Bama in the News

November 1 - 7, 2008

• Bama in the NBA Players:
Antonio McDyess was traded to the Nuggets

• Monday practice notes: Cody back to work • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama NG still listed as 'day-to-day' 

• ESPNU 150 WR will visit Alabama • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Bastrop (La.) High School star Rueben Randle has laid low with his recruitment for most of his senior season, but it looks like things are starting to pick up for the No. 1 wide receiver in the nation. 

• Saban’s heart now with Crimson Tide but LSU fans still seething • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban has moved on. The LSU fan base? Not so much.

• Cody back to work • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama noseguard Terrence Cody has been working for two weeks in an effort to rehabilitate a knee sprain in time to play against LSU Saturday.

• State’s No. 1 prospect Branden Smith no longer considering Tennessee • AJC
Booker T. Washington cornerback Branden Smith told the AJC on Monday night that he is no longer considering Tennessee.

• SEC West Players to Watch • College Football News
Players on the move or with something to prove in week eleven in the SEC West 

• Ian R. Rapoport: Cody in a full-contact jersey, and a little on that whole No. 1 thing... • al.com
First of all, Alabama nose tackle Terrence Cody was in a crimson, full-contact jersey for practice today, at least during the portion media is allowed to view. He was wearing a brace on his right knee, which had a sprained MCL that kept him out of two games, and sleeves on both knees.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/3 - Andre Smith

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/3 - Glen Coffee

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/3 - Rashad Johnson

• UA Players Talk About LSU game • RollTide.com
Wison, Smith, Johnson and Jackson met the media on Monday previewing the LSU game 

• Men's Cross Country Has Six Earn All-SEC Accolades • RollTide.com
The SEC Cross Country Championships were run Monday morning on the Mississippi State Cross Country Course in Starkville, Miss. The Alabama men's team competed on the 8,000 meter course in the meet ... 

• Freshmen Cross Country Duo Earn All-SEC Accolades • RollTide.com
The SEC Cross Country Championships were run Monday morning on the Mississippi State Cross Country Course in Starkville, Miss. The Alabama women's team competed on the 6,000 meter course in the mee...

• Women's Cross Country Has Best Finish at SEC Championships Since 2000 • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's cross country team competed at the SEC Championships today in Starkville, Miss. at the Mississippi State Cross Country Course. The squad placed seventh in team scoring and it is... 

• Coach Nick Saban Press Conference Transcript • RollTide.com
Alabama head football coach Nick Saban met with the media on Monday to preview Saturday's game with LSU.

• SEC CHAMPIONS: Alabama Wins SEC Men's Cross Country Title • RollTide.com
The No. 5 ranked Alabama men's cross country team won the 2008 Southeastern Conference Cross Country Championship Monday morning.

• No. 1 Ranked Alabama Meets LSU in Baton Rouge • RollTide.com
The University of Alabama football team travels to Baton Rouge Saturday for a SEC West showdown with the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium. The game is slated to kickoff at 2:30 p.m. (CDT) and will be te...

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
In the Trenches: Homecoming
Cornelius Bennett, Hank Jr., bonfire and more....

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/3 - Nick Saban part 1

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/3 - Nick Saban part 2

• Ian R. Rapoport: Saban: "Anything the Sabans have ever done has not been to hurt anyone at LSU." • al.com
So much for this week not being about Alabama coach Nick Saban... 

• Gentry Estes: Mondays with Saban: "My heart is with this team" • al.com
Alabama coach Nick Saban stepped to the podium and with a sheepish grin looked at all the media from this state, Louisiana and elsewhere packed into the room ...

• Gentry Estes: Monday reading: Saban brings the top-ranked team to tangle with "family" • al.com
*** In case you missed it, big news out of Knoxville this morning about a certain long-time coach. Tennessee has called a press conference for 4 p.m. Central.

• Ben Culpepper: Nick Saban 11/3/08 Press Conference • al.com
Nick Saban discusses his first trip to Baton Rouge as the Alabama head coach, the talented LSU athletes they will be playing against, the respect he has for the departing Phillip Fulmer and being viewed as a "villain" by the LSU fans. 

• SEC Men's Basketball Preseason Awards Announced • SEC Sports
SEC Men's Basketball Preseason Awards Announced

• SEC Football TV Schedule for November 15th • SEC Sports
SEC Football TV Schedule for November 15th

• Alabama-LSU pregame notes • AlabamaFB
ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE (9-0) vs. LSU TIGERS (6-2)

• Cody returning to practice • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
It appears that Terrence Cody's return is right on target. After the Tide's mammoth nose tackle went down with a strained MCL in the Ole Miss game on October 18, the prognosis was that he'd be ready to return for the Alabama-LSU game this coming Saturday.

• Saban: "My heart's with this team" • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
"This game is not about me," Saban reiterated Monday to a packed media room at the Alabama football complex. "We enjoyed our time there (in Baton Rouge). It was very special, but my heart's with this (Alabama) team." 

• BamaMag.com Homecoming Gallery • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
BamaMag.com captured the big win over Arkansas State in this photo gallery presentation.

• Competition heating up for Norwood • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
When the University of Alabama began recruiting D'Iberville wide receiver Kevin Norwood, the 6-foot-3, 190-pound athlete was still a diamond in the rough. With new schools now contacting the Rivals250 star on a daily basis, it is safe to say that the secret is out.

• VIDEO: Saban's Monday news conference • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama head coach Nick Saban conducted his weekly news conference Monday, taking time to wrap up the Arkansas State win before looking ahead to Saturday's game at LSU. 

• Saban: Cody still 'day-to-day' • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama nose guard Terrence Cody will begin the process of returning to practice on Monday after two weeks sidelined with a knee injury, coach Nick Saban said.

• VIDEO — NIck Saban's Monday press conference • Crimson Confidential
Alabama coach Nick Saban discusses the upcoming game with LSU 

• 'It's Tiger Week!' for top-ranked Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama can clinch SEC West with win against LSU 

• Smith now rooting for Tide after weekend visit to Tuscaloosa (video highlights included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Florida QB is member of ESPNU 150

• Tigers bracing for Saban's return • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Tide is first No. 1 to play at LSU since 1997 

• Ingram earns SEC honors • Crimson Confidential
RB named freshman of week 

• Chris's Blog - Monday November 3rd • Chris Stewart Sports
8:05 a.m. CST - Football and Hoops on a Monday...

• Mark Schlabach: On The Mark: How the BCS bowl games will shake out • ESPN
Another No. 1-ranked team fell Saturday. 

• SEC Football Players of the Week Announced • SEC Sports
SEC Football Players of the Week Announced

• Ingram named SEC Freshman of the Week • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | University of Alabama running back Mark Ingram was named Southesatern Conference Freshman of the Week on Monday for his performance in last Saturday's victory over Arkansas State.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Sabanated? UT's Fulmer out... and links! • al.com
You've heard of Croomed, right? The phrase denoting the phenomenon of Mississippi State coach Sylvester Croom beatinig you, thereby putting the finishing touches on your career. (See Zook, Ron; Shula, Mike.)

• Gentry Estes: Report: Vols' Fulmer to step down later today • al.com
According this breaking news by ESPN.com's Chris Low, long-time head coach Phillip Fulmer is out at Tennessee. 

• Doug Segrest: Week 10 SEC grades • al.com
These are our weekly grades, based on expectations, performance and the square root of the national deficit.

• Ingram Named SEC Freshman Of Week • 'BamaMag
Each week the Southeastern Conference selects top performers in several categories for Player of the Week citations. It’s hard for an Alabama to get an award in an apparent romp over a team from a mid-level conference, but the Crimson Tide picked one up this week.

• Grading the Tide: UA 35, Arkansas State 0 • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Antoine Caldwell and Glen Coffee had an easy time dispatching Arkansas State, as did the UA defense, which posted its first shutout.

•  Bama in the NFL - Week 9 Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did this week 

• Crimson Tide No. 1 in Both the AP and USA Today Coaches Poll • RollTide.com
Alabama is No. 1 in the AP poll for the first time since beating Miami in the 1993 Sugar Bowl

• Tide ranks no. 1 • Tuscaloosa News
First time in regular season since 1980 

• Crimson Tide first and 10 • Tuscaloosa News
So what do you get a coach for a birthday gift?

• Bama in the top spot • Tuscaloosa News
NEW YORK | No scoreboard watching necessary for Texas Tech.

• Former UA player applauds leadership • Tuscaloosa News
BIRMINGHAM | If there’s one thing Bart Starr knows, and believes in, it’s leadership.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Mark Ingram's return, Miles on hugging... and other stuff! • al.com
So, it's LSU week. If this week is anything like today, it might be a busy, busy, busy, busy. And mildly interesting...

• Ray Melick: Alabama, Texas Tech would be nice matchup - if it can hold up • The Birmingham News
For the past month, college football fans and analysts alike have gone back and forth, trying to decide which conference is better - the Southeastern or the Big 12. 

• Nick Saban returns • The Birmingham News
Nick Saban returns to LSU this week with Alabama atop the Bowl Championship Series standings. 

• Alabama vs. LSU is only partially about Saban • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA -- Nick Saban is only partially correct. 

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Ingram back on his A-game: 

• TIDE ROLLS INTO TOP SPOT • The Birmingham News
Nick Saban returns to LSU this week with Alabama atop the Bowl Championship Series standings.

• Tommy Hicks: Scenario too good to be true • Press-Register
You knew Nick Saban's first trip back to Baton Rouge as Alabama's head coach — his first return since leaving as LSU's head coach for the Miami Dolphins — was going to be an off-the-charts experience. 

• Nick Saban, No. 1 Tide in the spotlight • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Those pesky "external factors" are multiplying for Nick Saban as his surprising football team continues to win games.

• Saban 'family reunion' looms • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Nick Saban didn't particularly enjoy his first meeting with LSU as a member of Alabama's program, comparing it to "playing against somebody who's in your family."

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Monday, November 03, 2008
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all comments can be published. 

• Paul Gattis: Relax, enjoy: Tide's No. 1 • The Huntsville Times
The news is everywhere.
All over the newspaper, all over the Internet, all over the radio, all over the TV. 

• Bama claims top poll position as it prepares for LSU • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - Those pesky "external factors" are multiplying for Nick Saban as his surprising football team continues to win games. 

• Saban: Don't make it personal • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - Nick Saban didn't particularly enjoy his first meeting with LSU as a member of Alabama's program, comparing it to "playing against somebody who's in your family." 

• Torrance shining for Tide • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - With a new role and a new season, Alabama junior guard Mikhail Torrance can't wait to get started.

• Jess Nicholas: LSU preview: Tigers in unaccustomed spoiler role • TideFans.com
Prior to Nick Saban’s arrival at LSU at the turn of the century, many Alabama fans looked at LSU the way many people view a traveling circus: The sideshows were often more entertaining than the main event.

• Jess Nicholas: SEC preview and predictions – Week 11 • TideFans.com
The Predictions Dept.’s “Upset Special” is apparently appropriately named, because it upsets the Dept.’s won-loss record every week. This time, Tulsa didn’t follow through with business against Arkansas. For next week, the upset special very well could be LSU-Alabama.

• 2008 Bowl Championship Series Standings • SEC Sports
2008 Bowl Championship Series Standings 

• Tide No. 1 after Saturday’s win • Crimson White
For the first time ever, Alabama sits atop the BCS Standings.

• Johnson leads defense in first shutout • Crimson White
There are a lot of ways to win a football game. Alabama notched its ninth victory of the season with yet another one.

• Torrance leads Crimson past White • Crimson White
Led by an all-around performance by junior guard Mikhail Torrance, the Crimson team blew out the White team 102-77 in Alabama’s annual Crimson and White scrimmage at Coleman Coliseum Sunday.

• Tide climbs to No. 1 ranking • Montgomery Advertiser
A postage stamp cost 18 cents and President Jimmy Carter had just approved a measure raising the minimum wage to $3.35 an hour at the first of the year.

• Photos • Montgomery Advertiser
UA defeats Arkansas St.

• BCS STANDINGS • Montgomery Advertiser
BCS STANDINGS

• Top-ranked Bama bound not to look ahead • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- After three consecutive games of experienc­ing second-half letdowns, the top-ranked Crimson Tide is fi­nally putting 60 minutes worth of effort into a game.

• LSU nation fired up over Saban's return • Montgomery Advertiser
BATON ROUGE -- "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned," wrote 18th century playwright William Congreve in "The Mourning Bride."

• It’s ‘Tiger Week’ for Tide • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Every Monday, when Alabama goes out to the practice field to stretch, starting center Antoine Caldwell delivers a speech. He normally begins, “It’s (insert Saturday’s opponent here) week.” 

• Bama rises to top in polls • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — The last time Alabama went to Baton Rouge, La., as the No. 1 team in the nation was in 1979.

• Stallings: UA deserves No. 1 ranking • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Winning at Tennessee made former Alabama coach Gene Stallings believe his 1992 team had the makings of the No. 1 team in the country.

• Alabama rises to No. 1 in rankings • Dothan Eagle
NEW YORK — Next up at No. 1, Alabama. 

• 5 Thoughts - The Mother Of All Debates • College Football News
This could be fun. What will happen if Derrick Williams and Penn State go unbeaten and the Big 12 and SEC champions have one loss? Who'll play for the national title? This, along with the Texas - Texas Tech game and praise for TCU in the Latest 5 Thoughts. 

• Hard work paying off for DL commit • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Few Tide commitments have as much potential as defensive lineman Quinton Dial. The standout from Clay-Chalkville HS in Pinson is having a huge senior season. 

• 'It's Tiger Week!' for top-ranked Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's 24-hour rule didn't last even an hour this week, because just after the Crimson Tide had put the finishing touches on a 35-0 homecoming victory over Arkansas State on Saturday, the players thoughts began to drift ahead.

• Smith now rooting for Tide after weekend visit to Tuscaloosa (video highlights included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama may not have picked up a new commitment this past weekend, but it did pick up a new fan. 

• Davis Eager to Play in Home State • RollTide.com
Luther Davis understands the importance of this Saturday's game between top-ranked Alabama and LSU.

• Tuesday Tide Trivia • RollTide.com
Test your Crimson Tide knowledge with this week's edition of Tuesday Tide Trivia on RollTide.com.

• Soccer Faces No. 7 Florida in First Round • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team (9-8-2, 4-6-1 SEC) will head to Orange Beach, Ala. for the Southeastern Conference Tournament for the first time since 2004. The Crimson Tide enters the bracket as the No. 8... 

• Ian R. Rapoport: What happened when Luther Davis decommitted from LSU? • al.com
The complicated career of Luther Davis has been well-documented. We know that the defensive tackle from West Monroe, La., originally committed to LSU, eventually chose Alabama, was suspended in the spring, and has suffered for his choices.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama players getting national love... • al.com
A couple quick things before I get back to writing... 

• Gentry Estes: Tide DE Luther Davis ready for return to Louisiana • al.com
About two weeks ago, I wrote this story on Alabama defensive end Luther Davis, the former blue-chip recruit from West Monroe, La., who decommitted from LSU, signed with Alabama soon after Nick Saban arrived, left the team for a short time in the spring and then returned to claim a contributing role this fall.

• Ken Booth: Watch the Crimson Tide celebrate their road to No. 1 in high-definition photos • al.com
We've built a special high-resolution gallery of photos from The Birmingham News of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team celebrating each of their wins this season leading up to their No. 1 ranking in the polls. To see the "high-def" version of each photo, simply click on an image.

• Ben Culpepper: Alabama vs Arkansas State Report Card Results • al.com
The newly ranked No. 1 team in the country's defense posted a 35-0 shutout of Arkansas State on a beautiful homecoming day. In return for the defensive dominance, the fans rewarded the defensive units with the highest grades on the team.

• Expert Picks • CBS Sportsline
Editor's Note: The CBSSports.com Expert Picks will feature a new look this year with extra analysis on two-to-three feature games each week. For Week 11, our Games of the Week are No. 11 TCU at No. 10 Utah, No. 1 Alabama at No. 15 LSU and No. 8 Oklahoma State at No. 2 Texas Tech. Post your thoughts on the message board and your pick might be featured along side our experts! 

• The Harmon Forecast • CBS Sportsline
In its 52nd year, The Harmon Forecast predicts probable scores of college football games each week. The Harmon Forecast is powered by Accuscore . 

• Practice Report: 11/4/08 • Bama Sports Report
The Tide was in full pads today for day two of LSU practice. Intensity and focus are two things that Nick Saban always asks, and this week will require even more of it. Not only does Alabama have to deal with the distraction of being ranked #1 heading into a game for the first time 

• Bowman making the most of his opportunities • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Michael Bowman hasn't had the senior season he hoped for. But the 6-5, 212-pound wide receiver has made the most of his opportunities. 

• Tuesday practice report • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Glen Coffee and the rest of the Alabama football team continued preparations for LSU Tuesday with a full-pad practice. Check the Ultimate Ticket for BamaOnLine.com's Tuesday practice report.

• Crimson Tide's Davis has mixed emotions about trip home to Louisiana • Crimson Confidential
Normally, getting a chance to play in your home state against the team you grew up watching would be a happy occasion. But for Alabama defensive end Luther Davis, that's not necessarily the case.

• Tuesday practice notes: Cody still going strong • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Top-ranked Alabama (9-0, 5-0 SEC) continued work Tuesday for Saturday's game with LSU (6-2, 3-2), practicing in full gear at the outdoor facility. Among the notables:

• No. 1 ranking sways Norwood further toward Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Mississippi WR impressed with Alabama's success 

• Gentry Estes: Candidates weigh in on the sports issues • al.com
With the polls still open (Yep, I'm sporting my "I Voted" sticker as I type) and in the spirit of election day, I wanted to pass along this interesting article from SI.com.

• Rogers Garners Second Team All-SEC Soccer Accolades • RollTide.com
Alabama sophomore forward Brooke Rogers was named to the All-SEC Second Team as announced by the conference office today. The honor marks a career first for the Cincinnati, Ohio native.

• Alabama Football: Offensive Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama senior quarterback John Parker Wilson had led the Tide to a 9-0 record this season, including a 4-0 mark away from Tuscaloosa. The Hoover, Ala. native has completed 69.0 percent of his pass...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama players, rockin' the vote... • al.com
Anybody out there voting today? I haven't yet, but the Banktress and I will go later. Clearly, a monster topic for the day: Barack Obama or John McCain? 

• Gentry Estes: Tuesday reading: Nick Saban not concerned for safety at LSU • al.com
Alabama coach Nick Saban isn't terribly worried about his own security at Tiger Stadium on Saturday, even if folks at LSU are taking extra steps with the former Tigers coach headed back to town ...

• 2008 SEC Football - Week 11 Game Previews • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football - Week 11 Game Previews

• 2008 SEC Women's Soccer Awards Announced • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Women's Soccer Awards Announced

• Florida QB to graduate early • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Over the weekend, quarterback Eugene 'Geno' Smith of Miramar, Florida made an official visit to Alabama. The 6-3, 190-pound Smith plans to graduate from high school next month and he'll enroll in college for the spring semester. 

• PHOTO GALLERY: McCarron Army Bowl Announcement • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Crimson Tide commit AJ McCarron became the sixth player from the state of Alabama named to the U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Monday.

• The Zoom Lens: Mark Ingram • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
BOL members chose Mark Ingram as the subject of this week's edition of The Zoom Lens, an interactive feature allowing subscribers to choose the subject of a game analysis. 

• LSU's Lee searching for answers • Tuscaloosa News
BATON ROUGE, La. | Even though Nick Saban is returning to town this weekend, and bringing his No. 1 University of Alabama football team with him, LSU quarterback Jarrett Lee was barely asked about either Monday afternoon at the McClendon Practice Facility.

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
The Cecil Hurt Show 11/3/08

• Andrew Bone: Defensive players high on Alabama • Tuscaloosa News
We take a look this week at the defensive targets remaining on the recruiting board in this Part ll series.

• Cecil Hurt: Saban's return overshadows ranking • Tuscaloosa News
Instead of handicapping today's presidential election, the sudden explosion of college football news made it worthwhile to try and predict which issue would dominate Nick Saban's Monday press conference at the University of Alabama.

• He's back • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Terrence Cody, all 6-foot-5 and 365 pounds of him, was back at practice Monday for the University of Alabama.

• Bama in the NFL - Week 9 Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did this week 

• Bama in the NBA - November 3rd Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did.

• Women's Golf Wins Two Matches to Head to Finals • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's golf team played its way into the finals of the 2008 Hooters Collegiate Match Play Championship by earning two victories Monday at the Ginn Reunion Golf Course. The Crimson Tide...

• Mark Ingram Named SEC Freshman of the Week • RollTide.com
The Crimson Tide practiced for 90 minutes in helmets and shorts Monday afternoon as preparation began for Saturday's SEC showdown with LSU at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge.

• Recruiting Chat Transcript Part lll • Tuscaloosa News
Recruiting Chat Transcript Part lll (10-29-08)

• Ian R. Rapoport:  So, there is this whole SEC title game spot available... • al.com
So, Alabama is No. 1 in the country, right? We knew that. But did you also know that a win for the Crimson Tide at LSU clinches its first appearance in the SEC title game, repping the West, since 1999.

• Gentry Estes: Jarrett Lee still leads LSU's unsettled QB rotation • al.com
Alabama true freshman quarterback Star Jackson arrived at practice today wearing a No. 9 jersey. 

• Video: LSU football coach Les Miles' weekly press conference • al.com
LSU football coach Les Miles discusses this week's match up with the Crimson Tide.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Like Tommy Bowden, Phillip Fulmer just got Nicked • The Birmingham News
What do Tommy Bowden and Phillip Fulmer have in common? 

• Nick Saban can't help but be emotional on return to Baton Rouge • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - There is one worry that haunts Alabama coach Nick Saban about his return to Tiger Stadium.

• Expect Gators to derail Tide • The Birmingham News
Georgia should have seen a loss coming. Alabama, you should, too. 

• Saban: 'It's not about me' • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA ? All the while insisting "it's not about me," Alabama coach Nick Saban nonetheless fielded about a half-dozen questions Monday about visiting his old school LSU on Saturday afternoon.

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• University of Alabama football team more mature and ready to play on the road at LSU • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - The next step is a tough one. 

• Mark McCarter: Blocking the hype • The Huntsville Times
Bama ignores the tempest brewing in the bayou 

• Maturing Tide shows dominance on road • The Huntsville Times
Bama's best performances this season have come in toughest environments

• Tide not too high on top ranking • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- The cheers could be heard a mile away in downtown Tuscaloosa. 

• College football notebook • Montgomery Advertiser
Tide's Cody practices, status 'day to day' for LSU game
TUSCALOOSA -- Alabama nose tackle Terrence Cody returned to practice Monday, wearing a crimson jersey along with his other defensive teammates and showing little effect from a knee injury suffered two weeks ago.

• Tide, Saban ready for harsh hello from LSU • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban is not a villain. He wants the LSU fans who cheered him for five years to know this.

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama nose tackle Terrence Cody practiced in a crimson jersey Monday rather than a black non-contact one for the first time since straining his right knee ligament against Ole Miss on Oct. 18. 

• Tide downplays distractions • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — If Nick Saban could bottle all the “external factors” — or “distractions” — surrounding Alabama’s visit to LSU this Saturday, he’d label it with a skull and crossbones.

• Cavalcade of Whimsy - 2008 Best/Worst Coaches • College Football News
Who has done the best coaching job so far this year? Who has done the worst? What's the job status of the coaches at all 119 schools? All this and the star coach who isn't on a hot seat, but will be soon, in the latest Cavalcade of Whimsy. 

• Week 10: Homecoming • Bama Sports Report
The November monkey is off of Bama’s back. Yes, the Tide was a heavy favorite against Arkansas State, so a win was expected. But expected wins don’t always turn into real wins. It was a bit of luck that the game fell on the first day of November, so that the Tide players got to

• Bama Men’s Cross Country Track Wins SEC Title • Bama Sports Report
It’s a big story any time that a Crimson Tide team wins the SEC in anything. But in this particular case it is an even bigger story…

• Two early offers for junior DB • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Tall, fast, playmaker. Those are attributes that help make a defensive back successful. And they are attributes that helped one junior DB in Alabama earn two big early offers. 

• Eugene Smith Visits Alabama • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Eugene Smith, Scout.com four-star quarterback from Miramar, (Fla.), took an official visit to the University of Alabama for the Homecoming weekend. Smith’s interest in the Tide has grown during the season as he talked about the trip to Tuscaloosa. 

• McCarron headed to San Antonio • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Yet again another Alabama Crimson Tide commitment for the 2009 class will be traveling to San Antonio to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. AJ McCarron became the first quarterback picked to play for the West squad in the all star game on January 3 in the Alamo Dome.

• Trent traveling to Baton Rouge to watch the Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Tide five-star commit Trent Richardson keeps rolling right along with an exceptional senior campaign, and this weekend, the 5-foot-10, 220-pound athlete plans on seeing two exceptional football teams in action as he travels to Baton Rouge to see the Tide take on LSU.

• PHOTO GALLERY: Nico Johnson • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Current Tide commit Nico Johnson is considered one of the top linebackers in the nation.

• Notebook: Approaching the Bayou • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Nick Saban returns to Baton Rouge, La., this weekend against LSU, but will roam the visiting sideline for the first time. The UA coach commented Monday on his highly-anticipated return. 

• Plenty on line as Tide heads to Baton Rouge • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Rashad Johnson admits it freely — for a short while on Saturday night, he was one of the bigger Texas Tech fans in America.

• No. 1 ranking sways Norwood further toward Tide • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Perhaps nowhere is Alabama’s recent rise to the No. 1 national ranking more relevant than on the recruiting trail. Kevin Norwood is a prime example. 

• Notebook: Caldwell ill over 2007 LSU outcome • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Senior center back after missing last year's game 

• Men's Basketball Set to Open Exhibition Slate • RollTide.com
The Alabama men's basketball team will open its exhibition slate on Thursday, November 6, against the Faulkner Eagles. 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/5 - Practice

• ScoutTV: Jonathan Stewart • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Stewart shows why he is considered by many to be the top inside linebacker in Louisiana for 2009.

• Sentimore and Crawford • 'BamaMag
Catching up with a pair of official visitors to Arkansas

• Wednesday practice report • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Tyler Love has been withheld from contact this week, but UA will travel to Baton Rouge in relative good health Saturday. Check the Ultimate Ticket for BamaOnLine.com's daily practice report. 

• Wednesday practice notes: Top-ranked Tide continues preparation for LSU • Crimson Confidential
Top-ranked Alabama (9-0 overall, 5-0 SEC) continued its preparations for defending national champion and SEC Western Division rival LSU (6-2, 3-2) Wednesday afternoon, working out in full pads at the outdoor practice facility. 

• Women's Tennis Hosts SEC Fall Coaches Classic • RollTide.com
The women's tennis team is set to host the annual SEC Fall Coaches Classic. The 12-team tournament will begin Thursday, Nov. 6 at 4:00 p.m. (CST) and conclude Sunday, Nov. 9.

• Ian R. Rapoport: What will be John Parker Wilson's legacy?... and links! • al.com
For today's article in The Birmingham News, I discussed an issue that's been swirling around in my head all season. And it's one that keeps changing, thereby preventing me from coming up with an answer.

• The Weekly Spread ‘Em • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
Headed to the Beau tomorrow and then on to Baton Rouge, so I have to do this early… 

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Defensive Notebook • RollTide.com
Alabama senior safety Rashad Johnson had one of his better games last week against Arkansas State, tying his career-high with 13 tackles and scoring on a 32-yard interception return. The Sulligent,...

• Women's Basketball Opens with Crimson and White Matchup • RollTide.com
The women's basketball team hits the court for the first time this season when it tips off in the Crimson and White game Wednesday, November 5 at 6:00 p.m. in Coleman Coliseum.

• Les Miles responds on Luther Davis recruitment • Tuscaloosa News
LSU head football coach Les Miles commented Wednesday on statements made by Alabama defensive lineman Luther Davis.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Les Miles discusses Saban's name and an old recruiting battle... • al.com
A few quick things, before I get back to the Southeastern Conference teleconference... LSU coach Les Miles was first, and given the matchup this week, he got some interesting responses.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Will this be like 2005... and other stuff! • al.com
Usually, I post my notes for today's paper the day I write them. But last night was kinda busy, ya know? What, with electing a new president and all. And yes guys, I know what happened the last time a non-incumbent Democrat won the White House.

• Gentry Estes: View from the other side: LSU • al.com
As you may have heard, it's another big game week at Alabama. 

• Gentry Estes: All signs point to (Bednarik Award semifinalist) Terrence Cody playing at LSU • al.com
Two practices into his return from injury for Alabama's football team, big nose tackle Terrence Cody appears well on track to play Saturday at LSU.

• 2008 SEC Soccer Tournament - Day One • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Soccer Tournament - Day One 

• 2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference

• Russellville has top underclassmen • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Russellville head coach Doug Goodwin takes his team into the playoffs this Friday night against Fort Payne with two of the state's fastest rising underclassmen. The 9-1 Tigers have been led this season by junior quarterback Joey Howe and sophomore sensation Brent Calloway, a two-way star at running back and outside linebacker. 

• The Scout Show on FoxSports.com • 'BamaMag
FoxSports and the Publishers of Scout.com team up to preview three of the nation's biggest games this weekend. Join Randy Sparage and Scott Kennedy along with the Scout Publishers as they break down Oklahoma State @ Texas Tech, Alabama @ LSU, and Cal @ USC. 

• Packing a punch • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
The Tide lead the SEC in rushing defense and are second in the conference in total defense.

• Davis Made Hard Choice For Alabama • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Louisiana native picked Bama over LSU because of Nick Saban

• Defensive Targets • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
After signing 32 players in the 2008 class Alabama is expected to sign close to the full amount again in 2009. Last year's group resulted in the nation's top class and so far this year the UA staff has put together a class that continues to rise in the rankings with each commit.

• SEC Power Poll • BamaOnLine
The Gators thumping of the Bulldogs resulted in UGA and LSU swapping places in the SEC Power Poll. Meanwhile, Alabama remained solidly entrenched in the top spot. 

• Crimson Clubhouse: Miles' response and Saban on Cody • Crimson Confidential
LSU coach Les Miles took the high road regarding some inflammatory comments made by Alabama defensive end (and one-time Tigers recruit) Luther Davis on Tuesday night.

• Women's Golf Finishes Second at Hooters Match Play • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's golf team wrapped up its fall season with a second place finish at the Hooters Match Play Collegiate Championship, falling in the championship match to Duke Tuesday on the Ginn ...

• First-half dominance • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | It's no secret that the University of Alabama football team has been dominant on the road this season. 

• Crenshaw couldn't resist return to Bama • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | One of the first things Wendell Hudson did after becoming head women's basketball coach at the University of Alabama was call Joni Crenshaw.

• Clemson's Swinney ready for Bowden without Tommy • Tuscaloosa News
COLUMBIA, S.C.| On a recruiting trip with his Clemson boss a few years back, assistant Dabo Swinney found himself in Bobby Bowden's office chatting alone with the two-time national champion. The meeting, Swinney's first with the Florida State icon, lasted about 10 minutes and left an indelible mark on the Tigers' young receivers coach

• Chris's Blog - Election Day - November 4th • Chris Stewart Sports
10:30 p.m. CST - History made, and then back to football...

• John Parker Wilson walks among Alabama's greatest quarterbacks,... • The Birmingham News
...but big wins and titles are missing from his resume
TUSCALOOSA -- In the record books, John Parker Wilson has taken giants steps among the legends. On the field, in the biggest of games, baby steps. 

• Saban closes in on SEC history • The Birmingham News
If someone had told Alabama safety Rashad Johnson when Nick Saban was hired in January 2007 that in Saban's second year the Crimson Tide would be 9-0 and No. 1 in the country, Johnson wouldn't have believed it.

• Alabama notes: • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - Saturday's trip to LSU is a game that has Alabama sophomore defensive end Luther Davis staying late at practice, "and doing a little extra."

• Road warriors: Tide steps it up away from home • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Over 90,000 fans are screaming, call­ing you every name imaginable. They boo whenever you run out of the tunnel at the beginning of the game. If it's possible, they'll boo twice as loud when your head coach makes an appear­ance.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide player has interesting memory of Miles • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- The buildup to the big game between top- ranked Alabama and 15th-ranked LSU now has more fuel on the fire after Alabama defensive end Luther Davis spoke to the media on Tuesday. 

• LSU: No ordinary road game for the Tide • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
When Alabama’s Antoine Caldwell runs onto the field for a road game, he feels an odd sense of ease and calm. 

• Peprah still rah-rah for Tide • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Even after a heartbreaking 19-16 overtime loss to the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, Charlie Peprah still managed to flash a smile.

• Matured Wilson leads way for Tide • Dothan Eagle
TUSCALOOSA — John Parker Wilson already owns every major passing record at the University of Alabama. 

• SEC Fearless Predictions, Nov. 8 • College Football News
Alabama has moved up to No. 1 in the BCS rankings, and while the rivalry game against Auburn will be a battle, there's one really nasty test left before the SEC title game: LSU. Can Charles Scott and the Tigers ruin the Tide's dream season? Check out the breakdowns and analysis in the Week 11 SEC Fearless Predictions. 

• CFN Staff Picks - Week 11 • College Football News
Picks and predictions for every game ... Week 11, Part 2

• Just another game for Saban, Tide • AlabamaFB
No. 1 Alabama takes on LSU in Baton Rouge on Saturday

• Woodson not surprised by Tide's No. 1 ranking • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
What's the reason behind the Tide's No. 1 ranking? According to hard-hitting safety commitment Rod Woodson of Olive Branch, Mississippi, it's hard work.

• TI TV for November 4 • WVUA-TV
See it on WVUA7.com, the home of Tider Insider TV.

• Black a big challenge for Tide defensive ends • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Ciron Black is one of the biggest -- and best -- offensive tackles in the SEC. Alabama's defensive ends know they're in for a battle Saturday against the 6-foot-5, 325-pound man-mountain from Tyler, Texas. 

• Not Louisiana's Luther • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's Luther Davis is a rare example of a top recruit who spurned in-state recruitment from LSU to play at Alabama. With the Tide and Tigers readying for battle, BamaOnLine.com takes a look at the talent each program has taken - and is working to take - from the other's state.

• BOLevision: LSU • BamaOnLine
BOL staffers Travis Reier and Chase Goodbread put a lid on UA's win over Arkansas State and look ahead to Saturday's meeting with LSU.

• 'Stable' Wilson looking for first win over LSU • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
There's an old saying in football that a quarterback

• McCarron will take visits, but still solid to Tide (video highlights included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
A.J. McCarron has been through just about everything a quarterback could go through during his high school career. 

• Crimson Tide Wraps Up LSU Week • RollTide.com
The top-ranked University of Alabama football team practiced for 90 minutes and helmets and shorts Thursday afternoon in Hank Crisp Indoor Facility, as preparations wind down for Saturday's game at...

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Special Teams Notebook • RollTide.com
Check out this week's special team's notebook, featuring Lou Groza Award semifinalist Leigh Tiffin. 

• ALABAMA FOOTBALL: Special Teams Notebook • RollTide.com
Check out this week's special team's notebook, featuring Lou Groza Award semifinalist Leigh Tiffin. 

• Volleyball Visits LSU and Georgia this Weekend • RollTide.com
The volleyball team (12-10, 5-8 SEC) hits the road for the final two matches of its two-week road trip when it travels to LSU (12-9, 7-7 SEC) and Georgia (14-11, 7-7 SEC). 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
100 Things: 1966

• Ian R. Rapoport: Only a year ago.... • al.com
LSU vs Alabama 2007

• Gentry Estes: Prospect watch: November madness in the state • al.com
Alabama is ahead of the curve for playoff football, as three in-state Crimson Tide commits start high school football playoff runs tomorrow night.

• Dennis Pillion: Alabama vs. LSU: The ultimate Saban Bowl pregame video and links blog • al.com
The election hysteria is over, and now it's time to focus on what's really important: SEC football. 

• Dennis Pillion: Live chat to bring Alabama, LSU fan bases together • al.com
In the spirit of unity, we here at al.com are teaming up with the good people at NOLA.com (New Orleans) to bring you our first-ever cooperative live chat between Alabama fans and LSU fans during Saturday's game.

• Dennis Dodd: With Saban, No. 1 'Bama writing new chapter in storied program • CBS Sportsline
The calendar says three years.

• Protection money • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's offensive line has been solid in pass protection this season, led by Andre Smith (71), but will have to be at its best Saturday at LSU. BamaOnLine.com takes a close look at one of the critical factors in this SEC West showdown: How much time will John Parker Wilson have to throw? 

• Bama in the NFL • BamaOnLine
Each week, BamaOnLine.com checks in on the all the action in the NFL and how former Crimson Tide players are doing around the league. This week, we take a look at 18 former Tide players active in the NFL who ... 

• Sorry, Nick, but it is about you • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Editor's note: Throughout the week leading up to Alabama's game with LSU, Crimson Confidential will be running stories from our sister Web site, TigerGumbo.com. This is the third of those stories. 

• Bama in the NFL - Players:
Wallace Gilberry signs with the Chiefs

• Andrew Bone: Recruiting Chat Transcript • Tuscaloosa News
Recruitng Chat Transcript (11-5-08)

• Gentry Estes: Thursday reading: Glen Coffee's turnaround • al.com
Today's must-read list starts with a good feature story from ESPN.com's SEC guru Chris Low, who took time from the coaching mess at Tennessee to tell us more about Tide tailback Glen Coffee.

• SEC-TV on FSN South - Thursday, November 6th • SEC Sports
SEC-TV on FSN South - Thursday, November 6th

• Maxwell, Bednarik, Munger Award Semifinalists Announced • SEC Sports
Maxwell, Bednarik, Munger Award Semifinalists Announced

• Fearless Forecasters: College Edition • Dothan Eagle
The Eagle sports staff gives their picks for some of the week’s biggest college games. 

• Scout.com SEC Pubs' Predictions: Week 11 • 'BamaMag
The SEC has some exciting match-ups in store for college football fans. Take a look at this week's predictions. 

• Another crazy Saturday can shake up volatile BCS picture • USATODAY
Just when Penn State thought it was in position to move up with a loss by Texas, the Nittany Lions watched Texas Tech pass them by in the new BCS rankings.

• Perspective Piece: Alabama-LSU • 'BamaMag
Nick Saban's not just coming back to Baton Rouge; he's doing so with his team in the driver's seat

• Elliott McGaskin Seeking Home • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Open to all schools

• Random Thoughts Prior to Armageddon • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
I suppose if someone asked me what the odds were of us being 9-0 and ranked #1 in the country in 2008 going into the LSU game, I would have told you that would happen when we had a black guy in the White House and atop the World Golf Rankings despite a six month hiatus. And here we are. 

• Tide still in it for Myles • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
The University of Alabama would still like to land another big-time safety in their commitment class of 2009 and Carver-Atlanta's Darren Myles would fit the bill perfectly. Find out if the Tide is still a part of Myles's recruiting plans and who else the Rivals100 member may be considering by checking the Ultimate Ticket.

• UA-LSU: How they match up • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama has a chance to clinch the SEC West at LSU, but must beat the Tigers for the first time since 2002. Where are the advantages for each team? Check out BOL's weekly look at position-by-position matchups. 

• Basketball preview: Alabama vs. Faulkner (exhibition) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
• WHEN: 7 p.m.

• No relief in sight • Tuscaloosa News
LSU coach can’t shake comparisons

• Alabama running game faces • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama offense has faced fronts crowded with defenders, safeties pulled up to within yards of the line of scrimmage and defensive lines that rank among the best in the country, but so far no one has been able to stop the Crimson Tide’s running game this season.

• Tide’s goal: Be prepared for Maui Classic • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The University of Alabama men’s basketball team will face its first outside competition of the 2008-09 season when Faulkner University comes to Coleman Coliseum for a 7 p.m. exhibition contest.

• Hudson ‘pleased with intensity’ • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | Wendell Hudson, first-year coach of the University of Alabama women’s basketball team, tried to be a neutral observer Wednesday when his players divided up for the Crimson-White scrimmage.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Tide still to decide how much to use Cody • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | It appears more certain with each passing day that University of Alabama defensive tackle Terrence Cody will be able to play in the Crimson Tide's Saturday showdown against LSU in Baton Rouge.

• Ian R. Rapoport: Is there a record for most posts about a backup defensive end? • al.com
If there such a record, I'm definitely setting it. But what can I do? People keep talking about the complicating situation surrounding Alabama defensive end Luther Davis, and so I gotta keep updating it, right? It was the focus of my story this morning.

• Dennis Pillion: Nick Saban's 11/05 press conference • al.com
Sorry for the delay, but here's the video of Nick Saban's press conference last night:

• The Huddle: Alabama Edition • Dothan Eagle
Alabama travels to LSU this week. The game will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. It airs on CBS.

• Recruiting Q&A: Cartersville's Donovan Tate • AJC
Cartersville’s Donovan Tate, a member of the AJC’s The Georgia 150, is the son of former Georgia tailback Lars Tate. He is considering Southern California, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan and North Carolina. He talked with staff writer Jay Stone about being... 

• Georgia star talks top five • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
Georgia is always full of outstanding athletes, but few can match the talent of Cartersville's Donavan Tate. The 6-3, 204-pound standout excels on the gridiron as well as on the baseball diamond. 

• BOL Picks Panel Contest • BamaOnLine
Win a free year of BOL picking college games head-to-head against BOL staff, media, and ex-UA standouts like Roger Schultz (Biggest Loser), and 2004 team captain Todd Bates.

• Bama in the NBA - November 5th Game Stats:
Check to see how former players did.

• Soccer:
Wednesday Night - SEC Tournament 

• Crimson Tide Focused on Tigers • RollTide.com
The top-ranked University of Alabama football team worked for two hours in full pads Wednesday afternoon as preparations continue for Saturday's Southeastern Conference showdown with LSU.

• Upset Bid Falls Short with 2-1 Loss to Florida • RollTide.com
The Alabama soccer team nearly pulled off the upset over No. 1 seed Florida but gave up two second half goals to fall 2-1 Wednesday night at the Orange Beach SportsPlex. The Crimson Tide took a 1-0...

• Crimson Team Wins Women's Basketball Intrasquad • RollTide.com
The Alabama women's basketball team kicked off the 2008-09 season and the Wendell Hudson era of Crimson Tide women's basketball with the annual Crimson-White Intrasquad game Wednesday evening at Co...

• Ian R. Rapoport: Saban: Miles has "won more games there than I'd have won if I had stayed." • al.com
You'd think that by Wednesday, we'd be out of material. No more things to discuss about Alabama coach Nick Saban and LSU coach Les Miles, right? 

• Gentry Estes: Nick Saban: "A lot of the things I was told about Alabama have not turned out to be so" • al.com
From a beat reporter's perspective, covering the nation's No. 1 team refreshes a lot of big-picture items. The national media begins really paying attention again. In a perfect storm scenario: That's especially true now when Alabama encounters LSU.

• Kevin Scarbinsky: Former LSU AD sees Woody and Bo in Saban, Miles • The Birmingham News
If you're an LSU football fan, staring down at the sidelines here Saturday, you might look at Les Miles and Nick Saban and see good and evil, both wearing headsets, one adding a white hat. 

• SABAN'S BIG-BANG THEORY • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA -- While praising his team's intensity after defeating Tennessee two weeks ago, Alabama coach Nick Saban expressed a desire for more skill players.

• Alabama defensive end Luther Davis' not expecting happy homecoming in Louisiana • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Luther Davis has been bracing himself to return to his home state for a year. 

• COLLEGE BEAT • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Cody will play after smooth week: 

• Sports Digest • The Birmingham News
COLLEGE SOCCER
Tide, Tigers, Blazers fall in tourneys: 

• Alabama back to watershed game of 2005 football season • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - The recent past and current success make it easy to forget a time not very long ago in Alabama football history. The Crimson Tide was "back" then, too.

• Alabama football notes for Saturday's game against LSU • Press-Register
No. 1 ALABAMA (9-0, 5-0) at No. 15 LSU (6-2, 3-2) 2:30 p.m. Saturday (WKRG/CBS) Tiger Stadium, Baton Rouge, La. -- LINE: Alabama by 3.

• Alabama noseguard Terrence Cody getting ready for LSU • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama coach Nick Saban expects noseguard Terrence Cody to "be able to play to some degree," Saturday at LSU.

• Legends like Alabama as best team in nation • Press-Register
If the Legends Poll, comprised of 18 former head coaches, were added to the BCS rankings formula, Florida would be very happy and Alabama would receive added support for its No. 1 ranking. 

• Mobile Press-Register sports writer Tommy Hicks' Harris Interactive college football poll ballot • Press-Register
Press-Register sports reporter Tommy Hicks is one of 114 voters in the Harris Interactive football poll. Each week, his ballot, along with his brief analysis, is published in SEC Extra:

• SEC football by the numbers • Press-Register
SEC teams that have scored at least 49 points in four consecutive games ? a feat that Florida could accomplish on Saturday against Vanderbilt.

• SEC Matchup: LSU vs. the light of day • Press-Register
Maybe it's a difference in the quality of the opposition. Maybe it's the extra four hours or so that LSU fans get to spend lifting their spirits. But whatever it is, there seems to be a difference in the home team at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, La., when it hits the field during the day and when it runs out on the field as the

• Sports Soundoff • Press-Register
Thursday, November 06, 2008
This is Sports Sound Off, where you can speak your mind on anything you wish. Because of the large number of calls received, not all can be published. 

• 2005 team still laments finish • The Huntsville Times
Alabama fell out of national contention with bitter losses

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Saban expects Cody to contribute at LSU 

• 2008 SEC Soccer Tournament - Day One • SEC Sports
2008 SEC Soccer Tournament - Day One

• LSU's 'Death Valley' lacks 'D' these days • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- LSU cruised into the month of October looking like the defending 2007 national champions. The Tigers were unbeaten and ranked in the top 5 nationally, primed for another run at the title.

• ALABAMA NOTEBOOK: Caldwell remembers last top-10 matchup against LSU • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Antoine Cald­well didn't have to be reminded that this is the second time in four years a 9-0 Alabama team faced LSU.

• Saban’s shadow still covers Miles • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
In the two separate photos, the similarities are stark.

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
On the Southeastern Conference’s coaches teleconference with reporters Wednesday, LSU coach Les Miles refuted a claim by Alabama defensive end Luther Davis that Miles referred to Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban as the devil during 

• Tide hoops to unveil prized freshman • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
TUSCALOOSA — Alabama fans will get their first chance to see freshman forward JaMychal Green wear crimson and play against another team Thursday, but Crimson Tide coach Mark Gottfried played coy on whether Green would start. 

• Tide player, Miles differ in stories • Dothan Eagle
If you detect a more nasty tone to the LSU-Alabama series, well, you’ve been paying attention. Or you know Luther Davis’ story.

• Perspective Piece: Alabama-LSU • College Football News
Nick Saban makes his much-publicized and eagerly-awaited return to Baton Rouge this week, but it’s the context surrounding the Alabama coach’s visit that has caught the college football world by surprise. 

• Tide focusing on the game • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
With three practices down, Nick Saban said the Tide's preparations this week had been "good," as top-ranked Alabama readied for its important SEC West macthup against the LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge on Saturday. Saban, who will be going back to Tiger Stadium for the first time as an opponent of his former team, is stressing that his players focus on the game. 

• Mixed Interest In Politics • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Players were caught up in following presidential election

• Official visits coming soon for Kelly • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Gadsden City receiver and Rivals250 member Kendall Kelly doesn't tip his hand much regarding his college recruitment, but with his senior season possibly winding down in the next few weeks, Kelly is starting to look ahead to possible visits.

• Following the Future • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
With many of the Tide's 2009 commitments now entering the playoffs, it is time for the 16 verbal pledges of UA to shine. In this week's Following the Future, find out the latest on Trent Richardson's latest huge game and much more. 

• Cody progressing • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Injured Alabama NG Terrence Cody will play against LSU Saturday, barring anything unforeseen, UA coach Nick Saban said Wednesday.

• VIDEO: Saban's Wednesday news conference • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Alabama head coach Nick Saban met with reporters following Wednesday's practice. 

• Smith sets visit to Alabama, eliminates Auburn, Tennessee (video highlights included) • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
An undefeated season. A No. 1 ranking. One coach on the hot seat. Two others shown the door.

• 1979 Alabama-LSU game was one for the ages • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
Alabama's history of success in Baton Rouge is well-documented. The Crimson Tide once went more than 30 years without losing at LSU's Tiger Stadium, and is 24-8-2 overall at the venerable venue. 

• TideSports Video: • Tuscaloosa News
11/7 - The Crimson Tide departs for Baton Rouge

• Ian R. Rapoport: Off to Baton Rouge... • al.com
Finally... it's almost time to play some actual, real-life football. Long week, right? 

• Chris's Blog - Friday November 7th • Chris Stewart Sports
2:15 p.m. CST - On the road to Red Stick...

• LSU-Alabama: Script Flipped! • College Football News
The pressure is all on No. 1 – can LSU step on Bama’s title hopes?

• Inside the Tunnel • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
BamaOnLine.com's Friday primer, Inside the Tunnel, is a must-read for Alabama fans wanting the best pre-game info on the Crimson Tide's clash with LSU Saturday. Get an inside look at the key head-to-head matchups, things to watch for and what to expect.

• Series Preview: Alabama vs. LSU • RollTide.com
Alabama and LSU will meet for the 72nd time this weekend as the two SEC rivals meet at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, La. The game will be televised by CBS Sports beginning at 2:30 p.m. (CST). 

• Ian R. Rapoport: When did Saban realize he made a mistake leaving LSU? • al.com
You'd think by now there would be nothing left to uncover about Nick Saban's relationship with LSU. And unbelievably, you'd be mistaken. While working on today's article on Saban's safety when Alabama visits LSU Saturday, I called the man who spent five years in charge of Saban's protection detail with the Tigers. 

• Ian R. Rapoport: New contracts for a bunch of (non-football) coaches! • al.com
Before I head out to Baton Rouge, check out an interesting development today... a bunch of coaches are gettin' paid. The headliner is Wendell Hudson, the new Alabama women's basketball coach. He's making $295,000 annually in a five-year contract. 

• Gentry Estes: Saban is "going to appreciate every person" wearing crimson at LSU • al.com
Let me pass along some salary news regarding Crimson Tide coaches and post once more on the topic of the week before leaving for Baton Rouge and hopefully some very good Cajun food in my near future.

• Gentry Estes: Tide golf coach Jay Seawell headlines raises approved today • al.com
(For a rundown of these coaches' work in the past year, check out the extensive year-in-review blog I posted this summer)

• Doug Segrest: Week 11 predictions • al.com
A big one down on the bayou and an intrasquad game on The Plain (at least if you judge by uniforms). All in all, not a bad week.

• Looking At Tide Vs. LSU Statistically • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Keeping in mind the “statistics are for losers” adage, over the years college football coaches have noted a handful of statistics that are important to winning and losing. Those include, obviously, scoring and scoring defense. But even before those, coaches seem to focus on three other areas. 

• Early Look: '10 RB Names Favorites • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
One of the best in Southeastern region.

• BOL Recruiting Nuggets • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
With Alabama preparing for a big SEC showdown with LSU this weekend, you can be sure that top prospects all over the country will be paying attention. In this edition of BOL Recruiting Nuggets, get the latest on several of the Tide's top targets, including what may be on the mind of defensive end Montez Robinson.

• Confidential Info: Friday, Nov. 7 • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
In today's edition of Confidential Info, read about a big-time out-of-state recruit Alabama is trying to pluck away from this weekend's opponent.

• Miami commit sets up Alabama visit • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
One of the top players in South Florida is planning on visiting Alabama in the coming weeks. 

• Men's Basketball:
Thursday Night -  Exhibition: Alabama 99, Faulkner 53 - box score

• Men's Basketball Beats Faulkner in Exhibition, 99-53 • RollTide.com
The Alabama men's basketball team won its first exhibition game of the season in convincing fashion over Faulkner 99-53 at Coleman Coliseum Thursday night.

• Women's Tennis Wins Six at Coaches Classic • RollTide.com
The women's tennis team picked up six wins Thursday following the opening round of singles play at the SEC Fall Coaches Classic. 

• Swimming and Diving Returns to Action Friday in Baton Rouge • RollTide.com
The Alabama swimming and diving teams get the UA-LSU weekend started in Baton Rouge this Friday at 3 p.m. in the LSU Natatorium in what promises to be a close, hard-fought meet. 

• Looking to the West • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | All the hype about Nick Saban returning to LSU, all the hoopla about the University of Alabama’s No. 1 national ranking and all the talk about the Crimson Tide’s national championship hopes have overshadowed an important fact about Saturday’s game at Tiger Stadium.

• Crimson Tide ride defense to decisive win • Tuscaloosa News
Senior Alonzo Gee leads Tide with 21 points

• Pittman, LSU’s line hold key to slowing running game • Tuscaloosa News
BATON ROUGE, La. | Of all the players who have been preparing to face Nick Saban’s University of Alabama football team Saturday, no know knows what to expect better than senior defensive end Kirston Pittman.

• Tide women host UWA in final exhibition game • Tuscaloosa News
TUSCALOOSA | The Alabama women’s basketball team will take part in its final exhibition game before heading into regular-season play when it takes on West Alabama today at 6 p.m. in Coleman Coliseum. Admission is free.

• Big SEC weekend for Tide • Tuscaloosa News
Alabama Volleyball Visits LSU and Georgia this Weekend

• Ian R. Rapoport: Alabama working on man-to-man for LSU... and other stuff! • al.com
So, let's actually talk about something that'll happen on the field. Sure, it's been a good week for storylines, but there is a game at the end of all this, right? 

• Gentry Estes: Alabama races to exhibition hoops victory • al.com
Alabama's basketball team made it look it easy tonight -- because it was.

• LSU has been waiting, with mixed emotions, for former coach Nick Saban to return with Alabama • The Birmingham News
BATON ROUGE -- Late this afternoon, Nick Saban's fear is going to become reality. The Alabama football team's plane will touch down in the town where he used to coach - and Dana Hastings will be there to meet it. 

• No extra security for Saban's visit, but LSU police to be more vigilant • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - It began with a joke. At the Southeastern Conference spring meetings, Alabama coach Nick Saban recounted an administrative meeting to discuss the itinerary for the team's visit to Baton Rouge.

• COLLEGE BEATS • The Birmingham News
ALABAMA
Receivers preparing for man coverage: 

• FIVE THINGS • The Birmingham News
A light-hearted Q&A with Vestavia Hills head football coach Buddy Anderson. What's the best car you've ever had in your life?

• No extra security for Saban's visit, but LSU police to be more vigilant • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - It began with a joke. At the Southeastern Conference spring meetings, Alabama coach Nick Saban recounted an administrative meeting to discuss the itinerary for the team's visit to Baton Rouge.

• Alabama defeats Faulkner in exhibition game • The Birmingham News
TUSCALOOSA - Toward the end of the first half, Ronald Steele dove onto the scorer's table to keep the ball inbounds, made a steal after it landed in an opponent's hands, then led the break for an easy basket.

• Alabama preparing for LSU freshman quarterback Jordan Jefferson • Press-Register
TUSCALOOSA - Alabama quarterback Star Jackson has worn a No. 9 jersey in practice this week to represent fellow true freshman Jordan Jefferson at LSU.

• Alabama's performance in exhibition against Faulkner... • Press-Register
... pleases Crimson Tide basketball coach Mark Gottfried
TUSCALOOSA - More experienced, polished and in the words of its coach "settled," Alabama's basketball team got the first step it wanted Thursday night.

• LSU defensive end Kirston Pittman praises former coach Nick Saban... • Press-Register
... as Tigers prepare to play No. 1 Alabama
Only a handful of current LSU players were in Baton Rouge in 2004, when Nick Saban coached his last season there. But there is one player who will line up in purple and gold Saturday who knows Saban all too well.

• Mark McCarter: Saban still has fond memories of friendship with late LSU booster • The Huntsville Times
The nurse who answered the phone in the Gulf Shores intensive care unit hurried excitedly to find Jean Gill. The nurse was to the point of hyperventilation. 

• Alabama notebook • The Huntsville Times
Tide defense prepares for all LSU QB options 

• LSU's swagger missing • The Huntsville Times
Struggling Tigers defense tries to gear up for Tide

• Tide too tough, 99-53 • The Huntsville Times
TUSCALOOSA - More experienced, polished and in the words of its coach, "settled," Alabama's basketball team got the first step it wanted Thursday night.

• Tide breezes by Faulkner in exhibition game • Crimson White
Alonzo Gee scored 21 points in 22 minutes as Alabama cruised past NAIA Faulkner 99-53 at Coleman Coliseum in the opening exhibition game of the season. 

• Gilmore girls show track promise • Crimson White
It has been said good things come in twos, and Sarah and Leigh Gilmore are no exception. 

• Tide hosts exhibition against West Alabama • Crimson White
The Alabama women's basketball team will take part in its final exhibition game before heading into regular-season play tonight when it takes on West Alabama at 6 p.m. in Coleman Coliseum.

• Saban not cowed by Bear's legend • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Mike Johnson still remembers his recruiting trip to Alabama, which came with a heavy emphasis on -- who else? -- the Bear.

• Saban praises UA's focus, preparation • Montgomery Advertiser
TUSCALOOSA -- Top-ranked Alabama worked out for 90 minutes in helmets and shorts Thursday afternoon in Hank Crisp Indoor Facility, as preparations wind down for Saturday's game at No. 15 LSU.

• Look for Tide to win in Baton Rouge • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
There used to be a time that every two years, the headlines in the Baton Rouge, La., newspapers were the same...

• College Football Notebook • Decatur Daily  (Subscribers Only)
Alabama
Crimson Tide football coach Nick Saban had a stake in Tuesday’s elections. While Saban did not say whether he voted for Barack Obama or John McCain for president, his good friend, West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin, won re-election. 

• Tide players sick over last year’s LSU game • Dothan Eagle
Alabama players remember Javy Arenas’ punt return — a 61-yard split-the-defense sprint that gave the Crimson Tide a seven-point lead with 7:33 left in last year’s game against LSU and sent nearly all 92,138 fans into a frenzy. 

• Road Trip: Heritage TE Jones to visit Music City • AJC
Heritage tight end Justin Jones plans to spend the upcoming weekend in Nashville, Tenn. on an unofficial visit to Vanderbilt. The trip will include an opportunity to watch the Commodores host No. 4 Florida Saturday evening. 

• Tide eager to avenge 2005 loss • AtlantaFB
In fact, the last time the Crimson Tide was undefeated this late in the year was a mere three seasons ago. The Tide faced LSU at home late in the 2005 season, and the ensuing overtime loss ended Alabama’s national championship aspirations.

• UA looks to end skid against LSU • Tider Insider (Subscribers Only)
For 22 months, this game has been circled by Alabama and LSU fans alike. Now, it's finally time to get it on. The undefeated and top-ranked Crimson Tide (9-0, 5-0 SEC) travels to Baton Rouge to square off against the 15th-ranked Tigers (6-2, 3-2 SEC) in one the most anticipated matchups of the season. 

• Stringer Holding Four • 'BamaMag  (Subscribers Only)
Junior guard off to fast start

• D.J. Fluker Is … Uh … Good • Crimson Country Club  (Members Only)
I watched the first half of Davidson v. Foley last night in the first round of the 6A Playoffs and used that opportunity to verify that D.J. Fluker is, in fact, a five star talent. The verdict is in: guilty. 

• Elite in-state junior favors Tide • BamaOnLine (Subscribers Only)
Blount safety Jarrick Williams figures to have his choice of top notch programs as he wraps up his junior season. In this premium football recruiting update, find out the latest on Williams's big season as the defensive leader for Blount and his thoughts on the Tide's big season.

• Five matchups to watch in Saturday's game • Crimson Confidential (Subscribers Only)
When trying to guage the relative strengths and weaknesses of Alabama's and LSU's football teams, there's no question where you look first.