Alabama All Day: Concluding Thoughts
by Peter Bean on Dec 23, 2009 3:36 PM CST
in Texas Longhorns Football
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PrintScattered parting thoughts on Alabama after watching the SEC Championship Game:
- The complete series of 'Alabama All Day' posts can be found here.
- It's a small thing, but one that shouldn't be overlooked and can't be over-emphasized: Alabama's tailbacks finish their runs. It's a yard here, two yards there, but their offense depends on those three yard runs picking up five because Ingram or Richardson or Upchurch takes a hit without ceding momentum. They keep the chains moving, keep the defense off the field, and move drives into field goal range.
- On a related note: Texas must-must-must tackle well. The importance of the little things are amplified exponentially against Alabama. They want to out-execute you and win on the margins. Extra yards on missed tackles are an outcome-defining variable.
- After studying Alabama more closely than I had all year, I'm more impressed by their offense and less intimated by their defense. The offense is balanced, steady, physical, and synchronized -- like something you more often see in an NFL team. The defense is superb, but short of dominant. The linebackers not named Rolando McClain are merely solid; Cory Reamer borders on an out-and-out weakness. The defensive line is excellent at filling gaps, maintaining assignments, and containing the inside rush game, but as a group they're a notch below both Nebraska and Oklahoma (thank God). The secondary is very solid and more than capable of creating turnovers, but the linebackers make the Crimson Tide a team against which you can pass the ball.
Florida was a lot closer to breaking through offensively than the final suggests; they were plagued by inexcusable drops on multiple occasions that negated what would have been difference-making plays. One could fairly estimate 10-14 points were left off the board just because of Gators drops. - I'll be interested to see how Alabama decides to deal with Shipley. If they defend with the same zone principles they deployed to deal with Tebow, Shipley's going to present them with a lot of trouble. If Alabama takes a different approach -- Saban and Smart are not stupid, after all -- the importance of Colt McCoy rushing the football cannot be overstated.
- Back to the Bama offense: I was very impressed with their offensive line and how well they worked together as a run-blocking unit. Left guard Mike Johnson is as good as any I've seen play this year. In pass protection, the Tide are slightly less impressive, and one of the key match ups of the game will be LT James Carpenter -- who struggles at times -- against Texas's defensive ends. It'll be a big boost to the Longhorns if Alabama is forced to adjust their blocking schemes to provide help.
- I think Julio Jones can be dealt with one-on-one and that the bigger threat is getting mismatched in coverage of either Peek or Maze -- both are a problem for linebackers. What makes Alabama so tough offensively is their diversity; the power rushing game is consistent and demands uncompromising attention, but they do a really nice job passing out of rush looks, in particular with Peek and Maze. Add in a legit screen game and you can't overemphasize any one thing defensively. The balance commands respecting a multitude of options.
- Florida's punter did a great job punting high and to the sidelines to neutralize Alabama's excellent return man Javier Arenas. I'm curious whether Texas will do the same with John Gold or try to keep Arenas from returns with the rugby-punting of Justin Tucker, which has been erratic in its effectiveness this year.
- I'd be surprised if either Texas or Alabama got a special teams touchdown and also lost the game. Kick coverage will be big.
- Alabama's offense is a rhythm offense and I'll feel a whole lot better if Texas can make a play or two early that gets McElroy thinking out there. When he's comfortable, they're going to move steadily down the field as often as not. A turnover and/or a few jarring blows will help the Longhorns immensely.
- And finally, let's just hope that Colt McCoy doesn't try to do too much, all at once. He needs to be steady and patient, taking his shots downfield where he can, and not getting carried away with antsy feet in the pocket when there's time for receivers to break open.
- This is gonna be fun. Two weeks to kickoff...
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Thanks PB
Good reads, fun distractions all day. Have a Merry Christmas.
by Infield Elephant on Dec 23, 2009 3:46 PM CST reply actions
Agree with everything except...
that you think Alabama’s defense is a cut below Nebraska and Oklahoma. If you guys have played a linebacker the calibar of McClain all year I would be shocked and if there is a similar secondary out there I would be very surprised as well. What makes Alabama’s defense so good is the scheme’s Coach Saban and Coach Smart put in and the timeing of the blitzes. More likely than not you will see alot more of those in the National Title Game than we did agianst Florida.
I have no arguement on that.
Alabama is still missing a true Jack LB, to make this defense really special.
Auburn fans are like slinkys... not really good for anything but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs.
also realize
the D-Line’s job against Florida was containing Tebow (for obvious reasons). Primary goal was making sure no one ran past him on the rush.
the emphasis on containment
rather than targeting the quarterback for a sack is a hallmark of this defense.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
The chances of playing a linebacker the caliber of McClain are pretty low
Unless one actually plays Alabama. I honestly don’t think there are more than five guys in the nation who are in his league at the position.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 4:22 PM CST up reply actions
if there’s 5 teams in america, and you play 12 games or so in a season, the odds are probably a lil better than you think
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 23, 2009 6:18 PM CST up reply actions
Yep, about 4.2%.
And that’s if one limits opponents to only FBS schools.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 7:21 PM CST up reply actions
Not to be a huge dork,
but actually its more like 41.51% that you would play at least one of the 5 teams in a season.
"A lot of people look for the easy way to do anything, in swimming there is no easy way." - Eddie Reese
How so?
It’s been a while since I’ve done statistics, but it’d be fun to get the dorky explanation.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions
Well
The easiest way is to calculate the probability that you play none of the 5 teams in 12 games and subtract from 1.
P(X at least 1) = 1 – P(X=0)
P(X=0) = (115/120)(114/119)(113/118) …..(104/119) = .5849
That means a 58.49% chance of playing NONE of those 5 teams in a 12 game season.
1-.5849 = .4151
So that is a 41.51% chance of playing at least 1.
"A lot of people look for the easy way to do anything, in swimming there is no easy way." - Eddie Reese
For some reason my mind's not working well tonight
I thought simple addition was the appropriate probability in this case.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 10:10 PM CST up reply actions
Following up...
Say the teams are t1, t2, t3, t4, and t5.
The probability of playing at least one of those teams, since playing more than one is possible, should be P(t1) + P(t2) + P(t3) + P(t4) + P(t5) – P(t1 and t2 and t3 and t4 and t5). Since P(t1 and t2 and t3 and t4 and t5) is less than a thousandth of a percent, and we’re on a football board, it can be ignored for our purposes. So the key part is P(t1) + P(t2) + P(t3) + P(t4) + P(t5). Each of those is equal to 1/119th, so wouldn’t the probability be 5(1/119), IOW 5/119, which is about 4.2%?
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 10:25 PM CST up reply actions
...aaaaaand I'm stupid
That is the correct formula if we were talking about just one game. Over a twelve game season, on the other hand…
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 10:26 PM CST up reply actions
glad we got that straight
but I bet they don’t have threads like this at the aggie and sooner (sucks) sites.
by MesquiteHorn on Dec 24, 2009 12:21 AM CST up reply actions
Heh, you're probably right
Sometimes I actually get to almost look smart on those boards.
Now, if only I could troll my way into a discussion of Russian or German use of genetive case…
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 6:35 AM CST up reply actions
no, seriously...
you don’t need to compare SAT scores when your aggie friends come out of one of the UT restrooms and ask you to explain the graffiti they saw on the walls.
by MesquiteHorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:35 AM CST up reply actions
That is what I love about BON
And what has kept me here all this time. The right mix of intellectual snob and sports loving meathead.
Plus the writing these guys do is off the charts.
"A lot of people look for the easy way to do anything, in swimming there is no easy way." - Eddie Reese
Yes, plus
the only scenarios you took into effect are playing one P(t1) and playing all 5 of them P(t1+t2+t3+t4+t5). There are combinations where we play 2 of them, 3 of them, and 4 of them also….. which is why the easiest way is to back up into the answer by subtracting from 1.
I am a total dork, plus a Statistics teacher, so I am pretty sure my answer is right.
"A lot of people look for the easy way to do anything, in swimming there is no easy way." - Eddie Reese
I'll definitely pay due deference, then!
And someday, when BON needs me to construct a Russian sentence in the subjunctive, I’ll expect the same from you!
;)
Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, etc. everyone!
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 10:00 AM CST up reply actions
No worries
And considering I am not even certain what a subjunctive is……I have a feeling that more often than not it will be me deferring to you.
"A lot of people look for the easy way to do anything, in swimming there is no easy way." - Eddie Reese
thanks swimmah, i knew the math worked out to be a pretty decent chance, didn’t feel like busting out my stats book to do the proper math.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:42 AM CST up reply actions
Sean Weatherspoon of Missouri is pretty good, highly underrated nationally.
He’ll be a top NFL pick. But I think you hit the nail on the head, it’s disciplined, assignment defense for the scheme. The key for us will be trying to break down those assignments.
by SpiritOfTheFedora on Dec 23, 2009 7:20 PM CST up reply actions
Great read as always...
I just love the fact that EVERY single person interviewed is picking Bama. People are people and they cannot help but begin to think that they ARE THAT GOOD. This bodes well for the Longhorns…I like it.
"Stats are for losers. I like winning games." - Will Muschamp
"Somebody will always break your records. It is how you live that counts." - Earl Campbell
The way
these players got embarrassed in the Sugar Bowl by not respecting Utah last year I just don’t think they come into this game overconfident. I could be wrong though.
This upcoming season I'm gonna refer to Julio Jones as "The Magic Man" and Trent Richardson as "El Diablo"
by AlabamaTitans2009 on Dec 23, 2009 3:57 PM CST up reply actions
I actually agree.
I think the game is going to be really good.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Dec 23, 2009 3:58 PM CST up reply actions
Yeah
this is going to be a great game. I can’t wait.
This upcoming season I'm gonna refer to Julio Jones as "The Magic Man" and Trent Richardson as "El Diablo"
by AlabamaTitans2009 on Dec 23, 2009 4:00 PM CST up reply actions
The psychological advantage
of #2 vs. #1 is interesting. The two teams are very evenly matched. In the end I think it’s going to come down to the same old tried and true formula, turnovers and running game.
by SpiritOfTheFedora on Dec 23, 2009 7:30 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks for the break down
I really enjoyed an outside perspective into Alabama. However you did not go over the best play of the game…..When our punter made a TD saving tackle on the punt return :).
Great Job, Roll Tide and see ya in two weeks.
Auburn fans are like slinkys... not really good for anything but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs.
We had one of those, too
Colt McCoy saving our season with a tackle on a potential pick-6 against OU. He moved better than our strong safety does :)o
I hate those plays.
by SpiritOfTheFedora on Dec 23, 2009 7:23 PM CST up reply actions
Good Luck
Here’s to seeing two of college football’s class acts play for a championship this year. Yes, I want the Horns to win an injury free (both teams) awesome football game. Happy Holidays! 2 more weeks!
Great Read
Good read. A couple of things… Julio has underachieved all year but cannot be covered one on one… at least not in college. His numbers are down because he’s been all but triple teamed with Maze and Peek being left virtually uncovered. Look for him to have his best game against UT as the layoff will give him time to get healthy for the first time since game 4 of the season.
Alabama’s schemes are what make their defense so good, not their exceptional players, although they happen to have a few of those as well. There is a reason that opposing quarterbacks have underperformed against Bama’s D, they simply cannot get a grasp of where the rush is coming from and what receiver will be open. This is classic Saban and reminds me of the national championship game LSU played against Oklahoma 5 years ago, where Jason White had his worst game of the year.
All that said, McCoy is by far the best QB UA has played and he will give UA all they can handle.
Julio actually got a fair bit of single coverage this year, especially when he wasn’t at full speed. The real reason that it’s dangerous to single-cover Jones, though, is because your corner only has a 50/50 shot (and that’s being generous) of tackling him alone in the open field. If he catches the ball 1-on-1 with no one close enough to help, he’s going to get a ton of yards.
See, e.g., the entire Arkansas defense crowded around him as he pushed for 2-3 more yards.
I'm wrong all the time.
Julio is the least of UT's problems
UT’s defensive backfield of the Brown bros & AWilliams at the corners and Gideon & Thomas at the safeties have clamped down on receivers all year long and all five would definitely likely tackle Jones in the open field one-on-one. Julio Jones is not even the best receiver they’ve seen all year and McElroy sure ain’t the best QB they’ve seen. Now, they may get hung up focusing on run defense and let any one of those receivers get open deep – that’s a lot more likely. But we haven’t yet seen the Texas D get torched through the air all season. The problem against A&M was QB containment. The DBs were clamping down on receivers, Johnson had nowhere to throw while he was getting D-line rush pressure, and he’d just take off running through a crease. McElroy definitely can’t do that. After that game, UT fans knew the frustration for all the other teams in 2005 when Vince was running wild.
This Alabama offense is very similar to OU’s offense: A team that very much likes to run it down your throats, Young QB with talent who is prone to mistakes, big-time talent at the tailback spot, and a good receiver corps anchored by a stud. The only difference is the talent & experience of Bama’s O-line. It’s a big difference, mind you, but UT has proved this year that they feed on stopping run games (#1 nationally).
I’m a lot more concerned about the offense scoring 21 points than I am about the defense. If they score a few, it’ll be enough. Texas’ D & Muschamp’s schemes are that good this year.
What mistakes is he prone to exactly?
The 4 interceptions he has thrown this year? to his 17 touchdowns? I would argue that McCoy is more “Mistake prone”.
by tidefanstuckatlsu on Dec 24, 2009 12:39 AM CST up reply actions
McElroy
What has made McElroy solid all year is his lack of mistakes. Of his 4 interceptions this season, two occurred as he was being hit. Another was a meaningly end of the half Hail Mary. Even during a midseason stretch where his numbers were down, he made good decisions and distributed the ball. He is also a very elusive runner when necessary. He’s just not been asked to tuck it and run like a traditional dual threat QBs. When you have a one-two running punch in the backfield, why let your QB run? He has hurt several opponents this season with his feet though. A 27 yard bootleg opened Bama’s first scoring drive against Mississippi State. He moved the chains on several occasions against Auburn. Then there were some of the most nifty runs you’ll ever see from a QB against Florida.
Alabama will have their hands full on January 7 but the least of the Tide’s worries is going to be their QB play.
homer much??
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Julio's stats . . .
I know he’s talented & all but I looked it up and found that he’s had 40 receptions all year and averages 49.5 yards receiving per game – both TOPS on their TEAM! Wow, talk about a rush-first team. I was thinking they had a more balanced O but I guess not. 194 total team receptions compared to Texas’ 345. No wonder Ingram has shined so much for them. Bama better be careful they don’t get behind in the game. There’s no way they’d ever be able to make a comeback without the ability to pass the ball.
stats are fun
i see that you’re a stat guy (sometimes they can keep you warm and fuzzy), but i wouldn’t underestimate our balance. I mean why pass when you can just keep pounding the football and keep a good offense off the field (Florida anyone?) As far as us getting behind, you might be right, it would be hard to come back, but we’ve done it before this season. But i would bet good money that if we get ahead, its all over but the crying. Look forward to a great game between two storied programs
this is where those nail biters in knoxville and auburn....
might actually pay off. this alabama team knows it can come from behind to win it. last year’s squad didn’t have that same confidence.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
Colt McCoy is one of, if not THE best qb at leading him team down the field for a score against the clock.
He’s done it time and time again. You don’t want Texas to have the ball last with a chance to win it.
3/19/2009 - Dogus Balbay Made a Three-Pointer. Never Forget.
Did you catch the Texas-Nebraska game?
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 9:19 PM CST up reply actions
You talking about the “drive” that started on the 40 and got an extra 15 yards from a personal foul? Wasn’t that basically just one play?
What you're seeing is team spirit. It's like the Holy Spirit, but more powerful.
-Hank Hill
2008 Fiesta Bowl
7-10 for 76 yards on the game winning drive.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 24, 2009 2:03 AM CST up reply actions
I think you'd be surprised at how many comeback wins UT has had the past two seasons
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 6:36 AM CST up reply actions
thats not a good thing...
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
whats the saying.. a champion is someone who gets back up, even when he can’t. i feel like jack dempsey said that and it goes absolutely perfect with your Nick Saban quote
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:26 AM CST up reply actions
Would you say the same
thing about Iowa this year? (not to compare both teams talent)
But if a team is consistently having to “come back” then that shows a weakness in the defense or a O’s ability to seal the deal…
This is more a question then a comment..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Iowa
had to block two field goals to beat Northern Iowa, a FCS team, at home.
Its more like comparing apples to oranges there with Iowa.
And Iowa didn’t come back in 2 of their games this season. If they would have finished undefeated, then there is somewhat of a correlation.
Get off your knees Greg, you're blowin' the game.
This year . . .
. . . other than NU, then no, as we won every game by double digits except for the OU game in which no scoring took place in the last 10+ minutes of the game.
Last season, though, McCoy did lead the last-minute game-winning drive against OSU in the Fiesta Bowl and what was one second short of what would have been a similar game-winning drive against Tech. Given those comebacks, combined with the NU drive (which I’d bet a considerable amount that the players view more as a “game-winning drive” than as a mere “one-play” drive, to answer Zoltar below) I would say that McCoy, and the team, would feel comfortable that they could come back in a similarly pressure-packed situation.
by Hopkins Horn on Dec 24, 2009 1:13 AM CST up reply actions
UA passing game
UA can pass the ball well as well as come from behind… see the Auburn game as an example. You’re right though that UA’s game plan is not to put the ball in the air. Simply put, the most points their team has given up all year have been 24 to VT and 14 of those came off kickoff coverage. UA will look to win this game with field position and defense. If it’s a shootout, UT will have the huge edge.
Personally, I think the story should be Muschamp vs. Saban… understudy vs. mentor. It reminds me of something Spurrier told Bob Stoops when he left for OU, “Just because I taught you everything you know, doesn’t mean I taught you everything I know”. Love him or hate him, Spurrier can throw a zinger.
by Powderturns on Dec 23, 2009 11:23 PM CST up reply actions
Simply put, the most points their team has given up all year have been 24 to VT and 14 of those came off kickoff coverage.
take this observation and pete’s point about the importance of special teams and you have found the big chink in our armor. our kicking squads have done much better over the last few games but its still not nearly as good as it needs to be.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
I am going to be holding my breath
every time we kickoff/punt.
(hopefully it is mostly the former)
At least Texas fans will probably be doing the same when they kick it.
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 11:10 AM CST up reply actions
I wouldn't be surprised
if both teams have one non-offensive TD in the game.
by aaronlybrand on Dec 25, 2009 6:58 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Bama run vs pass
Ask Virginia Tech and Auburn about Alabama’s ability to come back from a deficit. The passing game is there and lethal when called upon. It just hasn’t been necessary for them much this year.
Don’t let the stats fool you. Often times Bama has gotten comfortable leads and shut the passing game down midway through the 3rd quarter. Alabama didn’t throw the ball in the final 20 minutes of the Florida game. They didn’t need to.
The Tide’s goal is to pound and pound and wear opponents down in the fourth quarter.
And at the end of the day, McElroy is Alabama's qb....
I would probably shut down the passing game early too if he was our qb
by SneezyBeltran on Dec 24, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions
Our scheme uses the safeties a lot for deep coverage
One of the principles is to let the front seven stop the run and the secondary well, cover people. I doubt that Julio will see much strictly one on one coverage.
by SpiritOfTheFedora on Dec 23, 2009 7:40 PM CST up reply actions
McCoy is the best...
But not by far. Mallet was very good this year and Tebow is well Tebow. I think that will be interesting considering McCoy’s numbers agianst top 40 pass defenses.
by REG233710 on Dec 23, 2009 5:23 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
top 40 pass defenses
Not to over simplify but it was not so much the back seven that gave Colt problems as much as the front fours that gave the Texas O-line problems. It doesn’t matter whether it is McCoy or McElroy if you are running for your life then your numbers will not be pretty. The absence of a true tight end for two years has limited what Colt has done.
I agree, not by much.
But McCoy is definitely the biggest threat Bama’s faced from the QB spot all year. Mallet was definitely one-dimensional and also lacking talent from the other skill positions. Tebow has become a little one-dimensional towards a running game and UF’s offense only perpetuates it. Say what you will about Greg Davis but with Colt running this spread offense, it’s pretty hard to stop everything they do.
A BIG key will be Bama containing Colt the same way they contained Tebow in scrambling. All you have to do is look back at the 7-12 loss to A&M 4 years ago to see what good DB coverage and D-line containment will do to him. Bama won’t be the pressuring sack machine that OU & NU were. I knew that Terence Cody was a major space-eater but did you guys realize that he’s had 24 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and ZERO sacks ALL YEAR?! I just looked that up. I think Kindle or Houston may have done that in one game plus tacked on a few sacks too.
I knew that Terence Cody was a major space-eater but did you guys realize that he’s had 24 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and ZERO sacks ALL YEAR?
yes, we did know. and as terry over at war blog eagle explained in the recent SB Nation All-SEC Team presentation, that’s kind of the point. this defense isn’t as interested in putting grass stains on the quarterback’s jersey as stopping the run and making him throw incompletions or worse into our secondary.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
it’s interesting because the times that mccoy are the worst are when he’s getting constant continuous pressure in his face and his receivers can’t get seperation in those first few seconds. and considering our run game isn’t what fuels us, stopping it and praying for your secondary to constantly cover our receivers may not be a great plan. but maybe it is. it’s often said if you give a qb enough time to throw, a receiver will get open, you can’t cover 100% 100% of the time. but we’ll just have to see how the game works out. either way, if you don’t bring pressure in the beginning and we’re moving the chains because of passing, saban’ll make the adjustments to bring more pressure on colt.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:49 AM CST up reply actions
we do however
have our fair share of sacks… Its just that alot of them are from linebackers safeties and corners…
by tidefanstuckatlsu on Dec 24, 2009 11:11 AM CST up reply actions
I think he's the most complete.
Mallet is the best passer, and Tebow is the best runner, but I honestly think McCoy is a more complete college QB than these two.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Dec 24, 2009 7:53 AM CST up reply actions
I think Mallett's the best pure passer I've seen in college in a while
But I’m not actually as thrilled with Tebow’s running. He’s definitely no VY, and I don’t think he’s even a Colt. Colt’s in a different scheme, one that doesn’t use his running in the same way, so I guess it’s hard to tell.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:08 AM CST up reply actions
tebow can truck stick every player from the linebackers back (ie not the dline), colt has truck sticked players (see the Rice game last year), but it’s not an every game occurance. and this year he’s seemed more hesitant to run, perhaps something told to him by the coaches so he wouldn’t risk injury throughout the course of a long championship bound season.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:51 AM CST up reply actions
"Truck sticked"?
This isn’t a video game. Besides, there’s a whole lot more to running than just breaking tackles, and Colt’s better at almost everything but the bulldozing.
I think Colt’s not so much more hesitant to run, but rather has been coached not to run as much unless it’s a critical point in the game. There have been very, very few critical points in games this season, which has meant less running.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:17 AM CST up reply actions
i can describe whatever i want however i want. i wasn’t making an argument for tebow’s superior running, but explaining that they’re different styles of runners. tebow is more of a fullback, colt a rb, if you want to gain 3-5 yards and/or score? put in tebow. if you want someone to break one for potentially 20? put in colt.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:29 AM CST up reply actions
My point was that Tebow's not necessarily the best runner of the group
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:36 AM CST up reply actions
right, and my point was each is better at a different aspect of running. 859, 673 ~4yd/carry vs 348, 561 ~4yd/carry. and honestly, i think tebow is the better runner. colt makes some great decisions and runs for good chunks of yards especially when the play breaks down, but tebow makes those yards happen on designed qb runs. ie : colts the better scrambler, tebows the better runner.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 10:02 AM CST up reply actions
Agree about Mallet...
and I’ve said as much in conversation. At the risk of sounding overly-romantic, he’s had some throws this year the pure aesthetics of which has taken my breath away. The ball just looks right when it comes off his arm.
by BrooklynHorn on Dec 24, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks PB...
for taking the time to do an in-depth breakdown of the SEC Title game. Great read as always.
Have a great Xmas Horn and Tide fans.
15 days to go.
ATX
Nice analysis, PB...
but could you (or someone) explain how Tennessee (and other close opponents that i cant recall right now) gave Alabama fits? What will Texas learn from those games? Im not asking for nearly an extensive breakdown such as this one, but some kind of general idea.
Throw Ya Horns, Mayne
a great place to start
is with RBR’s outsidethesidelines initial breakdowns of the tennessee and auburn games. the short answer is that this is a team that has tremendous potential but for the past two years has only shown it in spurts. the seccg was the first time they played up to their potential from start to finish.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
I am in the processs of watching the Tennessee game
and will hopefully have some thoughts on it up in the next few days but I’ve been busier than expected.
by Wescott Eberts (GoBR) on Dec 23, 2009 10:24 PM CST up reply actions
No one addressed this properly...
Alabama’s two “tough games” came against Tennessee and Auburn, each of which had a bye week prior to playing Alabama. In fact, the Iron Bowl was on a Friday, so Bama had a 6-day turnaround compared to 13 days for the Tigers.
That’s not to excuse the great effort by those teams, but that factor shouldn’t be overlooked.
Since Texas and Alabama have had an equal layoff, that shouldn’t play a role here.
(For what it’s worth, SIX of Alabama’s eight SEC opponents next year have elected to schedule their bye week prior to playing the Tide. It’s unprecedented, and only LSU will fail to gain an advantage because Bama takes that week off too…)
Speaking of dropped passes
I know it’s a subject that’s been beaten to death, but what would our perspective be if Kirkendoll makes the catches the way he did the second half of the year. I’m hoping if a wr makes a drop in the nc game Bobby Kennedy subs for them to send a message. But hasn’t that been why Mack’s won his last 5 bowls, post season open competition.
by Jrusso72 on Dec 23, 2009 5:29 PM CST via mobile reply actions
There is a reason this is the BCS Championship game
Not much to take away from either team. It’s hard to finish 13-0 in any conference, let alone the SEC and Big 12. Two great teams, great coordinators, and great players…what more would you want? Both teams have strengths that can/will have success against the other.
Too close to call, good luck to all. That said, God bless Craig Biggio. The man inspired me for nearly two decades.
MATRIX: Bennett, I thought you were--
BENNETT: Dead? You thought wrong. Ever since you had me thrown out of the unit, I've been waiting to pay you back. Do you know what today is, Matrix? Payday.
To not be as impressed with Alabama’s defense as you thought would be very foolish. If Texas’ coaches think like this, than you should expect a whipping
If Alabama's coaches...
…have as simple-minded a reaction to a solid analysis, you should expect a whipping.
see now you are saying that was a solid anaysis, which is very debatable anyway
by CrimsonTide229 on Dec 23, 2009 11:00 PM CST up reply actions
We rarely debate those who do not know the difference between "than" and "then".
Principles of causality are far more complex than principles of football.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 23, 2009 11:21 PM CST up reply actions
o here we go with the english major. shut the fuck up no one cares. i think i may have missed some capitalization so don’t bother commenting
by CrimsonTide229 on Dec 24, 2009 2:11 AM CST up reply actions
So this is what you do?
You come over to other boards, insult people, and tell them to STFU? That’s called being a bad guest. If I had to guess, I’d think you couldn’t have been an English major if you’d tried.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 6:40 AM CST up reply actions
just a reminder...
todd’s rule about banning is still in place. get booted from any sb nation site and you just got booted from RBR.
the interaction between RBR and BON this month has been great and we’d like to keep it going. trash talk should be taken elsewhere.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
+1
I’ve enjoyed heck out of it. After Kleph’s series in the long history I know a lot more about the story of both teams rootsin glory and struggles and can appreciate that. Y’all have a great program here( and a great site in BON) and this comradery(sp?) has made it easier to pull for me to pull for a nonSEC team in Texas (when not playing our beloved Tide) in the future.
Whether win or lose I think it’s great that two fanbases got together for such discussion for a couple weeks before their battle . Shows a lot of class by MOST fans of both tems.
'Mark Ingram' is the Heisman Winner!
Actually, political science.
And of all the grammatical and spelling errors this week, yours is the only one I pointed out. I figured someone should point out that you have nothing to contribute except ignorance.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 24, 2009 2:42 PM CST up reply actions
i thought someone needed to tell you noone cares
by CrimsonTide229 on Dec 24, 2009 3:25 PM CST up reply actions
Heh, having been to Alabama, I suppose no one you know may care.
Folks do on a University of Texas Blog.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 25, 2009 11:53 AM CST up reply actions
dude..
i kinda, sorta defended you…stop now please…you’re starting to make me look bad..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
i look forward to your solid analysis of why alabama’s defense is better than PB has stated and why Texas corches are gonna get a whippin
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:53 AM CST up reply actions
Great read, but...
…the limitation is, of course, that it’s just one game. And it was the game Bama started practicing for the day after last year’s loss to Utah. I said this after your last installment, but we have to remember that through most of the season Bama’s top offensive ‘weapon’ was Tiffin…at least their top scoring weapon. Against defenses far inferior to Texas’ (or, in fairness, to Florida’s) the Tide had trouble getting into the end zone. They settled for field goals all year.
So the real question when Alabama has the ball is…which team shows up? The one who played lights out one time, or the one who struggled scoring touchdowns the rest of the year?
Of course, we can ask a similar question about Texas’ offense. Which one shows up…the one who laid a large painful turd against Nebraska, or the one that led the nation in scoring virtually all year?
41-38 !!
well you also need to keep in mind...
one reason tiffin got to be a superstar was by breakdowns in the red zone offense. using his leg to win games wasn’t exactly part of the plan. what this game showed is why that reliance isn’t necessary when the offense is performing to the level it is capable.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
Man if this game comes down to a field goal, no doubt in my mind it'll split the uprights.
Both teams have proven, clutch kickers.
3/19/2009 - Dogus Balbay Made a Three-Pointer. Never Forget.
that’s exactly what JoeT said… his question is which team shows up, the one prone to breakdowns in the red zone or the one who can score TDs?
the interesting thing about Texas is how many points they scored that weren’’t by the offense. kick returns, punt returns, interception returns made up what i’d estimate 20% of our total points this year. someone wanna go do the real math for me?
another interesting thing about Texas is how many points scored against them weren’t the fault of the defense. either given a short field because of a turnover (and often keeping teams to a fieldgoal, see Nebraska), or just some poor kick coverage giving the other team outstandign field position.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:59 AM CST up reply actions
also, anyone who liked pete's examination of the bama defense
might want to take a look at this post over at smart football breaking down the x’s and o’s of saban’s defensive philosophy. it gives a lot of the logic behind the various points pete drew attention to today.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
JoeT63 hit it right on the head........
Which team is going to show up ? The Tide that rolled over Florida? The Horns that crushed Oklahoma State and Missouri in their stadiums ? The Bama that struggled against Tenn and Auburn or the Texas that struggled against Oklahoma and Nebraska.
Thats why they play the games. Who gets or makes the breaks early, and who is going to fight through adversity, is going to win.
Hook em’ – Tide
It should be a great game !
Can't get enough of that cowbell !!!
by MeatchickenHorn on Dec 23, 2009 7:25 PM CST reply actions
honestly...
a second bowl game collapse from alabama is not likely but it’s by no mean assured they will play to the level they did in this game.
by the same token, it’s highly unlikely texas is going to play as poorly as they did against nebraska but will they be able to get it into the highest gears by jan. 7 is an open question.
like coach saban said, this ain’t no david vs goliath. these are two damn good teams squaring off for all the marbles.
Roll 'Bama Roll: The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs.
oh YOU'RE no help, kleph.
Where’s that schmoe that was telling people to STFU?!! (Speaking of which, here’s to intelligence and civility.)
41-38 !!
Unfortunately, it appears all the intangibles are favoring the Horns.....
I just dont know if the intangibles will be enough.
Can't get enough of that cowbell !!!
by MeatchickenHorn on Dec 23, 2009 8:05 PM CST reply actions
You gotta believe!!!
It’s all part of the process.
by SpiritOfTheFedora on Dec 23, 2009 8:15 PM CST up reply actions
Just stir in some tangibles.
You have a four-year starter at QB who has seen most everything that a defense can throw at you in the college realm. There’s much more, with comparable values on the D with experience and skill.
We didn’t come this far for you to go shaky-legged on us. Now, buck up, son.
Shucks Boss.....
Being on this SEC HomeBoy site, you wouldn’t want to get to bragadocious, being a guest and all. These big red elephants are ridin’ pretty high right now.
Can't get enough of that cowbell !!!
by MeatchickenHorn on Dec 23, 2009 10:01 PM CST up reply actions
Why wouldn't they be enough?
Is it your contention that Alabama is superior in the tangibles?
by burntorangehorn on Dec 23, 2009 9:21 PM CST up reply actions
Vegas has looked at all the tangibles and intangibles and say Bama by 4.5......
And whats wrong with you boy, Vegas is NEVER wrong……
cept in 05 -—usc by 8
Can't get enough of that cowbell !!!
by MeatchickenHorn on Dec 23, 2009 10:23 PM CST reply actions
lol...UF was 5.5 Vegas favorite over the Tide
uhggg ;-)
roll tide
vegas lines are based on what people think is giong to happen, if mroe people are betting bama, the bama line moves up, if more people are betting Texas the line moves the opposite way.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:02 AM CST up reply actions
exactly...
the line in Vegas never represents what their experts think will happen in the game, only what their experts think gamblers will do. Its strange that this still is not commonly understood.
by BrooklynHorn on Dec 24, 2009 1:18 PM CST up reply actions
Great, great stuff today...
…just wanted to chime in and say that this was a great series.
Made me feel better and worse about the game, sometimes within the same post…
Excellent work PB
It’s clear I’ve been underrating their offense and probably overrating their defense. With that said, this is their QB’s first BCS bowl game ever, so we may be able to rattle him with Kindle, Houston, and ET. Getting Monroe and Scott back could be huge for special teams.
If this game is close, Texas has to get the edge based on Mack Brown’s record in close games.
by goingforthecorner on Dec 23, 2009 10:31 PM CST reply actions
Great Analysis of Bama
I have greatly appreciated your analysis of Bama. I do not agree with every single point, for you have underestimated Bama’s defense. The Longhorns do not have a single SEC team on its schedule in which to compare SEC defenses. Today, I was told on this board that Tebow could not read defenses. I am no Gator fan, but if there is one thing that we have learned playing Florida for the last four years, Tebow can read defenses. Maybe if you guys had played Florida, you would think better of Tebow and the SEC. I do not mean this in an ugly way, but I hope that the Longhorn team takes Bama as lightly as the posters on this board do. I can assure, no one on the Crimson Tide team is underestimating Texas. We have the utmost respect for the Longhorns, and we expect a blood and guts fight on January 7.
Agreed.
As an Alabama fan, I think the analysis is pretty accurate also. Saban is ahead of schedule in terms of the talent on the field — the reality is that most of the true Tide studs are still learning how to play and Texas probably has much more experienced talent.. For instance on defense, the only true studs are Darius, McClain and Barron (and maybe Cody). Thats about it since Hightower got hurt. Several defensive starters are far from physical specimens — Reamer was a reach in getting an offer as a DB and Anders was all but a walkon for instance. But the defense plays as well as a unit as any team in the country — even as well at that unconquerable Nebraska defense. It starts with Cody forcing everything out even if he doesn’t have any sacks. All that being said, I still like the Tide’s chances.
This "SEC defense" meme is an interesting phenomenon
PB referred to Alabama’s defense as “superb”, but not dominant – I would presume in the 2001 Miami Hurricanes usage of the word. How is this “underestimating”? Neither UT or Alabama has displayed that level of dominance. Alabama’s defense is very, very good. It is among the best in the country, but it is not one that will be a standard against which all other defenses of the decade are measured. It is superb, but it will not be feted.
The Longhorns do not have a single SEC team on the regular season schedule. The schedule was also bereft of Big 10, Pac 10, Big East, Mountain West, and Big East contenders. Oddly, despite this handicap the schedule still had the same defense that held a 2008 Florida National Championship team to its lowest scoring production of the season. True, the Texas players have not played an “SEC defense”, but do not be so insular as to think that they have not played a defense of similar quality.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 24, 2009 2:00 AM CST up reply actions
just because the SEC is known for it’s defense does not mean that top to bottom the SEC is better than the entire Big12… when Texas holds you under what you scored on Florida think back to this post and how Texas did what the “best defense in the country” up until a few weeks ago accomplished.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:05 AM CST up reply actions
in an offense happy league your team still struggled. don’t justify that by saying the defenses are better than we thought
Defense
was much better in the Big 12 this year. In fact, league-wide the defenses were probably better than the offenses, mostly due to some good quarterbacks who graduated.
by Wescott Eberts (GoBR) on Dec 24, 2009 3:07 AM CST up reply actions
who graduated?
The swine flu takes a Will Muschamp shot every September.
by pleaseplaykindle on Dec 24, 2009 6:38 PM CST up reply actions
Big 12 teams with first year starters at QB
Missouri
Texas Tech
OU
Baylor (after Griffin lost for season early)
Colorado (after benching coaches’ slow, inaccurate son)
Nebraska
Kansas State
Can't see a thing I disagree with
it was mentioned by a CBS guy couple games prior to UF that Bama’s DLine wasn’t as good with up front pressure as UF. I agree with that and agree it’s not as good as OU or Neb. Still, Bama has won and has similar sack totals as UF, which at one time, had the #1 D ranking ahead of Tx. So it is ‘not as good’, but it is undefeated. Not throwing that back at you…just thinking out loud.
Good read. Roll Tide !
Bama's kick coverage is also undefeated
That doesn’t mean it’s any good.
CBS guy?
If you’re talking about Gary Danielson, then everything you said after that sounds like Charlie Brown’s teacher. I hope we can all at least agree that Danielson is a complete doofus.
41-38 !!
He's an idiot
but still better than Verne.
It’s like to pay the SEC a huge sum for coverage they had to cutback on announcing talent.
'Mark Ingram' is the Heisman Winner!
Ha! Perfect!!
Let’s further agree that we will take a shot each time Danielson says “Tebow”. You just KNOW he’ll find a way to work it in…even without Flerda involved at all!
41-38 !!
If SECBS did the National Championship Game
I would be watching ESPN Gamecast.
by future_longhorn_dad on Dec 24, 2009 10:06 AM CST up reply actions
Not better than Verne....
I’m not going to sit here and defend our fellow Longhorn Verne, but Danielson is a boring and less-funnier version of John Madden.
Gary Danielson is terrible, at least John Madden makes you laugh during the game
by SneezyBeltran on Dec 24, 2009 2:48 PM CST up reply actions
Bowling for Dollars
Does anyone else remember Verne hosting Bowling for Dollars on Channel 8 in the 70’s. Makes me laugh every time I think of him announcing figure skating. That was his peter principle job.
Bama's O-Line
The only game I watched Bama play this year was the Florida game, and the single most impressive unit to me was their offensive line. These guys aren’t that big, but, man, are they a solid bunch. They’re crisp in executing their assignments and they’re obviously well coached. Very sound unit.
I’ve got all the faith in the world in our DL and Muschamp’s ability to get them prepared, but they’ll have their hands full. They’re going to have to play head’s up ball all day. If they can do that, I like our chances against Bama’s offense.
Merry Christmas an a few comments
Bama plays a 3-4 defense and a nickel on passing downs. It can run a 4-4 if necessary, but that is rare. When comparing our D-line to a 4-4 or 4-6 that is comparing apples to oranges. The best way to compare defenses is by comparing the front 7’s. Maybe this was what you were doing. Many only consider the hand in the dirt players as the D-line. Certainly, Bama’s down 3 linemen do not put as much pressure on the QB as someone’s 4 down linemen; however, our LB’s and SS do that. Our front 7 is as good as or better than anything Texas has faced.
I'd wager to say Suh is worth three of your players.
At least from what I’d seen in the NU games I’d caught.
TEXAS FIGHT
is there one point that bama fans don't defend [read: excuse]
geez, reading these posts seem like i’m dealing with an ex
“you know you have a point, but i totally disagree because … "
leave it up to these posts and the ones over at roll bama this is the most talented, disciplined team in the world, capable of any and all feats and we must play beyond perfect
and even THEN they still must make mistakes for us to win
saban is a genius
distraction is never an issue
the running game never shuts down except when it does
the passing game is always great except when it is
mcelroy is a great qb, except when he’s a manager
i wouldn’t put these fans in the same ilk as the cornnation posters that i watched or god forbid some texags
but can we say delusions of grandeur much?
here’s the scenario, these are two excellent teams each with flaws and weaknesses and we should see one hell of a game
other than that, get off the elitist high horse if you believe your team is beyond reproach
cody is not suh so stop with that theme right there
mcclain may be very good, but is he the 2 to 3 headed monster of ou
the big 12 isn’t the least talented league in the country
sure arkansas beat the crap out of aggie
so oklahoma state beat the crap out of georgia
you know what that says about this game in two weeks, absolutely nothing
mccoy isn’t ryan mallet – he’s a four year starter and the winningest of all time in college football
our o-line has played like crap at times, but it’s not exactly the make shift line of oklahoma, geez
we ARE undefeated
we do have both a short and vertical passing game
we do have a rotation of running backs with various skills
our defense is ELITE, we DO have the number 1 run defense in the nation
that same defense that held oklahoma to -16 read: NEGATIVE SIXTEEN yards rushing on the day
i was all for open debate, making concessions and all that
but at this point i’m putting my foot down and saying WE ARE TEXAS, and you better come prepared to beat us
because we haven’t only lost one game in the last two years by luck, and we damn sure don’t plan on giving away a championship
i’m peacing out to the game, HOOK EM
its funny that you conisder your defense as elite
and many UT fans (on this board at least) think of our defense as above average…thats really funny to me.
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
is elite not also above average? also, who said your defense was only “above average?” i think you’re overreacting a lil to criticisms of your defense. again, any criticism of our defense would probably be likewise met with overreaction. so it’s not like we’re above that. our defense is stellar, but not unstoppable. just like yours.
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:10 AM CST up reply actions
i guess so..
1st..i agree about our LB’s. If there is a weak spot on this D, its that group…but thats a big IF. We are little thin there with the loss of Hightower but its not like im worried about it. Reamer is one of those players that when you see him you’re like “What is that guy out there for?” but somehow he makes plays..there are a lot of guys with better talent on the team but he’s won his spot every year…
So i guess im just a little surprised to hear someone is more worried about our offense then our defense…
Quick observation…When UT played against the best defenses they faced (OU and Nebraska)..the offense struggled a lot…When Alabama faced the best defenses..the offense showed up…When our D faced a good offense (say for Auburn) is shut them down…
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
quick info bomb
of the teams that we faced this season
rushing defense
number 4 in the country – ucf
number 6 oklahoma state
number 8 oklahoma
number 11 nebraska
number 12 missouri
it’s a different game, against different teams
so yeah, it’s not like we’ve faced a MAC schedule of defenses
never said you did..
but one would agree that the offenses in the Big12 are better than those in the SEC and vice versa for the Defense…which makes all stats a wash, right?
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
the big 12 lost a lot of qbs and skill players from last year
it’s not the same offensive powerhouse that it was a year ago
mizzo lost their tight end, qb, and star receiver
kansas was down a man, i cant remember the freak receiver they had
osu was down a tight end and star receiver and their qb was hurting
bradford was gone, gresham went down for oklahoma and they were breaking in a pretty green receiving corp
colorado is colorado, but even they lost a tight end
baylor was down robert griffin, who is a game changer, even if it is baylor
texas tech was bringing in a new qb, and they lost their star receiver
in fact the only team that had all of their offensive skill players in the big 12 this year was texas a&m, and boy were they good
I wouldn't say
all stats are totally a WASH, but I would certainly say the schedule has a significant effect on the stats. UT obviously wouldn’t have the #1 rushing defense in the nation if its ability to stop the run weren’t great. At the same time, I doubt they’d be #1 in rushing defense if they were in the SEC (though I’m sure they’d still be high).
But of course there’s no way to know that. All we DO know is the stats we/they DO have.
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 10:54 AM CST up reply actions
and ironically lousiana monroe is 21st
didn’t see that one coming
the gist is, it’s not as if we haven’t faced good, run stopping defenses
we have and won
absolutely true, they were able to get the most pressure out of anyone on colt and limit his time to throw. bama’s dline seems more about trying to play contain than it is getting to the qb. the only truly embarassing game for our defense was A&M, there are plenty of excuses to be had but all in all our boys got whipped that night. hopefully they got some motivation out of it and we won’t see them flat and unprepared against bama (they had a short week, had an extra day off, and muschamp forced too much stuff on ’em at once, TON of confusions during the game as plays were being called in from the sideline, just a poor showing all around).
by Displaced Longhorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:34 AM CST up reply actions
I'd give abcdmetrius a pass, bammer
…and other Bama fans. Texas is 26-1 over the past two seasons yet we certainly feel underappreciated. All we do is win, including our bowl games, and there’s always a stream of ‘experts’ pointing out our flaws and giving reasons why we can’t win. It happened before USC four years ago and it’s happening again now. We have a terrific program, and a terrific team. It’d be nice if we could get SOME praise for that during the month before the big game.
Now, if the team uses it as motivation and it helps lead to a win…that’s great. I guess we’re looking for the coronation that USC, Florida, Oklahoma, and (this year) Alabama seem to receive each year.
41-38 !!
dude trust me..
Texas is a great team..and im more worried about them then i was about UF..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
I hear ya...
…and thanks. Let’s hope for a great game, no injuries…and (knock on wood) no pre-game suspensions! Ha!
41-38 !!
Dont Worry
Any pre-game incidents will be penalized by having to sit out from minute 12:00 to minute 8:00 of the 2nd quarter
by future_longhorn_dad on Dec 24, 2009 10:09 AM CST up reply actions
Unless there is a DUI
in which case they’ll be fully reinstated before the game
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 11:27 AM CST up reply actions
This goes for some of the Bama fans, but definitely not all
There have been some others in here and on RBR who have been genuinely great at recognizing the difference between strengths and weaknesses, and of course even some who argue every point aren’t really doing anything some of us wouldn’t do in the same position.
I get the feeling that some of the guests we’re seeing are just the bandwagoneers who don’t really watch the games all that closely, and just want to talk smack because it makes them feel like they’re part of something. It’s like they think they’re investing in their football team.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 8:29 AM CST up reply actions
i really think you should read all of the comments closely
don’t like the i agree fool you
they’re typically followed by a “but” and a counter point which is usually the exact opposite of what they’re agreeing to in the first place
I think thats a little off base
First I think this is a great write up and it gives me a perspective that I miss sometimes from being to close to Alabama. I admit we have flaws and have not seen or talked to any reasonable Bama fan that feels this way. I place no stock in the Neb game because just before the Florida game we had our hands full against Aub. I expect this to be an epic game between to classic programs. I love Saban and would not trade him for anything but Mack has been ringing people up for years now and if you can do that year in and year out in the Big Xll simply put that means you know how to coach football. I think most Bama people on here are a little bit bigger then you are making us sound.
by chinesedentist on Dec 24, 2009 8:33 AM CST up reply actions
i haven't seen a single
bama fan act like an ass here…most..if not all are just engaging in football talk but just so happen to be defending their team.
1. We are all homers..no matter what anyone says. Our allegiance is to OUR team and will defend it to the death.
2. We are all football fans. If you are a fan of either Texas or Alabama, there is a strong chance you have some clue what you are talking about. Both teams are deep in tradition and if you follow the teams closely, you’ll watch enough football to have some knowledge of the game.
3. These teams are #1 and #2 for a reason. The alabama defense is rated #1 for a reason and the Texas offense is great for a reason. Ingram and McCoy were heisman finalist for a reason. And our coaches have won BCS NCs for a reason..
My point is this…You are out of your mind if you think that a write up of this size, over our best game in nearly a decade, wouldn’t draw a huge crowd of Alabama fans…
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
nobody said 'bama fans are acting like an ass
just staunch defenders and excusers of any and all criticism
things i can tell you about the longhorns – gideon isn’t great with speed, but he’s smart
fozzy won’t push the pile
the o-line is capable of laying elephant sized dung piles on the field
colt can be great, or he can try to be perfect and hold onto the ball too long
kirkendoll does not always put forth the best effort
john chiles hasn’t been a great wr
and the list can go on
but that’s my team, and i’m sticking with them no matter what
however, what’s been glaringly missing is that same sense of introspection from the bama fans
so yeah no, i don’t want to read it, i’m not gaining a single thing from it, and it hasn’t given me any insight on your team
We are solid all over
however there are a few weaknesses I have seen throughout the year. We start out slow. We seem to be vulnerable in the first quarter, then begin to wear a team out as the game goes on. We tend to be overly aggressive on D at times giving up big plays on reverses, play action passes, mis-direction type plays (see the first quarter of the Auburn game). Our offense and playcalling have been very predictable for much of the year (minus the Florida game). Granted, we haven’t needed to mix up the offense much because we have been able to hammer it down our opponents throats most of the time, plus we were breaking in a new qb. I have seen Texas play only twice this year (OU and Nebraska) and honestly, I think UT’s D is by far the best we will have faced all year. I don’t believe we will be able to simply run up the middle and wear Texas down just like I don’t think that would have worked against Florida. We need to mix it up in this game even more than we did vs. Florida.
by RollTideinMich on Dec 25, 2009 4:54 PM CST up reply actions
though perhaps his
original comment wasn’t PC…if “learned hand” would have called me out on my grammar..i would have said worse..and i would have also told him to “STFU”..correcting ones grammar is the lowest form of class..we are on the internet folks…no one here is perfect…
That said..i just think most Bama fans are a little shocked to hear someone say that he’s more afraid of our offense than defense..
that said..that could be more of a compliment to our O than a diss on our D..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Correcting grammar is the lowest form of class?
I completely disagree. And besides, it’s not like 229 actually added any sort of critical analysis or thoughtful contribution to the discussion. He was just picking fights.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:27 AM CST up reply actions
sorry
i should have added a " lowest form of class ON THE INTERNET"…
No he didn’t say anything of meaningful commentary….i have never seen him on RBR, so i don’t know what he/she is usually like..
I just find those people who correct grammar highly annoying and id like to punch them in the mouth every time they do..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
I always thought the internet-tough-guy routine was far, far worse
Followed closely by the I-make-so-much-money routine.
There are many that are far worse, and honestly, I actually find exceptionally bad grammar highly annoying and punch-worthy as well.
by burntorangehorn on Dec 24, 2009 9:35 AM CST up reply actions
Eye right reely gud...
… I make a TON of money, and I’ll beat the crap out of anyone who looks at me cross-eyed. And I’m getting really tired of people talking about my grammar. Leave her alone, she’s old.
Merry Christmas, all!
41-38 !!
Well, I do agree
229 was out of line there, much more so than anyone correcting someone’s grammar.
I get annoyed by bad grammar sometimes too, but no one is perfect. I just think correcting someone’s grammar is a distraction from the real argument going on. It’s easier to correct someone’s grammar than to actually debate their argument.
Of course, he didn’t seem to have any meaningful argument in the first place, so it all works out.
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 11:06 AM CST up reply actions
the dude corrected him
on the correct usage of ’then" and ’than"…really?…it aint licke hs poste loked sumthen licke thiss….
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Had 229 said anything of substance…at all…then this would be a different conversation. However, as 229 only posted to troll, his grammar was fair game. Really, Bammer, you’ve been a great addition to the discourse on this board. Please don’t lessen your credibility by defending that guy.
oh im not denying he's a troll
or defending his actions…i just thought it strange that what he said (and in terms of trolling it was pretty weak) he’d get such a reaction..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
All this talk and my ears weren't even burning
As you may have noticed, there’s a method to our madness over here. TheElusiveShadow explained it as eloquently as I could below.
If someone comes here to talk about football in an intelligent manner, then we’ll either let grammatical gaffs slide or mention something in passing when errors are persistent or make the post difficult to understand. However, when someone comes with nothing worth contributing whatsoever it’s an easy way to dismiss them as unworthy of our time.
The distinction may still leave you wanting to punch me in the mouth, but I fail to care.
proud to swim home
by learned hand on Dec 26, 2009 5:17 PM CST up reply actions
over at RBR...
those who correct grammar are quickly ridiculed…lets just chalk it up to a case of not understanding the method to yalls madness and leave it at that..
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Why don't you work on your grammar skills?
Then none of us will have to get a black eye…..ON THE INTERNET of course!
by SneezyBeltran on Dec 24, 2009 2:54 PM CST up reply actions
Making little jokes about grammar and spelling is common here
We particularly like to do it when boneheads talk down from their imaginary high horse with pitiful contributions, like CrimsonTide229, because we know it irks them. If you don’t act like him and post intelligently, than… then nobody will mention typos here and there.
by TheElusiveShadow on Dec 24, 2009 9:43 AM CST up reply actions
Personally
I like it when there is “self policing” on the internet whether for grammar or abusive comments. We need more of it not less. The idea that because someone can type on the computer they are entitled to put all kind of abusive drivel out in public is bogus in my book. But the SBNation sites seem to be a cut above a lot of other ones so thats a good start.
While correcting grammar can be abused as an obnoxious red herring...
an overreaction against it is far more dangerous, and frankly, often more revealing. There are few logical reasons why one would ever argue in favor of lowering our standards, regardless of the arena.
To proclaim that a strict adherence to grammar and syntax (which, by the way, aids in the evasion of unnecessary disagreement due to semantic misunderstandings) is elitist and superfluous is both illogical and lazy.
by BrooklynHorn on Dec 24, 2009 1:35 PM CST up reply actions
I have no problem having my grammar corrected
I just wouldn’t appreciate someone using my grammar mistake to paint me as an idiot.
by billycthulhu on Dec 25, 2009 1:05 AM CST up reply actions
Our allegiance are for 2 teams...
WAR DAMN EAGLE!
"We don't freestyle Texas Fight, big boy." - Coach Brown
abc reply
ABC, I am not certain to what you are referring. Was there a specific excuse you had in mind? I will be the first to agree that there are no perfect football teams. I realize that this is a Texas board, and I expect the Longhorn fans to support their team, but to call ONLY Bama fans as elitist. If you are trying to objective, there are plenty of Longhorn elitists on the board. After reading about half of these posts, Bama does not stand a chance. Our qb can’t pass, our receivers can’t catch, our O-line can’t block, our D-line can’t tackle, our D-backs are slow, and our coach is stupid. That seems to the the Longhorn mantra when it comes to Bama.
Texas and Alabama are two ELITE teams with ELITE players and coaches. I expect a bloodfest on January 7. Btw, Merry Christmas
I think it did.
There are just a lot of comments under that one.
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 10:56 AM CST up reply actions
wow
this just got lame.
see you in pasadena!
by nyclonghorngal on Dec 24, 2009 10:07 AM CST reply actions
I hope Coach Boom Looks at the Auburn and Tenneessee games
less than impressive. I saw both and the Alabama offense was inconsistent. Both teams ended at 7-5 so it’s not like they are more than mediocre this season.
Florida shot it self in the foot against Alabama as much as Alabama beat them down. In the first quarter both teams had only 2 possessions. Florida had 9 possessions all game, Alabama had the ball just under 40 minutes. Florida only scored on 3 possessions. They had 23 plays in the first half and 26 in the second half.
When a team can’t stop Alabama’s long drives Alabama looks impressive. Most of they games against tough teams that had good defenses they had much shorter drives or they only got into field goal range because the defense had a much smaller field to protect and the Alabama offense got stopped.
The important thing to know about the Alabama offense is you only have to worry about the 15 yards out for the LOS. All they’re plays occur in this area, the longer gains only happen when the defense can’t tackle.
I definitely hope the coach looks at those games
and expects Alabama to play like they did against Tennessee and Auburn.
I guarantee Saban et. al. will not be preparing as though Texas will play like they did against Nebraska.
by billycthulhu on Dec 24, 2009 12:37 PM CST up reply actions
I’m sure this has been said before but let me restate it. If there were any two games that Alabama was going to struggle in if you look at the schedule, it was going to be Tennessee and Auburn. When Alabama beat Tennessee they became the first team since the 2002 Alabama to go through 5 straight SEC games without a bye without losing. Auburn also had 13 days to prepare for Alabama and they have THE most complex offense to prepare for, plus it is just human nature to look ahead to Florida which in some ways Alabama did. I’m not saying different teams can’t learn how to beat Alabama through those games, I’m just saying they are not the blueprint.
Just excuses why a #1 team just barely beats less talented teams.
Auburn shut down the Alabama ground game, only 73 yards.
Alabama is not some unbeatable juggernaut, they have played poorly and almost lost. They have flaws and make significant mistakes.
No different for Texas, neither team has played flawless and even a less talented team can almost beat both teams.
As a Texas fan I want to see an Alabama defense that is not quite as effective as NU and a Texas defense much better than Florida.
I would guess a Alabama fans want to see just the opposite.
Texas has scored 50% more TD’s this season than Alabama and Alabama has struggled to score in the red zone. I hope that has helps decides the outcome.
I just can't wait
to get there and lets get this battle started!!! The last Rosebowl was a bit intimidating with all the USC press telling us “how UT will NEVER be able to beat the BEST TEAM IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL, EVER”. And we all know how THAT game turned out.
I’m just saying, everything seems to be to repeat of 2005.
Heisman issue, not that I am saying that Ingram should have not won.
Personally, Ndamukong, should have won.
But, lets just get this party started!!!
"Football is an incredible game. Sometimes it's so incredible, it's unbelievable."
Tom Landry
I am a Bama fan but I agree
Ingram is a great running back but I think you could plug many other backs including our own freshman Richardson into that offense behind that offensive line and he would put up big numbers. Heisman is bogus anyway although I’m glad Bama finally has one. Its a team game and these two teams are clearly the best. Should be a great game. I have a lot of respect for Texas and their tradition.
by RollTideinMich on Dec 25, 2009 4:40 PM CST up reply actions
JJones is special and he should be healthy
Not sure who PB thinks can cover JJones one on one. I don’t think we have anyone that can do it, especially since he should be healthy. Huge mistake for Texas to take him lightly.
“•I think Julio Jones can be dealt with one-on-one and that the bigger threat is getting mismatched in coverage of either Peek or Maze — both are a problem for linebackers.”
My opinion is we better be watching him like a hawk.
Should clarify what I mean
I don’t mean he’s useless or anything of the sort. He’s a hell of a target, and even smothered is a viable threat to make a reception and, most frighteningly, break tackles. What I mean, though, is that I don’t see him with top-end breakaway speed that our DBs can’t turn and run with. Julio Jones must be accounted for. I’m just not sure it’s deep balls about which we have to worry.
You ain't hurt.
exactly
he’s not known for his blazing speed. What makes him dangerous is that he runs damn near perfect routes…gets great position on the DB and if he makes the catch, is nearly impossible to bring down with one player…
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
Spin Doctor
Spin spin spin, Bean. That’s about all you’re good at. Trying to spin a team that’s going to get absolutely dominated.
your name is fitting.
"The goal is to be a champion," Saban said. "I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here. That’s what we want to do."- Nick Saban
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