go??? That's just inexcusable in my book. I know the guys are tired, but ya gotta still give 110%. Ok, I'm done with my halftime coaching speech. :)

DL, more penetration...nuff said. Stop the run and get to the QB, and we'll be alright. More big plays here would be good. Lastly, stay on your side of the ball (note: 5 off-sides calls). I noticed that 3 times (I think), the call was on Kenny Smith, the FR. Someone tell him to be intense, but to stay till the center hikes the ball. That one drive where they were just trying to draw us offsides (they were gonna punt if we didn't fall for it), they succeeded cuz we weren't thinking. The guys on the DL have to know the situation and what the offense is gonna try to do. Obviously with 4th and more than 1 yd, you could tell what they were up to...and we fell into the trap and shot ourselves in the foot...1st down USM. UGH! Gotta be smart and keep the number of penalties down. That almost killed us. DuBose said he didn't mind too much about the calls (on the SEC teleconference call)...that he wanted the guys to keep the intensity high. I agree, but I say keep the intensity high and BE MATURE football players. You've still gotta use that peon brain once in a while if you're gonna outsmart the other team. We need to improve there.

I guess I'm about outta air now...been venting quite a bit this week. I apologize for the late update this week, but I was sick the past couple of days. Don't worry...it WILL get updated if I'm in town...no doubt about that. Just keep on keepin' on... Up next Kentucky. Should be a good one. Couch is the next QB in the SEC possibly, and it's time to put him in his place (or he's gonna put us in our place). GO BAMA!!! Beat those CATS!!! ROLL TIDE!!!

ARKANSAS - Bama gets stunned 16-17, (2-1), (1-1)

My main problem with this game was the call for the 2-pt. conversion...it was a GOOD call...BUT:

1) Again, I disagree with putting in the triple option (or whatever) with a COLD quarterback in the game. Tucker was doin' fine and had a rhythm goin', and then JDPhillips comes in and gets a delay of game penalty. We just can't be putting a cold QB in the game in those types of situations. As I stated in my last weeks take...it would come back an haunt us...and low and behold, the Bamadog made no mistake there.

2) Even though you get the penalty, that doesn't mean you go for 1 just because you're farther away from the goal line. The situation is STILL the same: You are down by 5, so you go for 2. Doesn't matter where you are...you go for 2. As little scoring as we did, It had to be safe to assume that if we got 1 extra point, it wouldn't make any difference. Even if you miss the 2-pt conversion, you're in the same boat...a TD beats you. That was the first really bad coaching call this year (of course, I say putting a cold QB in the game is pretty bad too though). I think the coaching staff will learn from this...

3) 3 times JD Phillips has had the ball on the goal line and 3 times he has failed. I don't know if we'll be seeing JD down on the goal line anymore this season. I think he has proved my point 3 times now.

Defense: Tackle, Tackle, Tackle!!! I can't count the number of times we ran right by the Hogs' players, or either hit them, or slapped them with our arms, hoping they would fall down. I can't remember a game where Bama tackled SOOO poorly. Plenty of times we had them in the backfield or at least with a no-gainer, and we let them slip forward to gain 3-7 more yards or more. We have GOT to wrap up the ball carrier or we're gonna have MAJOR problems the rest of the year. And how easy is it for the ball carrier to juke and jive and make our players miss??? Our players seem to buy every fake thrown their way. I'm not just saying that cuz we lost the game. It's true. It was just very poor tackling on our defense's part...something I've not seen in a Bama defense in quite some time. We held them very well the whole game, but kept giving them hope...that's obvious as the score was only 17-16...but Geez Louise! Breakdown in the coverage at the end of a game where Bama usually dominates the 4th quarter...please don't leave a man wide open in the end zone anymore, PLEASE? That's not too smart, ya know... One player that really is not impressing me is #3 Michael Feagin. I think he's a SO. Whatever he is, he's got to play with more passion and intensity. He has a hard time tackling more than anyone, and has a knack for getting burnt (and not just this game either, but last year as well). But I guess probation is keeping us from having more/better players on the field, huh? I'd like to see more improvement in his play particularly. LB's...Pickett has really stepped up his play...granted, he's no Rudd/Staten, but he stood up that guy at the goal line 2 times before they finally stuck it in the endzone. Good Job Pickett....but we still came up short. DL needs to get more penitration AND SACKS! That's the key though...we get through the line a few times, but don't capitalize. Yeah, we did a few times, but enough. See N.C. defense and take notes. They are playing like Bama used to...but then again, they haven't been hit by probation and have a defense similar to the Bama '92 defense...so that would be hard to match. Our athletes just need to step it up. This is not Bama football. Defense : C (because you just don't give up the big play at the end of the game THAT easily)

The last phase, special teams, did OK with the exception of the blocked FG and a couple of missed tackles It's one thing to get a kick blocked up the middle, but to leave a guy totally unblocked to come around the side and block a kick with ease....that's unacceptable. Brian shoulda had the chance to get that ball thru the uprights...but instead, a missed assignment. Who knows if the FG woulda been good, but I'd like to take that chance when we come out on bottom by 1 pt at the end of the game. Punting - AWESOME. Pope's the man. He kicks a.. the ball, yeah, the ball. :) Diaz...good long kickoffs, but out of bounds don't help us much....just don't do that, and his game is perfect. Attacking the punt returner - when your kicker gives you a HIGH medium kick and the Bama guy has made it downfield and is 4 yds in front of the punt returner and you still can't tackle him, something is wrong. We had some decent punt coverages, but a couple of the guys on special teams don't understand that you don't have to dive after the punt returner...all he has to do is juke to the right or left and you're toast. Please make a note to either let the runner come to you (if you're not quick enough), or make the dadgum tackle. Special Teams get a C. Because they were just that: average.

Coaching: I think I've already mentioned about the bad call for the go-for-1 scenario. What else? Oh, just the decision to leave Riddle in the game too long. He's slow and runs E-W (for the most part). If he's not getting the job done, then someone else should be given the chance. Play-calling was rather predictable at times, but still needs to get better with WHO to throw the ball to...again, Rod Rutledge comes up. Need more play-calling for the TE. He should touch the ball at least 5 times a game. He's just too valueable to waste.

Overall Grade for the Tide - C - because we just didn't look any better. Bama was not out on that field...it's time to get our crap straight...and NOW. Sorry if I seem upset, but I'm just not accustomed to seeing the Tide play so poorly and lose like we did today.

I just checked out the stats and see that Riddle's stats are 2nd best to C.Alexander...well, the running game today just stunk up the field. 106 total yds by our RB's. Gotta improve that... That's all. Beat S.Miss!!!

VANDY - Bama wins and gets the shutout 20-0, (2-0), (1-0)

What else?...Freddie did ok except for the 2 interceptions. One interception in my eyes was ok...mainly cuz Dennis Riddle used his helmet instead of his hands to catch the ball...and the other one he threw down on the 4 yard line...we were about to punt anyway, so that interception was just as good (if not better than) as a punt, only a TD woulda been better. :) Tucker is still impressing me every game. Freddie better watch out or Tucker's gonna be startin' soon. He can pass, and he can scramble...watch out behind you Freddie! :)

The rest of the offense did well. The WR's did well in getting open and didn't have many dropped passes. Quincy Jackson (#7) had the best game catching a 40 yd bomb to get the Tide into scoring position. So far he's done well in replacing Michael Vaughn. What can you finally say about the offensive line? They are finally playing very well. They have only allowed 2 sacks on the season, both coming in the Vandy game. If they keep this up, Bama may have a good chance to throw the ball finally...giving Kitchens/Tucker enough time to find the open receivers. This part of our game is looking good.

The Bama Defense was stunning. 124 yds of offense was given up on the day, and that's without the help of All-American Defensive End, Michael Myers. His status should be determined hopefully by mid-week for the Arkansas game. 2 Linebackers finally stood out and worked hard...Pickett and Harris. There were some MEAN, and I mean MEAN blows to the receivers and QB in the game. They were hitting hard and letting their presence be known. That's the Bama D that I know. And not only did we hold Vandy to 124 yards, we also posted our first shutout of the season under Mike DuBose. I'm sure he was more than impressed with the defense. Of course, there is always room for improvement. Still, a few times, we didn't wrap up the guy in the backfield and he got a few more yards. That's gotta improve for one thing. Also, gotta cause turnovers. While tackling these guys, we've gotta try to strip the ball and intercept the opposition. ie. See N.Carolina's D. Our Defense is good, but something small is still not there...that little extra that makes a good defense great.

The kicking game was AWESOME FINALLY. Brian Cunningham, subbing in for the injured Plugner, did a great job hitting a 46 and a 48 yard field goal. I think it was a smart move on the part of coach DuBose at the end of the game and get another field goal...not for the sake of running up the score (a mere 3 points is not running up the score), but to give Brian more game experience in kicking the long ball. We might have a game later on that depends on a long FG. Smart move on the coaches part. I was hoping he'd kick the FG myself. XP's were all made this week (thank you!)...and the punting game (which was what the game was all about Thursday night) was good as well. Pope did a great job in getting the ball up and in the right place on the field. He averaged about 47 yds/punt. Great job! Kickoff return and punt returns were 100% better than the Houston game. We finally covered the kickoff returner! :) And what can you say about Warren Foust, who blocked a punt to set the Tide up for it's first score of the game. The O was struggling, so that was just what we needed to charge the offense (even though it was only charged that one time in the 1st half). 7-0 at the half is anything but great to be proud of, but our guys played hard and got the W. (2-0) ain't a bad start for the new coach...but the real test is coming around the bend come the 3rd weekend of October (YES, back on the 3rd weekend, and in B'ham!). That's gonna be his first tough test.

One other thing I noticed that I'm not too comfortable with is the 3rd QB coming in the game (J.D. Phillips). He's a great player, but when you drive the length of the field and then put him in at the goal line COLD off the sideline, that's not too smart if you ask me. In my opinion, Tucker has the same mobility of a JDP and has played a good number of snaps. It's good to get JDP in the game, but after that long of a drive, that could be costly if he's cold. You really shouldn't break the rhythm like that I don't think. Tucker and Kitchens will be gone next year and Phillips will be the man, but IMO, he should really come in the game when the game is put away or close to it. If we were to pull something like that at the Tennesse game, I would feel MOST uncomfortable putting a cold QB in the game at the goal line. Maybe I'm wrong, but that's how I see it...

That's all for this week's take on the game. Next is Arkansas who is coming off a loss to SMU. Looks like another down year for the Hogs...Should take care of business at home next week. ROLL TIDE!!!

HOUSTON - Bama wins 42-17, (1-0), (0-0)

Anyway, I got to attend the Houston game, and lemme tell ya...for a non-conference game (obviously people were mainly there to see the coaching debut of DuBose) it was practically a sellout crowd. I looked all over Legion Field and man, looked like every seat was taken from my standpoint. I was VERY impressed with the crowd attendance.

As for the game, here's the Dawg's take...

It was HOT, man!! :) Hot and humid, but a great day for football (any day is a great day for Bama football)...The opening kickoff was made and special teams did ok. Everyone's pumped at this point. We stop the Cougers 3 times with 3-and-out drives. That was impressive, but even more impressive, we also scored on our first 3 offensive drives and also intercepted a pass for a TD. When does Bama start out THAT good??? Well, it happened on Saturday, and I think I speak for all Bamafans when I say we were very happy to see that. It was a great game, but sometimes I wonder about the defensive intensity we lacked (as DuBose also mentioned). It was very obvious that the D wasn't as tenacious as it usually is. That will be fixed by Vandy time next week. On to the positions...

QB (A) - You HAVE to be impressed with Freddie Kitchens and Lance Tucker. The only reason the QB doesn't get an A+ is because of the fumble by JD Phillips just before falling into the end zone. That's something JD will surely be more careful of in the future. But anyway, the opening half of football was just unbelievable. We drove down the field running and passing like a REAL team. And Freddie and Lance engineered those drives to perfection. 3rd down conversions were also at a high percentage (compared to last year). What impressed me was Freddie throwing the ball away if the receiver wasn't open (I was cheering Freddie at that point), and then the play where Lance did a spin move to avoid the hard rush, then dump it off to C.Alexander for the TD. You couldn't have asked for much more of our QB's that day. They looked really sharp. If Buchannon hadn't slipped on his passing route, Freddie wouldn't have thrown his lone interception. That really wasn't his fault. Overall, good job. I look forward to this position being this good or better in coming games.

RB (A+) - What can you say about one of THE premiere backfields in the country. They don't disappoint, folks. Even with the absence of Dennis Riddle, there is NO dropoff whatsoever. Can you say "depth"? :) Curtis showed why he was last year's starter...and could very well become the starter by mid-season if he keeps up the job he's doing and DOESN'T GET HURT! If he stays well, Bama is ready for the running attack. Shaun is the other force to deal with. He'll always be in the mind of Bama fans for his 20 rushes for 291 yds against LSU in '96. From the looks of the Houston game, he's gonna break the long runs all season long. From what I see, he's just got that natural raw running back talent that it takes to make it to the next level. He's got the speed for sure, but needs to hang on to the ball just a little better. But normally, a very good guy to have the ball when you need to run the ball. Madden didn't play due to injury. Scissum played the FB spot...what can you say? Scissum is SO impressive. Good hands and awsome balance and determination when running the ball. He'll be a definite plus in our offense this year.

WR (A) - This position would get an A+ if Buchannon doesn't slip and cause an interception. That was pretty costly in a bigger game. Even with the absence of Michael Vaughn, the receivers really stepped it up. Goss had 2 big catches for 50 yds, and Buchannon and Hall made some snazzy grabs as well. Quincy Jackson, the new JUCO player #7 (replacing the old Kevin Jackson last year #7), played a good game as well. I've heard that he has speed and good hands, but unfortunately, he was only able to catch one pass on the afternoon for 9 yds or so. Hopefully, he will maintain a high level of play during the season.

TE (A+) - WHAT A CATCH!! Rutlegde just keeps on impressing me, even in the past when he didn't catch many passes. He's a great blocker as well. But what can you say about his great hands? The one handed grab from Freddie was definitely one to see on the highlight reel later in the year. We keep him healthy and we'll be ok here. We lose him, and there's quite a dropoff to the next guy. Great Job Saturday, Rod!

OL (A+) - The offensive line finally had a GREAT game. Freshman center Hogan played extremely well. There were no fumbles on the center/QB snap, and better than anything was the fact that NO Bama QB was sacked during the game. That hasn't happened in a LOOOONG time. They get the A+ for that main stat. Also, they made some awesome holes for our RB's to get thru. If they can maintain this type of play in the big games this year, we'll be headed for the Orange Bowl. Great job!

DL (A) - We had great defensive pressure on the QB's but need to lock up on tackles a little better. We have them in the backfield then let them go for a few more yards cuz we don't take them down immediately. Overall, a good game...let's just hope the suspension to Myers doesn't run into the heart of our schedule. We need him on the line if our DL is gonna be great.

LB (C+) - C is just that...average. They didn't play great, but they didn't play very bad either...they were just average. Again, we've got to lock up the RB's when we blitz. We make to many arm tackles and don't take them down in the backfield enough. We DID have some good plays, but it needs to be much more consistent. DuBose will make some changes here to make this group a little better when we face Vandy. Just a lack of intensity at this position for sure. Not as mean as last year. NEVER give up on a play! That's what I liked about Staten. He never gave up till the whistle was blown. I know there's a major dropoff from last year, but it still needs to improve. We'll see what happens in the next game to give a better observation.

DB/Safety (A-) - Our CB's generally dominate the game, but were burnt a couple of times. Of course most of those came at the expense of the 2nd/3rd teamers...the 99 yd drive in 3 plays was uncalled for. Regardless of what team you play for, you just can't give that type of yardage up. Sigler, who gave up the TD pass shouldn't have let the guy even get behind him like that. Something I'm sure the defensive coaches will improve upon. Bryant...awesome pick for a TD. Being one of the fasted guys on the whole team, no one was gonna catch him. Great job. Townsend played a great game as well. They didn't throw it to his side much, but he finally made some good tackles, and not as much "bump tackles". He will be tested later on in the season when we face Tennessee. Safeties played well, but still seem to lack intensity and speed. That could hurt us later in the season when a RB gets loose...we need to make sure tackles. Overall, good job in this area.

Special Teams (D+) - Two 40 yd returns after kickoff, and missed extra point. That's not good. Special teams don't really play as much, but when you make 3 mistakes, that's a high percentage to be messing up...thus the D grade. Plugner did a great job though. He got the ball up (except for that one XP missed) very well. He looks to be a good guy to have this year. Good job...just don't be missing XP's like that. It could cost us bigtime. As for the kickoff coverage team, changes/plans will change this area. Got to cover kickoffs better than that. No excuses. DuBose will correct this before the Vandy game. And let's hope that we don't allow them a fake punt up the middle this year, guys! :) The punting game and other aspects of special teams were ok. Pope did a good job punting the ball...ALL 2 times. :) But that's a good sign. Means the offense is doing something right when your punter doesn't have to work much. Roll Tide!

Coaching (A) - Playcalling was excellent. DuBose has the right idea...let the assistent coaches do what they do best. Make the 4th down calls and stuff like that. So far so good...good offensive minds are on our side now, and since we have the weapons, we can execute those plans. OL coach deserves a BIG hand. They did great...Special teams coach...well, they did ok, but will need to make the necessary adjustments for next week's game. I feel good about this year...looks very good.