Crimson & White Roundtable

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Tennessee Edition

2010-10-22T10:29:00.002-05:00

1. Alabama returned to the win column against Ole Miss, but did the Crimson Tide's performance show the needed signs of improvement we were hoping to see?

The outcome of the Ole Miss game offered a mix bad for Alabama fans hoping for a second-half, pre-bye week resurgence according to the roundtable.

"We looked as good Saturday night defensively as we have all season. Offensively ... yeesh," intoned DBH Dance Party. But Tower of Bammer wasn't even keen on the first part of that equation: "It feels like Alabama has the worst-looking good [not great] pass defense in the country, dang, we just got spoiled I guess."

While there were numerous observations of sub-par play, several of the respondents specifically singled out the coaching staff for criticism. "I’ve never been a big fan of Jim McElwain’s playcalling, and this season it just seems to be even more questionable," said Third Saturday in Blogtober (3SIB).

2. Tennessee has clearly taken a step back this season with nary a win against a conference foe but are the Volunteers still a legitimate threat in any phase of the game?

On the face of it, Tennessee is a mess. The passing game and running games are toothless behind "a patchwork offensive line comprised mostly of true freshmen," notes 3SIB and that's the good news when you consider the defensive side of the ball.

Still, nobody said these guys lack heart, observed DBH Dance Party. "They absolutely won't back up from anybody," he warned. "To beat them you have to punch them out. It's that simple."

And, as always, nothing can be taken for granted with The Third Saturday in October. "Can’t get run over by the rivalry factor tractor, like almost happened in the Opelikas last year too," warned Tower of Bammer.

3. What does Alabama have to achieve in this game to set the tone going into the bye week and prepare for the final month of the season?

The key priority, according to DBH Dance Party, is dominance on the line of scrimmage, particularly on offense. "For the past two seasons, this is a team that has made its living cramming the football down other people's throats. To survive the last month of the season, our boys must return to that mentality."

But all of the roundup agreed getting to the bye week unscathed was the priority for Saturday.

"Team has a banged up feeling, seen better days," observed Tower of Bammer. "Could be experiencing that same midseason skidmark." 3SIB was even more succinct: " Just. Win. … and don’t get hurt."

4. When you need to get your hate on for the Volunteers, what tried and true method do you rely on?

Tower of Bammer, as you might expect, has a special routine to get into the proper mood and 3SIB just looks over to the posts of his fellow bloggers to remind him of his priorities. As for DBH Dance Party... music may have charms to soothe the savage breast it can also serve to feed the fires of fury quite well.

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 8

2010-10-20T07:51:00.004-05:00

Alabama returned to the win column against Ole Miss, but did the Crimson Tide's performance show the needed signs of improvement we were hoping to see?
Tennessee has clearly taken a step back this season with nary a win against a conference foe but are the Volunteers still a legitimate threat in any phase of the game?
What does Alabama have to achieve in this game to set the tone going into the bye week and prepare for the final month of the season?
When you need to get your hate on for the Volunteers, what tried and true method do you rely on?

3rd Saturday in Blogtober 22/10
Tower of Bammer 21/10
DBH Dance Party 20/10

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Ole Miss Edition

2010-10-15T08:59:00.003-05:00

1) What will Alabama have to do in order to regroup after the loss to South Carolina and prepare for Ole Miss?

After the loss in Columbia, this Alabama squad's array of shortcomings were impossible to ignore any longer. Issues that had been chalked up to circumstances over the first half of the season were now revealed as serious problems. Both Picture Me Rollin and Roll Bama Roll agreed that the scope of the concerns requires a comprehensive solution.

"It’s hard to put a finger on one particular thing that needs to be fixed," said Picture Me Rollin. "And thus it falls to the leaders of this team to step forward and push where needed.

The consequences of failing to do that, says Roll Bama Roll, are not pleasant to envision:

"So as nice as it is to think that all we needed was a wake up call and all of a sudden we're going to get our act together and start whipping hell out of everyone in our path, until I see it on Saturday, quite frankly, I'm shaking in my boots over what a suddenly potent Ole Miss offense could do to us."

DBH Dance Party goes deep into well for analogies, evoking Rocky and pick up basketball, before chalking the loss up to inevitable forces beyond our control. The key, he insists, is benefiting from the respite it offers and returning strong.

Third Saturday in Blogtober (3SIB) is succinct on how the Crimson Tide has to respond this Saturday -- at least on offense. "Run. The. Ball." While Tower of Bammer hears the name Houston Nutt and things of one word "Trickeration" then urges Alabama to prepare for it.

2) How does the Crimson Tide match up against the ~~Rebels~~ Black Bears going into Saturday?

Most of the roundtable had to admit to a certain degree of ignorance over the details of Ole Miss this season due to not seeing very many of their games. "They have an athletic quarterback and that gave Alabama’s defense trouble last week," said Picture Me Rollin. "But beyond that, I’m just not schooled enough in what they run or have to work with."

3SIB sees an advantage when Alabama's offense lines up against Ole Miss' defense but isn't as upbeat about the matchup on the other side of the ball. But, even there, the disparity of talent lies in the Tide's favor. Roll Bama Roll is a bit more dour, noting "we don't match up too well against them because, if we continue to play like we have on defense, we don't match up well against anyone right now."

Tower of Bammer offered a terse dismissal of Ole Miss as a whole but warned "do not doubt the value of a bye week." While DBH Dance Party says a Houston Nutt-led team is certain to rush and a game involving the man is likely to have "insane things" happen.

3) What is the biggest area of improvement you’d like Alabama make in this game?

Half the roundtable -- 3SIB and Tower of Bammer -- advocated improvement on the offensive side of the ball and half -- DBH Dance Party and Roll Bama Roll -- said the defense must step up. The exception was Picture Me Rollin who took a more general view and said there must be an overall urged an advancement in "focus and intensity" as well as execution.

On the offense, the biggest change, according to Tower of Bammer, has to come with Greg McElroy. "The Rhodes scholar needs to shut down his frontal lobe and summon his inner-gun-slinging-retard." 3SIB said the running game has to return and wants to see both Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson "go over the century mark and get a couple TDs each."

On the defense, DBH Dance Party wants to see the Crimson Tide's line step up. "This team cannot continue to allow itself to be shoved around at the line of scrimmage, because it's making the rest of the defense seem much more vulnerable." Roll Bama Roll concurred noting that rushing the passer must improve.

"The fact that we have been so consistently bullied at the point of attack is just alien to watch after we've been so dominant the last few years, and I really don't even know why."

4) What are your thoughts on the Ole Miss mascot debate?

Picture Me Rollin sees the mascot issue as a canard, diverting attention from the real issue plaguing Ole Miss. "The elitist attitude of maintaining the Southern Aristocracy has got to die out before it makes any difference what their mascot is." While Roll Bama Roll was unenthusiastically neutral. "Its none of my business to begin with, so whatevs man. Whatevs."

3SIB, on the other had, offered one of the more creative alternatives not considered by the university: "just make Houston Nutt the mascot. He’s as animated as any of the actual choices."

The issue forced Tower of Bammer to make a difficult confession; "As a fan-fiction writing nerd, I would’ve changed my fan allegiance if Admiral Akbar had won out." DBH Dance Party's response suggests a similar battle for his affections.

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 7

2010-10-12T12:00:00.003-05:00

What will Alabama have to do in order to regroup after the loss to South Carolina and prepare for Ole Miss?
How does the Crimson Tide match up against the Rebels going into Saturday?
What is the biggest area of improvement you’d like Alabama make in this game?
What are your thoughts on the Ole Miss mascot debate?

Tower of Bammer 15/10
Roll Bama Roll 14/10
Picture Me Rollin 14/10
Third Saturday in Blogtober 13/10
DBH Dance Party 12/10

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: South Carolina Edition

2010-10-08T09:23:00.001-05:00

1. Did the decisive win over Florida answer all the questions about this Alabama team? Why or why not?

The demolition of a highly-regarded Florida Gator team last Saturday in Bryant-Denny Stadium was a defining win for the Alabama Crimson Tide, according to the roundtable. The bigger questions is where does this team go now.

"Now comes the question about attitude and commitment," notes Capstone Report. "Those questions will be answered during this critical stretch of October."

While the defense showed improvement in almost every phase against Florida, there are still opportunities for them to take advantage of, says Roll Bama Roll. "The one question that still remains is can we start getting some stops in the backfield instead of letting 5 yard losses turn into 1 yard gains because of poor tackling."

DBH Dance Party is even more dour in his assessment noting that the Florida offense outgained the Tide over the course of the game, particularly in the second half: "Not exactly putting a stamp on things."

Lastly, Tower of Bammer takes the opportunity to appease your inner 12-year-old by taking advantage of the linguistic similarity between South Carolina mascot and male genitalia.

2. What is the biggest concern going into the game with South Carolina next Saturday?

The fact that South Carolina has emerged as a power in the hard-fought SEC is testament enough to the challenge this game presents to Alabama, according to the roundtable. To do that means they play tough and will take advantages of any mistakes, making the margin of error for opponents razor thin.

"They are rested and looking for a signature win," Tower of Bammer writes. "The Cock faithful are looking at this as their chance to get a leg up on Florida in the east and punch their way back into the top ten."

Both Roll Bama Roll and Capstone Report say that if Steve Spurrier has some self control and commits himself to establishing the run, the Gamecocks may have greater offensive success than most observers suppose.

"SC has shown a commitment to the run with Marcus Lattimore," Roll Bama Roll says. "Even though they are middle of the pack in the SEC in rushing offense."

But the potency of the passing attack can never be overlooked in a Spurrier-coached team, admonishes DBH Dance Party: "Even if Steven Garcia is a massive head case and Steve Spurrier's ego inevitably gets in the way of his team being a true championship contender, for one week, there's no telling what might happen."

3. Should we expect the running game to have the kind of success it did last year against the Gamecocks?

Tower of Bammer is extremely positive on the prospects of the rushing attack against the Gamecocks. "Game plan all you want, I’m convinced that this is the best duo ever seen in SEC history." The rest of the round table is more sanguine in their assessment. As Capstone Report observes, the emergence of the passing game will likely eclipse the running attack this year. Roll Bama Roll agrees, noting that a reprise Ingram's performance from last season is highly unlikely, "Not because we couldn't, but because we shouldn't need to." DBH Dance Party puts himself on cliche alert by noting that the key to both phases of Alabama's offense is the performance of the line -- which he feels pretty positive about.

4. Last year someone should have told Steve Spurrier the end zone fade wasn’t going to work. What piece of advice should someone give the Old Ball Coach this year?

The roundtable agrees, Steve Spurrier's prowess in creating dynamic offenses is unimpeachable. "He's the same guy who basically dragged the SEC into the modern era of football 20 years ago," observes DBH Dance Party. Despite that well-earned reputation, the roundtable caution Ole Ball Coach in terms of his execution. Or, more bluntly, urge him to "stop being an idiot with your quarterbacks" as Capstone report puts it (Tower of Bammer is even more colorful in their phrasing of the same).

Roll Bama Roll, meanwhile, suggests the game may have passed the man by in their succinct recommendation: "The golf course is where your heart is. Follow it."

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 6

2010-10-06T19:20:00.004-05:00

Did the decisive win over Florida answer all the questions about this Alabama team? Why or why not?
What is the biggest concern going into the game with South Carolina next Saturday?
Should we expect the running game to have the kind of success it did last year against the Gamecocks?
Last year someone should have told Steve Spurrier the end zone fade wasn't going to work. What piece of advice should someone give the Old Ball Coach this year?

Capstone Report 08/10
Roll Bama Roll 07/10
Tower of Bammer 06/10
DBH Dance Party 06/10

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Florida Edition

2010-10-01T11:49:00.004-05:00

1. What is the biggest lesson we learned in the win over Arkansas last Saturday?

The number one lesson learned last week in Fayetteville -- perseverance.

"These are the champs," DBH Dance Party writes. "And they can rise to the occasion when it matters most, even if it's on the road in a game where very little has gone right for most of three quarters."

Capstone Report insists the outcome of the game is evidence how much Nick Saban's approach has altered Alabama's attitude -- both at a team and a fanbase. Even when challenged "the team can come from behind to win a game against a quality opponent." Picture Me Rollin then notes that this type of resiliency was something that was not in evidence very often in seasons not so far in the past but has happened with regularity since Coach Saban's arrival.

Tower of Bammer then breaks the romantic mood by insisting it was all about the halftime adjustments.

2. What is the biggest concern going into the game with Florida next Saturday?

Most of the Roundtable insists that Alabama's ability to execute on defense will be the difference on Saturday night. Getting off the field will be critical according to Capstone Report. "That means forcing and then winning third down," he argues. "It also means being fundamentally sound." Picture Me Rollin agrees on the importance of details in this contest, " It’s going to come down to who makes the fewest mistakes."

DBH Dance Party runs counter to the consensus somewhat insisting that the weight will be on the shoulders of Alabama's offense. "Arkansas' defense certainly helped a great deal," he writes. "Florida's defense will likely do no such favors." Tower of Bammer smells a trap -- that the Gators have forced Alabama to prep for not one but two inexperienced QBs.

3. Will this contest be a preview of this year’s SECCG? Why or why not?

Tower of Bammer is adamant on this issue saying flat out "This is the SEC Championship preview." The rest of the roundtable is a bit more circumspect.

Capstone Report says the fact that Florida and Alabama are the clear elite of the conference makes it likely but the uncertainty factor LSU brings to the table (tons of talent, tons of problems) make prognostication difficult. And, DBH Dance Party notes, Auburn is looking more legitimate every passing week.

Picture Me Rolling notes that the importance of this game has to be evaluated in terms of the next game on the schedule as well -- South Carolina. If the Crimson Tide survives the next fortnight things line up much more favorably for the stretch run.

4. What part of this week’s gameday experience are you most looking forward to?

Tower of Bammer forecasts copious amounts of hate flowing through the streets of Tuscaloosa and revels in it's most mundane possible manifestations. Drinking is also likely to ensue. Capstone Report puts emotion aside and seeks the sweet embrace of reason to understanding the possible outcome of the contest.

For Picture Me Rollin it's a personal Homecoming Game as his two closest pals from The Capstone will be on hand and the fact it's a huge matchup only makes it sweeter. DBH Dance Party seems less enthusiastic to watch the game with his siblings but is also expecting a great one.

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 5

2010-09-29T06:48:00.006-05:00

What is the biggest lesson we learned in the win over Arkansas last Saturday?
What is the biggest concern going into the game with Florida next Saturday?
Will this contest be a preview of this year's SECCG? Why or why not?
What part of this week's gameday experience are you most looking forward to?

Capstone Report 01/10
Picture Me Rollin 29/09
DBH Dance Party 28/09
Tower of Bammer 28/09

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Arkansas Edition

2010-09-24T09:27:00.000-05:00

1) What is the most important thing we learned about the Alabama team in the wake of the Duke game?

With Duke, the (lack of) quality with the opponent limited the conclusions that could be drawn from Alabama's trip to Durham outside of the obvious. DBH Dance Party noted that the offense is good, the defense is streaky and the special teams are a mystery wrapped in an enigma. In sum: "I don't think we learned a frigging thing in Saturday's game."

3rd Saturday in Blogtober also came to the inescapable conclusion: Mark Ingram is for reals. "Say “it was just Duke” all you want, but he looked quicker and more elusive than last year and the defense can’t impact that."

Yet, Picture Me Rollin said there is a lesson to be gleaned from the obvious. "This version of the Alabama Crimson Tide shows up to play every week regardless of who the opponent is."

2) What is the biggest area of concern in respect to Alabama’s performance in the upcoming game against Arkansas?

DBH Dance party was absolutely sanguine about Alabama's chances against the Razorbacks and claimed to have no concerns at all. Well... except for one or two little issues. "Our defense can't rush the passer, can't stop the run effectively, struggles to defend the pass and has trouble making sure tackles."

The always eloquent Picture Me Rolling summed it up thusly (and coined a word in the process): "There will be legion Alabama fans grimaced in agonizing butt tensioning when Mallet and company take the field."

Interestingly, while DBHDP cited the fact Arkansas was designed specifically for teams like Alabama, 3rd Saturday in October noted that the converse was true as well. The noted weaknesses in the Crimson Tide attack -- run defense, third down conversions -- were matched against noted Razorback weaknesses. The Tide passing game, he attests, will be the difference maker.

3) Which is more dangerous: Ryan Mallett and the Razorback offense or the Arkansas defense?

Picture Me Rollin is concerned about the Arkansas defense while 3rd Saturday in October worries over the Razorback offense. The problem, as 3SIB puts it, is uncertainty, "because we don’t know how the Tide defense will respond to a bona fide passing offense."

But the weirdness of going behind the pine curtain into the wilds of Fayetteville bode ill no matter what specific aspect of the game anyone wants to wring their hands over, sayeth DBH Dance Party. "Strange things tend to happen in the state of Arkansas."

4) How important is the Arkansas game for Alabama’s prospects both in the SEC West and the conference as a whole?

Both Picture Me Rollin and 3rd Saturday in October reached for hyperbole to stress the importance of this game for the Crimson Tide's chances in the SEC West. "Other games later may be touted as bigger, but lose this one, and that’s a two game gap behind a Razorbacks team that already has a conference win and avoids Florida and gets Vanderbilt this season," 3SIB explained. DBH Dance Party demurred, saying "It's probably more important for Arkansas than it is for us."

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 4

2010-09-20T18:54:00.003-05:00

What is the most important thing we learned about the Alabama team in the wake of the Duke game?
What is the biggest area of concern in respect to Alabama's performance in the upcoming game against Arkansas?
Which is more dangerous: Ryan Mallett and the Razorback offense or the Arkansas defense?
How important is the Arkansas game for Alabama's prospects both in the SEC West and the conference as a whole?

Picture Me Rollin 22/09
DBH Dance Party 21/09
3rd Saturday in Blogtober 20/09

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Duke Edition

2010-09-18T07:53:00.004-05:00

1. What is the most important thing we learned in the wake of the Penn State game?

In the wake of the Penn State game the panjandrums of the roundtable were divided on whether to be optimistic from the performance or not. Roll Bama Roll was among the half-full-glass contingent heaping much praise on the offensive line that "hasn't skipped a beat from last year and may very well be an even better unit." DBH Dance Party also sang the praises of the offense but offered a note of caution for OC Jim McElwain's playcalling.

The Capstone Report pondered the Bama defense and counted themselves in the half-empty-glass camp but with reservations: "If the unit continues to improve in the next few weeks, the defense will be fun to watch." Tower of Bammer was decidedly optimistic but much more interested in what was in the glass. "The offense really is the strength of this team, and with this young defence, it’ll get exciting at some point."

2. What is the biggest area of concern given the upcoming contest with Duke?

Despite having yet to give up a touchdown in regular-season play, the denizens of the Roundtable tapped the Tide defense as the area of greatest concern going into today's game and for further down the schedule. "If it takes redzone turnovers to stop Dukes early drives," Tower of Bammer opined. "We’ll be in for a long game against Arkansas."

Since Duke is known as a squad that likes to take to the air as much as possible the Alabama pass defense is going to be tested, Roll Bama Roll writes. DBH Dance Party specifically singled out the problems pressuring the passer and covering receivers. Capstone Report (and TOB) also singled out the bugbear of early-season gimmie games for concern -- needless injuries.

3. How much will the return of Marcel Dareus and (possibly) Mark Ingram affect the team's strategy?

Roll Bama Roll penned an epistle about the impact of Ingram's return but summed it up simply by saying, "we're not going to reinvent the wheel now that we have a new tool in the toolbox" although having the Heisman Trophy winner back would make things "a little easier." The inclusion of Dareus, according to DBH Dance Party, will mean the Tide "should (should) be able to pressure the quarterback better without the use of as many exotic blitzing."

Capstone Report was completely sanguine about the duo's return, expecting the game to be little more than a tune-up for both players. Or, as Tower of Bammer put it, “Beat they ass early enough to get the starters out of there and don’t get hurt."

4. What part of the gameday experience are you most looking forward to on Saturday?

DBH Dance Party notes this is likely to be the biggest on Duke's campus "since they hosted the Rose Bowl in 1941" which should add to the excitement of the contest but most of the roundtable looked forward to catching the first away game from the comfort of their own living rooms.

"I can get a little lunch and settle on the couch for the game without having to flip nervously between games while waiting on our beloved Tide to take the field," wrote Roll Bama Roll.

After battling the forces of evil and a bozo nightmare the past two games, Capstone Report realized his limitations and looked forward to a gameday at home while Tower of Bammer ponders undertaking a yard beautification project with their spare time.

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 3

2010-09-14T08:38:00.004-05:00

What is the most important thing we learned in the wake of the Penn State game?
What is the biggest area of concern given the upcoming contest with Duke?
How much will the return of Marcel Dareus and (possibly) Mark Ingram affect the team's strategy?
What part of the gameday experience are you most looking forward to on Saturday?

Roll Bama Roll 17/09
Capstone Report 16/09
Tower of Bammer 16/09
DBH Dance Party 15/09

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: Penn State Edition

2010-09-10T15:28:00.001-05:00

1) What is the most important thing we learned about the 2010 Alabama Crimson Tide in the wake of the San Jose State game?

The key lesson of the San Jose State game was what we didn’t learn. While many other highly touted teams produced less than impressive efforts against their cupcakes, the Alabama Crimson Tide took care of business.

“Well-coached football teams don't let lousy football teams think they have a chance. Not one second,” said DBH Dance Party. And Alabama didn’t.

The attitude of the team was the key, according to Roll Bama Roll. Complacency and arrogance have brought down many great squads and nothing about the opener suggested Alabama is in danger of resting on their laurels. Tower of Bammer held up Florida’s opener as the counter example.

Specifically the special teams made a good showing, noted Capstone Report and Third Saturday in Blogtober. And there is certainly a surfeit of talent on hand, said Picture Me Rollin.

2) What is the biggest area of concern given the upcoming contest with the Penn State?

With the powerhouse running and passing games the weak spot may be the tight end, and “we don't really know if our tight ends are capable of picking up the slack,” said DBH Dance Party after consulting with his grandpappy.

Capstone Report listed a litany of issues that could be points of concern against the Nittany Lions but highlighted the receivers against the Penn State defense. Bama Sports Report listed teams and the secondary.

Roll Bama Roll offered the laundry list of worries and admitted complete confusion while Tower of Bammer decided to whine about their insomnia and then name checked special teams again. Third Saturday in Blogtober concern was the young secondary and untested pass rush.

Bottom line, according to Picture Me Roll, “In my mind we might as well be starting the season this weekend.”

3) Which Alabama player is most likely to have a breakout performance against the Nittany Lions?

Picture Me Rollin expects a big day for Robert Lester on defense and Greg McElroy on offense. With Third Saturday in Blogtober tapping CJ Mosely as a non-starter likely to make a mark.

Roll Bama Roll tagged Chris Jordan or Nico Johnson as players to keep an eye on while Capstone Report said the entire offensive line is likely to be worth watching on Saturday.

The return of the dominant linebacker in the style of Derrick Thomas play is DBH Dance Party’s hope. “If he's wearing 55, so much the better.” Tower of Bammer predicted DJ Fluker’s will be fed a diet high in Vitaman Royster.

And Bama Sports Report was a little unspecific but no less certain for it. “I expect someone in the younger parts of the secondary to have a big game. Doesn't matter who - just someone.”

4) What part of the gameday experience are you most looking forward to on Saturday?

The letdown of a regular cupcake opener following two years facing top ten opponents for the inaugural game of the season has increased the excitement for Roll Bama Roll as well as raising the paranoia level.

Introducing a passel of Yankees to the joys of Southern tailgating and Alabama football traditions is the highlight for DBH Dance Party. And Picture Me Rollin plans to be on the Quad in full tailgate mode to make that dream a reality.

Tower of Bammer is skeptical of Penn State crowd estimates. “I’ve heard estimates up to a million trillion, but I doubt they’ll get half that.”

On the homefront, Third Saturday in Blogtober is eying a Yeungling and a place on the couch.
Bama Sports Report is curious as to the crowd noise in Bryant-Denny Stadium with the new South End Zone addition. Capstone Report, regrettably, offered a cautionary tale for unsavory fans at BDS.

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 2

2010-09-05T10:05:00.007-05:00

What is the most important thing we learned about the 2010 Alabama Crimson Tide in the wake of the San Jose State game?
What is the biggest area of concern given the upcoming contest with the Penn State?
Which Alabama player is most likely to have a breakout performance against the Nittany Lions?
What part of the gameday experience are you most looking forward to on Saturday?

Bama Sports Report 10/09
Capstone Report 08/09
Roll Bama Roll 08/09
Tower of Bammer 07/09
DBH Dance Party 07/09
Third Saturday in October 07/09
Picture Me Rollin 07/09

The Crimson & White Roundtable Roundup: 2010 Season Opener Edition

2010-09-03T09:13:00.014-05:00

1) What are the expectations for the coming season?

While the mainstream media seems convinced that the Alabama fanbase has nothing but visions of National Championships and Heisman Trophies in their heads for 2010, the C&W Roundtable begs to differ. The expectations for the 2010 are certainly optimistic and positive but also painfully realistic.

Every participant in the roundtable this week projected the Crimson Tide to drop a least one game this season. A “a slight crash back to earth” at the hands of “some Gator-Lion-Tiger-Chickeny-type Beast while we break in America’s Next Top Defense,” as Tower of Bammer put it.

The most Saban-esque take was from Roll Bama Roll whose expectations are for a team that will “go out each and every game and work to dominate whoever they are lined up against.

That dovetails with 3rd Saturday in Blogtober’s projection that the Crimson Tide is likely to drop one somewhere along the line despite being favored the whole way. That outcome would pretty much determine how the rest of the expectations play out. Contending for the division and thereby the SEC Championship is the baseline expectation every year, everything else follows from that.

DBH Dance Party denounced the perception of Alabama fans harboring "unrealistic" expectations as a holdover from the pre-Saban period of turmoil. “Alabama fans — most of us anyway — aren't stupid enough to believe our guys can win the national title every year,” he points out.

But Picture Me Rollin noted that this season will require a serious shift of perception on the part of the fans that could be difficult. Over the past three season, the Crimson Tide was focusing on improvement and now, after reaching the mountaintop, that has changed. Getting better doesn’t cut it and while Coach Saban may have that covered for the team, the fans might take awhile to adjust to the new mindset.

PMR has a suggestion for that; “I’m going to focus on enjoying the season for what it is, not what I want it to be.”

2) What Crimson Tide players to you most expect to stand out this season?

In terms of Alabama's established stars, the roundtable chose the usual suspects for recognition in 2010. DBH Dance Party notes he is downright giddy at the prospect of the stacked backfield featuring Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson while Tower of Bammer gives some serious love to the Heisman Trophy winner.

“The guy has the best timing and patience I’ve ever seen,” he writes. “I bet he doesn’t even know what color shows up after yellow on traffic lights.”

3rd Saturday in Blogtober points out that if Greg McElroy can merely avoid a mid-season slump like he did last year then we should expect some serious fireworks from the receiving corps. Which fits with Roll Bama Roll’s tapping tight end Brad Smelly as a key offensive player to watch given the pre-season talk about his improvement and the importance of the position to the passing game.

“If we can get him on a safety or linebacker out there he could give McElroy a big target over the middle,” he notes.

On the defensive side of the ball, Picture Me Rolling projects some unnamed defensive back “will be a household name by the end of the year.” Roll Bama Roll also sings the praises of linebacker Courtney Upshaw.

3) What do you think will be biggest difference between this team and the 2009 squad?

Picture Me Rollin points out that the “party line” in response to this question is “a great offense and an improving defense for this season which was the opposite of last year.” And that’s pretty much the story the roundtable respondents stuck to.

On offense, Tower of Bammer expect to see Greg McElroy take a few more chances, “becoming more Texas Gunslinger and less Texas Groundskeeper.” And Roll Bama Roll concurs that the offense is likely to be more explosive, with a cavat: “I don't think we'll be as wide open as some folks think. I'm thinking more along the line of what we saw against Florida [in the SECCG], with a few more shots down the field here and there.”

The defense will be a completely different beast, according to 3rd Saturday in Blogtober (and seconded by RBR). The strength of the front seven will increase the sack rate but the lack of experience in the secondary will mean a lower turnover margin.

“I also see the Tide giving up more big plays than they did last season, not just because of the lack of experience, but because of the lack of chemistry from having not played together much.”

DBH Dance Party noted the importance of luck as a factor of the 2009 team’s success and suggests it’s folly to expect the breaks to go the Tide’s way indefinitely. “These things will undoubtedly even out this fall. They just have to. So just get ready for it.”

The Crimson & White Roundtable: 2010 Season, Week 1

2010-08-29T14:44:00.008-05:00

What are your expectations for the coming season?
What players to you most expect to stand out?
What do you think will be biggest difference between this team and the 2009 squad?

Picture Me Rollin 9/2
Roll Bama Roll 8/31
Tower of Bammer 8/30
Bama Sports Report 8/30
3rd Saturday in Blogtober 8/29
DBH Dance Party 8/28

The Crimson & White Roundtable - July 26, 2010

2010-07-26T07:07:00.009-05:00

Through a random sequence of events, you are now in charge of college football. By yourself, with carte blanche to make decisions that will be put into action (and the college presidents will sign up for whatever you're selling). So what changes will you make? Will you pay players? Institute a playoff? Nuke the University of Tennessee?

Third Saturday in Blogtober 31/07
Tower of Bammer 29/07
Roll Bama Roll 28/07

A Crimson & White Roundtable Announcement

2010-06-30T09:09:00.002-05:00

As has occurred several times in the past, the participation in the C&W Roundtable has waned after a couple of months of participation.

Many of the websites that contribute to the feature are handling a host of mid-summer activities during our beloved sport's off-season. As a result, the roundtable is going into another indefinite hiatus. There will be an attempt to revive it as fall practice picks up and any information about that will be posted here.

Thanks for reading and Roll Tide!

Crimson & White Roundtable - June 18, 2010

2010-06-18T10:00:00.003-05:00

Expansion has happened. The Pac-10 and Big Ten have grown by two and one teams respectively, the Big XII has shrunk by two and the Mountain West has added one (the WAC lost one, but really who cares?). Who did the best and worse in the whole deal, conference, team or both?
To piggyback off the last question, do you foresee a shift in the balance of power in the conferences based on these moves?
On to our team; I believe that it is safe to say that Alabama was a run first, clock-control type offense last season. This was, I think, first and foremost because we could count on the defense to shut down the opposing team – the only exception to this was the game plan against Florida, who the coaching staff seemed to respect offensively more. By all accounts the defense will not be as good this year and the offense will be counted on to score more points. Do you believe that the offensive philosophy will reflect this more – basically will the offensive game plan we saw against Florida be the norm for this season?

Third Saturday in Blogtober 21/06
Picture Me Rollin (host) 18/06

Crimson & White Roundtable - June 8, 2010

2010-06-09T07:20:00.003-05:00

If you could pick one ex-Tide player up from the past (via Bill and Ted’s phone booth), to come in and shore up one of the 2010 team’s question marks, who would it be?
About the “Roll Tide” cheer after first downs: “Yay, more downs!”, or “Hmmm, this feels forced…”
It’s been a while since we’ve seen that fiery Scott Cochran tell us to get our flu vaccine, what should his next commercial be?
When Urban Meyer finally decides to pursue his musical career and start the Acid Reflux Heart Attack Band, will Tim Tebow be able to join in playing mad drums, or will his pro career still be going strong?
Complete this sentence: ________ is going to ________ a lot of ________ this Fall.

Roll Bama Roll 11/06
Tower of Bammer (host) 08/06

Crimson & White Roundtable - May 31, 2010

2010-05-31T12:05:00.006-05:00

Have y'all developed an unexpected affection for any of the non-revenue sports during the offseason, and if so which ones?
Back to football, which team on the upcoming schedule are you most looking forward to facing and why?
It's hard to imagine Jim McElwain not making the leap to a head coaching position sometime soon. When that sad day comes, who would be your dream OC hire to take his place?
In that same vein, which OC that Alabama will face this year would you send an unmarked van filled with goons to "disappear" and then replace with a cosmetically-surgified-to-look-just-like-them Jeff Bowden?
Finally, what is the one thing you are most looking forward to when football season finally gets here?

Roll Bama Roll 04/06
Picture Me Rollin 04/06
Tower of Bammer 04/06
Roll Bama Roll (host) 31/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - May 27, 2010

2010-05-27T09:05:00.006-05:00

After hearing as much as I have about BJ Scott, Dre Kirkpatrick, Rod Woodson, etc, is it possible that the secondary this year may actually be better than last year's squad?
How will all of the awards and honors, especially from his hometown, affect Mark Ingram's performance this season?
Could you see Greg McElroy as a legitimate early round selection in the NFL draft next year? Why or why not?
James Willis was a master recruiter and one hell of a linebackers coach. We haven't talked much about what the loss of him means to our staff. Tell us what you think the effect will be with him gone to Texas Tech.
Have you ever seen a state whose political views can be switched by football rumors? The Tim James fiasco is absolutely incredible to me how much football can mean to a state.

Picture Me Rollin 28/05
Tower of Bammer 28/05
Roll Bama Roll 28/05
Memphis Tider (host) 27/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - May 18, 2010

2010-05-18T05:39:00.003-05:00

What do you think of SEC Commissioner Mike Slive?
What do you think of the state of the Southeastern Conference?
Was Lane Kiffin the best thing ever for SEC football fans? Could he have left Tennessee in greater disarray? How does that make you feel?
Thinking about SEC rivals, Alabama has won two straight over Auburn. Alabama has won three straight over Tennessee. Alabama has won two straight over LSU. Who snaps the Crimson Tide’s winning streak first? Which streak continues the longest?
What do you think of the Justin Knox situation now that the family has threatened legal action against the University?

Tower of Bammer 21/05
Third Saturday in Blogtober 20/05
Capstone Report (responses) 18/05
Capstone Report (host) 18/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - May 11, 2010

2010-05-11T16:43:00.005-05:00

Whenever a media outlet evaluates the Tide heading into the fall, the first three questions are always 'how will the Tide replace Terrence Cody?', 'will the secondary be a weakness?', and 'what sort of liability will special teams be?' After these three obvious questions, is there another area not being discussed that could be problematic this fall?
Every season since Coach Saban showed up on campus, at least two true freshman have distinguished themselves either as starters or as standout contributors on offense or defense. In 2007, it was Rolando McClain and Kareem Jackson, followed by Julio Jones and Donta Hightower in 2008, and last year it was Trent Richardson and (arguably) Nico Johnson. Who do you see being an immediate asset for the class of 2010?
We're all hopeful that Alabama goes undefeated for the third consecutive regular season, but 'unlikely' doesn't begin to describe the difficulty of that. If Alabama is going to lose at least one game, the question is not which is most likely, but which loss could you stomach the easiest?
Lots of people are pointing to the Georgia State game as the functional equivalent of a bye week. Agree or disagree?
We've been talking about hypothetical expansion for weeks now and the consensus is that the SEC will expand if it feels so compelled by the moves of other conferences. For a few days a specious rumor has been circulating on MSM sources that the Big Ten has extended invitations to Nebraska, Missouri, Notre Dame, and Rutgers (one version includes Syracuse). If this group of invites were true, would this be enough to cause the SEC to attempt expansion? Why or why not?

Third Saturday in Blogtober 14/05
Roll Bama Roll 14/05
Picture Me Rollin 14/05
Capstone Report 13/05
Tower of Bammer 12/05
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 10/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - May 3, 2010

2010-05-03T09:53:00.009-05:00

There’s been a lot of talk about schedules and future opponents recently with Georgia Tech dropping off for 2012 and 1013. This question gets thrown around a lot, but it’s pertinent once again. Pretend you’re Mal Moore. Who do you target for a future home-and-home series or who would you seek for a one-shot, neutral site game?
The recently completed season has gotten us all filled with fresh, good memories. A new crop of players have completed their eligibility and endeared themselves to Crimson Tide faithful forever as have some guys that are still on the roster. Have any of the recent players unseated their predecessors for the top spots on your own personal “all-time greatest” players list? If so, who are they?
Conference expansion is all the rage across the country, which in my opinion is a response to the recent and foreseeable dominance in the SEC. Now expansion of our conference is being discussed as a possibility. Are you for or against expansion of the SEC and why? Whether you are pro-expansion or not, list the teams you like to see added (and/or removed) to the league roster if expansion takes place.
Pre-season indications (which are admittedly totally my own prognostications) are that our two biggest rivals, Tennessee and Auburn, are going to suck and be somewhat improved respectively. Agree or disagree?

Picture Me Rollin (roundup) 09/05
Picture Me Rollin 09/05
Roll Bama Roll 07/05
Tower of Bammer 05/05
Third Saturday in Blogtober 04/05
Capstone Report 03/05
Picture Me Rollin (host) 03/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - April 27, 2010

2010-04-27T11:13:00.009-05:00

While the actual players and coaches deserve some of the credit for last season's success, it was our collective superstitions and dark rituals that brought home the championship. What was your superstitious contribution?
Put on your Finebaum hat, dip your arrows in vile poison, and tell us which SEC coach is gonna be the first to get canned/and or bolt for greener pastures... like golf courses.
We would love for this to go on forever, but let's face it, we have to lose a game at some point, right? What team on next years schedule (pronounced shed-jewel) should cause the most concern?
Joe Paterno has already screeched "You can't count on freshmen. Do you want to go down to Tuscaloosa with freshmen!?" but Penn State fans are buzzing about how true frosh Paul Jones looked in their spring game. Is JoePa playing it smart, clinging to an outdated case of freshmanastartaphobia, or just planning on starting a sacrificial lamb QB so Marcel Dareus doesn't eat his good ones?
Everyone I know has a crazy story about dealing with an out of control swamp-thing rival from Red Stick, whats the craziest thing you've ever seen an LSU fan do? (Just to make things interesting, lets disqualify Shaquille O'Neal's performance as a genie in Shazam)

Capstone Report 30/04
Third Saturday in Blogtober 30/04
Picture Me Rollin 30/04
Roll Bama Roll 28/04
Tower of Bammer (host) 27/04

Crimson & White Roundtable - April 19, 2010

2010-04-19T19:36:00.009-05:00

How did you watch the game, and why?
Who stood out most on offense, be it for good or bad reasons?
Same question for the defense.
Did A-Day make you feel better or worse about our chances for a repeat in 2010?
With the long dark of the offseason finally upon us, what's your favorite coping mechanism?

Third Saturday in Blogtober 22/04
Picture Me Rollin 21/04
Roll Bama Roll 21/04
Tower of Bammer 20/04
Capstone Report 20/04
Memphis Tider 20/04
Roll Bama Roll (host) 19/04

Crimson & White Roundtable - April 14, 2010

2010-04-14T09:24:00.011-05:00

With Cody being gone to the NFL this season, will this change not only the way the Tide plays defense, but the way that opponents attack? Will this play into our favor or no?
Although it's simply a glorified scrimmage, what are you looking for from Saturday's A-Day game?
How big is the loss of Mike Johnson on the offensive line? Was he the reason the transition from 2008 to 2009 was so smooth?
Is there another strength & conditioning coach in the country that is as important to a plan as Coach Cochran? What is it about him that you love so much (because we know that everyone here loves him. haha)?
NBA Playoff time -- who wins it, who pulls off the biggest upset, and why?

Memphis Tider 20/04
Third Saturday in Blogtober 16/04
Tower of Bammer 16/04
Roll Bama Roll 16/04
Picture Me Rollin 15/04
Capstone Report 15/04
Memphis Tider (host) 14/04

Crimson & White Roundtable - April 6, 2010

2010-04-06T07:00:00.010-05:00

Is Alabama on the verge of a quarterback controversy? The backup quarterback is always a fan favorite, but A.J. McCarron posted good stats from the first spring scrimmage. What are the chances he some significant playing time in 2010? Would that be good or bad?
Were there any other bits of good or bad news from the scrimmage that fans should consider?
Homecoming is October 16 against Ole Miss. Thoughts? Is it ever good to play an SEC squad for homecoming?
What does the Menzie injury do to Alabama’s projected depth in the secondary?
Happy that Duke won the tournament? Happy the basketball season is finally over?

Capstone Report (roundup) 04/12
Picture Me Rollin 04/09
Third Saturday in Blogtober 04/09
Memphis Tider 04/08
Roll Bama Roll 04/08
Tower of Bammer 04/06
Capstone Report (host) 04/05

Crimson & White Roundtable - March 24, 2010

2010-03-24T11:43:00.010-05:00

It's way early, but who do you think will replace Tim Tebow as Gary Danielson's man crush?
Each season under McElwain (and Saban), the offense has added several wrinkles that largely transformed the offense. Last year, it was the addition of the Wild Elephant. What can we expect this fall?
Of all the young players vying for playing time in the secondary, who do you think will take over for the departed Javier Arenas at the Star position?
What is the #1 question about the team that you'd like to see answered this spring?
Who heals faster: Dont'a Hightower or Wolverine?

Tower of Bammer 03/26

Third Saturday in Blogtober 03/26

Capstone Report 03/26

Roll Bama Roll 03/25

Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 03/24

Crimson & White Roundtable - March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T05:00:00.009-06:00

Spring practice starts today and there will be a number of position battles on both sides of the ball. Which one are you paying the most attention to?
There have already been a couple of position change rumors (Kendall Kelly to safety, Michael Bowman to TE) and, knowing Saban's penchant for playing mad scientist with the roster during the early part of spring camp, there are likely going to be a few more over the next few weeks. Who do you think would be a candidate for a position change, why, and where are they moving?
Each year someone has a come from nowhere breakout performance in the spring, a la Robby Green's surprise nabbing of the FS spot last spring. Who is poised to be a breakout star this year?
There was a lot of blue chip talent riding the pine last season. Which heralded recruit that has yet to see any meaningful playing time is, in your opinion, both poised to show their stuff and the one you are most excited about finally seeing on the field?
If Mark Ingram and Godzilla fought, who would win?

Tower of Bammer 03/17
DBH Dance Party 03/15

Third Saturday in Blogtober 03/12

Roll Bama Roll (host) 03/14

Crimson & White Roundtable - February 28, 2010

2010-02-28T12:00:00.003-06:00

Can't we just keep re-living 2009 forever?
Who's the hardest player from 2009 to replace?
Which player - or facet of the game - should we expect to make the biggest jump in 2010?
Is there an aspect that concerns you going into 2010?
What is a reasonable expectation for 2010?

DBH Dance Party (roundup) 03/04

Third Saturday in Blogtober 03/03
Roll Bama Roll 03/02
Tower of Bammer 03/02
Capstone Report 03/01
DBH Dance Party (host) 02/28

C&W Roundtable - November 4, 2008

2008-11-04T12:00:00.002-06:00

What is your opinion of Alabama's current position in the polls?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on offense. Also name one on defense.
As we found out this week, with November comes the coaching carousel. what are your thoughts on Phat Phil and his legacy? which realistic candidate, if any, scares the crap out of you?
With all the hype of Fowler, Corso, and Herbie in town, the #1 ranking, the unbridled (and unnecessary) hatred for Saban (and most anything Crimson Tide for that matter) from the Tigah faithful, just how ripe for for the upset is Bama this weekend? How do you expect the squad to react?

Uncle Rico's Time Machine (roundup) 11/10
Alabama Gameday 11/05
Roll Bama Roll 11/05
Picture Me Rollin 11/05
Uncle Rico's Time Machine (host) 11/04

C&W Roundtable - October 29, 2008

2008-10-29T12:00:00.002-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama's current position in the polls?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your players of the game on offense and on defense.
Arkansas State got a BCS scalp at Texas A&M to open their season, while we're still living down the humiliation of a loss to their fellow Sun Belt member La.-Monroe. We've worried about a letdown all season long and, considering a similarly dominating win over UT preceded the November death spiral last year, are we in danger here?
Looking around the SEC, which team is the most undervalued in the league? Who is the most overvalued?

Alabama Gameday 10/30
Third Saturday in Blogtober 10/29
Picture Me Rollin 10/29
Bama Sports Report 10/29
Roll Bama Roll (host) 10/29

C&W Roundtable - October 20, 2008

2008-10-20T12:00:00.002-05:00

Both teams at some point or another have been described as an Evil Empire. If your team is the Death Star, what is its planet-destroying weapon?
What is its two meter wide exhaust port?
Everyone is looking forward to Eric Berry vs. Julio Jones. What is the next matchup you'll be keying on in this game?
The Tide and Vols will scrap it out under the lights at Neyland. Do you like this arrangement and does the later kickoff time provide an advantage to either team?
Since the Tide had a bye week and the Vols didn't bother to play that weekend either (zing!) we're going to say this is the Third Saturday in October just to justify the name of one of the greatest rivalries in college football. In three thousand words or less, turn over the kettles of white-hot liquid hate upon thine enemy.

Picture Me Rollin 10/23
Roll Bama Roll 10/22
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 10/22
DBH Dance Party 10/21
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 10/20

C&W Roundtable - October 14, 2008

2008-10-14T12:00:00.005-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama’s current position in the polls? Are we Overrated? Underrated? Just right?
Kentucky’s Defensive Line gave Alabama an afternoon of problems. Considering that Ole Miss is said to have a better D-Line, is there a cause for concern, or our we just over-reacting to a tired team’s performance?
What part of Alabama’s team concerns you against Ole Miss? Likewise, what aspect of the game should Alabama control?

Tide Druid (roundup) 10/19
Picture Me Rollin 10/16
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 10/15
Roll Bama Roll 10/15
Third Saturday in Blogtober 10/14
Tide Druid (host) 10/14

C&W Roundtable - October 6, 2008

2008-10-06T12:00:00.001-05:00

What is your feeling on Alabama's current position in the polls?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your players of the game on offense and defense.
We're six games into the Process; year two, and the team has made vast improvements since last season. Who, in your opinion, has made the biggest jump since last year?
Profess your feelings for Jim McElwain. Prose, poetry, in song, or in any other way you see fit.

Alabama Gameday 10/09
Roll Bama Roll 10/09
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 10/08
Picture Me Rollin 10/08
DBH Dance Party 10/07
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 10/06

C&W Roundtable - September 30, 2008

2008-09-30T12:00:00.003-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama's current position in the polls? Are we overrated? Underrated? Just right?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on Offense. Also name one on Defense.
The Wildcats are a very quiet 4-0 with lackluster wins over Louisville, Norfolk State, MTSU, and Western Kentucky. Obviously every game in the SEC is going to be a tough one and the Tide could be in danger of a letdown after such a huge win, so are you at all worried about UK? Why or why not?
John Parker Wilson is a new man this season, looking like the kind of savvy game manager that can make just enough throws to keep defenses guessing we need in this offense. What's your take on his sudden emergence, and are you comfortable with him under center in clutch situations?

Picture Me Rollin 10/03
Tide Druid 10/01
Alabama Gameday 10/01
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 09/30
DBH Dance Party 09/30
Third Saturday in Blogtober 09/30
Roll Bama Roll (host) 09/30

C&W Roundtable - September 23, 2008

2008-09-23T12:00:00.003-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama’s current position in the polls? Are we overrated? Underrated? Just right?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on Offense. Also name one on Defense.
Who on each side of the ball has been the biggest surprise to you so far?
Alabama has dominated the first quarter, outscoring opponents 64-0 in the first quarter. How do you think this team will handle its first taste of adversity this season?
Setting aside Georgia, now that the season is well underway, how do you feel Alabama stacks up against what you've seen of their big opponents?

Tide Druid 09/25
Roll Bama Roll 09/24
Bama Sports Report 09/24
Picture Me Rollin 09/23
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 09/23
Alabama Gameday (host) 09/22

C&W Roundtable - September 15, 2008

2008-09-15T12:00:00.004-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama’s current position in the polls? Are we overrated? Underrated? Just right?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on Offense. Also name one on Defense.
Who on each side of the ball has been the biggest surprise to you so far?
On offense, it has to be Mark Ingram. I knew the kid was going to be a bruiser and thought we'd make use of him as a short yardage/goal line back, but I had no idea he was that complete of a back already.
The last three weeks were fun, but now it’s time for conference play. What area of play concerns you now that we’re getting into the more physical stretch of the schedule?

Picture Me Rollin 09/17
Alabama Gameday 09/17
Roll Bama Roll 09/16
DBH Dance Party 09/15
Bama Sports Report 10/15
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 09/15

C&W Roundtable - September 8, 2008

2008-09-08T12:00:00.004-05:00

What are your feelings on Alabama’s current position in the polls? Are we overrated? Underrated? Just right?
What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most? What aspect of the game was Alabama dominated in that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on Offense. Also name one on Defense.
John Parker Wilson has been called a number of things – most of them not so nice. What do you see in your crystal ball for #14 for the balance of the season?
Considering that we rushed for 6.5 yards per carry against Tulane, and only averaged 1.6 yards on pass plays, why do you suppose that we passed 27 times and only ran 22 times?

Bama Sports Report (roundup) 09/12
Third Saturday in Blogtober 09/11
Tide Druid 09/10
DBH Dance Party 09/10
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 09/10
Alabama Gameday 09/09
Picture Me Rollin 09/09
Bama Sports Report (host) 09/08

C&W Roundtable - September 3, 2008

2008-09-03T12:00:00.003-05:00

Due to that colossal victory over a Top 10 team in Clemson, Alabama has shot up in the polls (13th in AP and 17th in Coaches). What are your feelings on Alabama’s current position in the polls? (Too High? Too Low? Just Right?) Expound on this if you can.
We’re all a little shocked at how much Alabama dominated that game on Saturday. What aspect of the game did Alabama control that shocked you the most?
Name your player of the game on Offense. Also name one on Defense.

Tide Druid (roundup) 09/05
Tide Chick 09/05
Roll Bama Roll 09/04
Picture Me Rollin 09/04
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 09/03
Tide Druid (host) 09/03

C&W Roundtable - August 18, 2007

2008-08-18T12:00:00.002-05:00

Will JP use Julio as a crutch the same way he did with DJ Hall for the past two seasons?
Would a loss in the opener be more beneficial for the freshmen than a big national win?
What will be the tailgate food of choice for opening weekend?

Bama Sports Report 08/21
Memphis Tider (host) 08/18

C&W Roundtable - July 28, 2008

2008-07-28T12:00:00.004-05:00

Complete this sentence: Alabama’s biggest improvement from the 2007 season will be __________.
Who will be the unsung hero of the 2008 Crimson Tide? This is a player that hasn’t received any pre-season attention, nor will he receive any post-season attention from the media. Yet without his presence, the Tide would be lost.
This is a rather vague question considering we haven’t even started fall practice, but what bowl game can we expect for this Alabama team?
This next one has to do with the recent hub-bub over the sabbatical Kenny Stabler is taking from the radio broadcast. I would like you to pick your ultimate Alabama football radio broadcast team. Pick an announcer, color analyst, a sideline reporter or two, and anything else you’d like to add.

Tide Druid (roundup) 08/01
Memphis Tider 07/31
Roll Bama Roll 07/30
DBH Dance Party 07/30
Bama Sports Report 07/29
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 07/29
Tide Druid (host) 07/28

C&W Roundtable - July 21, 2008

2008-07-21T12:00:00.002-05:00

Given your preference, do you choose the watch the game on television or in-person and why?
As far as going to the game, do you prefer very comfortable or really sharp, in your attire?
What your favorite gameday recipe or alternately, it’s just not tailgating without…
What is your drop-dead have to be in your seat time?
Is there any paraphernalia you have to take in the game with you?

Picture Me Rollin (roundup) 07/29
Tide Druid 07/25
Bama Sports Report 07/25
Roll Bama Roll 07/25
Alabama Gameday 07/24
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 07/22
Picture Me Rollin (host) 07/21

C&W Roundtable - July 14, 2008

2008-07-14T12:00:00.004-05:00

What record would you consider "sufficient progress" in the coming season?
Does college football need a playoff? Why?
If you’re an Alabama fan and a native Alabamian, then more than likely you became a fan sometime between conception and the cutting of the cord, but what moment do you remember best as being "the moment" that you became an active participant in your fandom?
What rule change would you most like see implemented?

Picture Me Rollin 07/18
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 07/17
Bama Sports Report 07/17
Memphis Tider 07/17
Roll Bama Roll 07/16
Alabama Gameday 07/15
DBH Dance Party 07/15
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host) 07/14

C&W Roundtable - July 7, 2008

2008-07-07T12:00:00.003-05:00

And the Valley Shook recently posted their thoughts on "Saban the Disciplinarian." As LSU partisans, they have a lot more experience with Coach Saban than we do, and I'm interested in your thoughts on why we feel like Saban is the man to restore discipline in Tuscaloosa.
And on that note, what's your gut instinct on any further arrests before the start of the season?
On a forward looking note, name the game you are most excited about this coming season and why?
What's the game you are dreading the most?
Finally, give me the dream play you want to see posted in YouTube form on every football blog this season involving the Crimson Tide.

Uncle Rico's Time Machine 07/09
DBH Dance Party 07/08
Picture Me Rollin 07/07
Roll Bama Roll (host) 07/07

C&W Roundtable - June 30, 2008

2008-06-30T12:00:00.002-05:00

Which non-conference home-and-home series would you most like to see?
Which of the following is the most likely win for Alabama this year: LSU, Tennessee or Auburn?
Who will be the #2 quarterback coming out of Fall practice?
If you could swap any two SEC schools for any other schools in the Southeast, which would they be?

Alabama Gameday (roundup) 07/10
Picture Me Rollin 07/04
Roll Bama Roll 07/03
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 07/02
Alabama Gameday (host) 06/30

C&W Roundtable - June 23, 2008

2008-06-23T12:00:00.002-05:00

What team will be the biggest surprise in the sec in ’08? ...the biggest disappointment?
We appear to know who our QB is going to be for the season barring something crazy, but not all offensive skill positions are so certain. As the season progresses, who do you see stepping up to be this squad's most productive running back? ...wide reciever?
Obviously "the Saban" is lord and savior, and created the heavens and the earth, but if you were forced to trade Saban for another active coach, who would it be and why?
Some people view Bama fans as insane. While "insane" is an awfully strong word, many Bama fans have a disturbing obsession with their team. What is the most significant/unique/valuable/weird piece of Bama paraphernalia you have and why?

Uncle Rico's Time Machine (roundup) 06/27
Picture Me Rollin 06/27
Alabama Gameday 06/24
Memphis Tider 06/24
Uncle Rico's Time Machine (host) 06/23

C&W Roundtable - June 16, 2008

2008-06-16T12:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Roy Kramer legacy scheduling, Bama is in it’s "road year" when most of the great games will be on the road and season tickets basically are buy one (Iron Bowl) get seven free. You get to swap one home game for one road game. What’s your call?
After Clemson, our Non-Con schedule is pretty weak. You are able to trade any one them for any BCS team in the country. Who and why?
You can bring back one player from Alabama history to play in his college condition. Who do you want?
Frankly, the idea of non-traditional food at a stadium is borderline sacrilegious. Still, the change is coming whether you like it or not, so it might as well benefit you. Gone will be the stale soft pretzels and nacho cheese. You get to pick one thing to replace it.
Since we would never wish injury upon another player, let’s say the President calls and says you can send one player from an opponent’s team to Guantanamo Bay before the game. Who do you pick and why?

Third Saturday in Blogtober (roundup) 06/21
DBH Dance Party 06/19
Picture Me Rollin 06/18
Roll Bama Roll 06/18
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 06/18
Third Saturday in Blogtober (host)

C&W Roundtable - June 9, 2008

2008-06-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

Other than the contest against Little Brother, what do you think is a “must-win” for Alabama this season?
Every year there seems to be a player that no one is really talking about pre-season that garners accolades by the end of the year. Who will that be for Alabama this year?
In your opinion, how many true freshmen will start against Clemson? How many will start against Little Brother?
Pick one player on offense and one on defense and give a match up with an opponent that you are really looking forward to watching this season.
What, if any, SEC school’s head coach will be out after this season?

Picture Me Rollin (roundup) 06/13
DBH Dance Party 06/12
Tide Druid 06/12
Alabama Gameday 06/11
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 06/11
Roll Bama Roll 06/10
Picture Me Rollin (host) 06/09

C&W Roundtable - June 2, 2008

2008-06-02T12:00:00.003-05:00

We have a poll up at RBR about what was the biggest SEC upset from last season. What is your pick and why?
Looking ahead to this season's schedule, what games do you see as being the deciding factors in who will win the SEC?
Phil Steele and Athlon have Florida ranked #1 in the country with UGA coming in at #9 and #5, respectively, while Lindy's likes the Dawgs at #1 and Florida at #6. Obviously both teams can't represent the East in Atlanta, so which team do you think will wind up playing for the title and a berth in the Sugar Bowl (or National Championship Game), or do you think it's possible neither team will be there at the end of the season?
It's a little early for a "traitor's draft" since we don't know who the starters are going to be until the fall, but since football is a year long affair let's go ahead and have one. If you could trade two Alabama spring starters, one offensive and one defensive, for their counterpart on any other SEC team, who would you trade and why?
Finally, and just for fun, give me one non-Alabama game you'd love to attend this season (there's a list of the "Top 40" non-con games of the season here if you need a little help).

Roll Bama Roll (roundup) 06/07
Picture Me Rollin 06/05
DBH Dance Party 06/04
Alabama Gameday 06/04
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 06/04
Memphis Tider 06/03
Tide Druid 06/03
Roll Bama Roll (host) 06/02

C&W Roundtable - May 27, 2008

2008-05-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

Will the new offense and Offensive Coordinator be a positive change for John Parker Wilson? If so, how much? If not, what concerns you?
We’ve all felt the excitement of landing this studly freshmen class on signing day, but what expectations should we have once they all land in Tuscaloosa?
What were your initial thoughts of the somewhat split job of Defensive Coordinator? Have they changed since then, or are they still the same?
In your eyes, who needs to step up the most in a position of depth concern?
We’ve all heard the talk of this possibly being Mal Moore’s last season as Athletic Director. What will his legacy be when it is all said and done?
Other than Georgia, what non-Alabama SEC team impresses you the most? (because everyone would normally answer UGA)

Tide Druid (roundup) 05/30
Uncle Rico's Time Machine 05/29
Picture Me Rollin 05/29
Alabama Gameday 05/28
Roll Bama Roll 05/28
Capstone Report 05/27
Third Saturday in Blogtober 05/27
Tide Druid (host) 05/27

C&W Roundtable - November 26, 2007

2007-11-26T12:00:00.001-06:00

What surprised you the most about this football team? Good or bad.
Who must shape up or ship out by next season?
Do you expect any assistant coaching changes?
What bowl game should Alabama go to, if one at all?
It seems that underclassmen are playing more and more these days.
How much playing time should we expect from Saban’s first two
recruiting classes?
What did Saban do well this season? Where was he lacking?
Who is someone that we didn’t expect much from this season who
really showed up big for the Tide?
What young player are you glad is staying and think will really
make big contributions over the next few seasons?
Which senior are you saddest to lose, for whatever reason?
Give your absurdly premature prediction of the Tide’s regular
season record for next year.

Roll Bama Roll 11/27
Third Saturday in Blogtober
Tide Druid (host) 11/26

C&W Roundtable - September 7, 2007

2007-09-07T12:00:00.002-05:00

The game against Vanderbilt has been selected by several national media types as a potential upset win for the Commodores. What are some things the Tide needs to improve on this week to avoid the upset, and if Vanderbilt wins would you consider it an upset given that so many people have pointed toward this game as a possible Tide loss?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Eight in the Box (host)

C&W Roundtable - August 31, 2007

2007-08-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

For the entire offseason, the national media has talked about Alabama being a 6 or 7 win football team. This past Saturday, on the ESPN College Gameday preseason show, both Kirk Herbstreit and Lou Holtz picked Alabama to win 9 (and Holtz said 10) games this season. Would you prefer to stay under the radar and let everyone continue to think we'll only win 7, or do you appreciate the national recognition we're already beginning to receive before the season kicks off? ...and, of course, why?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Memphis Tider (host)

C&W Roundtable - August 24, 2007

2007-08-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

Other than Quarterback, what position(s) does Alabama need to stay healthy this year in order to compete in 2007? What position would still thrive if we had to suffer an injury?
Name one Alabama player you think is a sleeper right now, waiting for his come out year.

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid (host)

C&W Roundtable - August 17, 2007

2007-08-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

Coach Saban has stated that he likes to see position battles at every position, and there are several that should be decided over the next few weeks, namely running back, nose tackle, cornerback, and right tackle. Give us your projected starters at those positions, and list any other positions that might be open for competition from the freshmen.

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Roll Bama Roll (host)

C&W Roundtable - August 10, 2007

2007-08-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Where will Alabama be ranked at the end of this recruiting class?
What players does Bama need to sign to have a top 5 class?
Which conference is the second best in the nation and why?

Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Bama Nation (host)

C&W Roundtable - August 3, 2007

2007-08-03T12:00:00.002-05:00

Discuss the two BAMA rivalries that stand out the most to you.
Discuss BAMA's special teams and what we should expect to see from them in the future.

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Tide Druid
Roll Crimson Tide (host)

C&W Roundtable - July 27, 2007

2007-07-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

What are two things you wish outsiders (non-Alabama fans) knew about the Crimson Tide and its fans?

Bama Nation
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Capstone Report (host)

C&W Roundtable - July 20, 2007

2007-07-20T12:00:00.003-05:00

Where was the weirdest place you ever saw Alabama merchandise. It can be on sale, randomly laying around or being actively worn.
Did Chris Capps really deserve the heaps of scorn from last season? Why or why not? You can also ride the fence if you so choose, but fence posts are mighty uncomfortable.
What do you expect Saban to do when “daddy comes home” and calls the arrested players on the carpet? Or does he?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Journalism is for Rockstars (host)

C&W Roundtable - July 13, 2007

2007-07-13T12:00:00.009-05:00

Why do you think the Tide offense had trouble scoring touchdowns inside the red zone the last few seasons?
Do you think the Tide's red zone offense will be improved this season and why?
Who is your go to guy on offense when the Tide is inside the 20?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Eight in the Box (host)

C&W Roundtable - July 6, 2007

2007-07-06T12:00:00.004-05:00

Based on the rankings and our strengths & weaknesses, is there a team you can see Alabama upsetting this season?
Likewise, is there a team that could upset Alabama? If so, please name them both.
Finally, how important is it for Nick Saban to win a bowl game his first season as head coach?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Memphis Tider
Newspaper Hack
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid (host)

C&W Roundtable - June 29, 2007

2007-06-29T12:00:00.003-05:00

Do you put any stock into the superstition that an Alabama coach won't turn out well if he wins his first game?
If this is the case, since Coach Saban is playing Western Carolina to start off the season, is this a sign of bad things to come?
If you don't put a lot of stock in this, give us a couple of your gameday superstitions, if you have any.

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Roll Bama Roll
Roll Crimson Tide
Tide Druid
Memphis Tider (host)

C&W Roundtable - June 22, 2007

2007-06-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Do you think Alabama should retire jersey numbers under special circumstances and, if so, what should those circumstances be?
Is there any number you'd like to see retired?

Bama Nation
Capstone Report
Eight in the Box
Journalism is for Rockstars
Memphis Tider
Tide Druid
Roll Bama Roll (host)

C&W Roundtable - April 20, 2007

2007-04-20T09:13:00.003-05:00

Considering the media lockout on practices and scrimmages, what have you been able to glean from the scant reports, player and coach soundbites, and official releases about how spring practice has been going?
That being said, what are you expecting to see on A-Day?
What are you hoping to see on A-Day?
What are you afraid you will see on A-Day?
What area of the team will you be concentrating on the hardest during the scrimmage?
Which recruit that we won't be hearing from until fall do you think has both the opportunity and ability to make an immediate impact for the Tide?
With a crowded backfield vying for the start, which RB do you hope we see the most of next season, not necessarily because you think he's the most talented, but because you just plain like him?
Knock on wood, here, but which player can we least afford to lose to injury this season?
Conversely, what (projected) starter could we lose without any significant loss at that position?
If you could take one player from this year's squad (a starter or a prominent backup, no fair dropping the third string center that isn't even on scholarship) and replace him with one that departed last season, who would you replace and with whom?
Purely for fun, which movie coming out this summer are you most looking forward to?

Eight in the Box
Memphis Tider
Newspaper Hack
Roll Bama Roll (host)