Draft Watch: LSU @ Alabama

* The Quarterbacks: Right now, neither signal caller—LSU’s Jordan Jefferson or Alabama’s Greg McElroy—is at the forefront in terms of quarterback prospects. Of the two, Jefferson (6’ 5”/19 years old) has more upside—he’s younger, bigger and faster. The true sophomore was forced into early action last year and not surprisingly has been inconsistent. Through the first six games of the season, LSU was conservative. Not that they didn’t allow their quarterback to throw the ball, they did, Jefferson attempted more than 25 passes in four straight games leading up to the Florida game. However, he wasn’t put in game-deciding situations, especially when they played Florida. Coming off a bye week, Jefferson set career-highs with his 21 completions, 31 attempts and 242 yards against Auburn. Last week against Tulane, he averaged a season-best 9.6 yards per attempt. Now, Tulane isn’t Alabama (btw…neither is Auburn), so it will be interesting to see if head coach Les Miles chooses to put the game in Jefferson’s hands or not this Saturday. How Jefferson performs against Alabama’s stout defense, could go a long way in his progress as a quarterback.

While Jefferson is progressing, McElroy appears to be regressing. In his first two games, the junior out of Texas threw for 471 yards; and in his first SEC start he torched Arkansas for 291 yards and three touchdowns (no interceptions) on 17-of-24 passing. In the four games since then, McElroy has failed to reach 150 yards in any single game, throwing for a season-low 92 yards with two interceptions (no touchdowns) against South Carolina. At Ole Miss he completed just 44.1 percent of his passes. In his last three games, McElroy has lead the Crimson Tide to one offensive touchdown, as Alabama has bogged down whenever they get into the red zone. Their only offensive touchdown in the last two games, saw Mark Ingram take five straight snaps from the Wildcat formation against South Carolina as he led the way to the end zone. An extra week to prepare did worlds of wonders for Jefferson, we’ll learn on Saturday if this is the answer to McElroy’s woes. Although he is a junior and 21 years old, prior to this season, McElroy attempted just 20 passes in his career. The extra practice time is an opportunity to work on some individual skills. McElroy has a solid arm and frame (6’ 3/220) and early on it appeared Alabama might actually expand their offense from a year ago. But he has struggled against tougher defenses; this is a chance for the Southlake native to turn that around.

* Running Between the Tackles: With Charles Scott checking in at 6’ 0”/234 pounds and Ingram 5’ 10”/212 pounds, the two backs don’t physically resemble each other, but both do most of their damage between the tackles. A senior, Scott entered the season as one of the top running backs for the Draft Class of 2010. He is a big bruising back whose greatest asset is his lower body strength. Scott keeps those legs churning and does an excellent job of leaning forward to get that extra yard or two. The Louisiana native’s numbers are down significantly from a year ago—1,174 yards, 5.4 yards per carry and 18 touchdowns to 459 yards, 4.5 yards per carry and four touchdowns. A big game in Tuscaloosa and Scott can regain some lost momentum.

Conversely, Ingram has thrust him into the Heisman conversation with his play this season—1,004 yards, 6.6 yards per carry and eight touchdowns. Ingram is an extinctive runner who uses his great vision to find the wholes and when they aren’t there initially, he possesses the patience to let the wholes develop and allow his blockers to do what they have to do. Ingram is a powerful runner—low center of gravity, great leg drive and he always keeps his legs moving after contact. The Michigan native does a nice job coming out of the backfield as a receiver as well; he looks to immediately take it up-field, he doesn’t dance, but can make people miss with his moves or by running them over. He makes such quick cuts in the open field. Ingram leads the SEC with 11 total touchdowns. The only thing missing from Ingram’s game is breakaway speed, but his game speed may be underrated.

* The Pass Catchers: At 6’ 4” and 211 pounds, true sophomore Julio Jones has prototypical size for a wide receiver—the youngster already looks like an NFL wide out. He is among the most talented pass catchers in the nation despite pedestrian numbers (20 receptions, 220 yards, one touchdown), which have been curtailed this season by some nagging injuries for Jones, as well as very inconsistent play by first year starting quarterback McElroy. They are a shocking 0-for-12 when trying to hook up in the red zone. Jones is a mismatch for most defensive backs—he cannot only run away from defenders, but the kid is so physical. He’s almost like a tight end, seeking out DBs to punish when he gets the ball in his hands. Throw out the numbers…with an extra week to rest, Jones could be a ticking time bomb ready to explode. Jones is also the Tide’s backup punt returner and he has surprising quicks for a guy so big. He will be the best receiver on the field this Saturday.

LSU does not have a clear cut number one wide receiver—junior Terrance Toliver leads the team with his 38 receptions and 501 yards, not to far behind is senior Brandon LaFell who has recorded 37 receptions for 478 and a conference-high eight touchdown grabs. At 6’ 3” and 206 pounds, LaFell has an excellent combination of size and speed. He is a very natural and fluid runner with the ball in his hands; dangerous after the catch, which is why the Tigers often like to get him the ball quickly—don’t be surprised to see more than one screen pass go LaFell’s way. He is not afraid to across the middle of the field. After a disappointing sophomore season, Tolliver has finally broken out as a junior and provides the Bayou Bengals with another player who can stretch the field. At 6’ 5” Tolliver is a big target and LSU’s Jefferson will look to use that long frame. Tolliver makes his opponents pay primarily working the sidelines. He is not as polished as LaFell, but may have more upside once he reaches his full potential. He still needs to be more consistent with his route running and at only 206 pounds at his height; the Texas native could pack on a few pounds. LaFell and Tolliver give the Bayou Bengals two wide outs who will challenge Alabama’s talented secondary.

Don’t sleep on the tight ends either. Georgia Tech transfer Colin Peek has flashed the ability to make plays for Alabama. He has a solid frame at 6’ 6” and 255 pounds and he can go get the football. Senior Richard Dickson for LSU isn’t as big (6’ 3”/240 pounds) as Peek, but is probably more dangerous after the catch. Dickson projects as a potential H-Back or even fullback at the next level.

* The ‘Backers – Stud/Sleeper: Alabama’s Rolando McClain is a no-doubt NFL talent and the best overall prospect in this game of prospects. There may not be a better defender in the nation. McClain has the size (6’ 4”/258), speed, instincts and intelligence to play almost any linebacker position. Ideally, he will fit in as inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense with he bulk to take blockers head on, shed them and make the play. He is also a student of the game and seams to improve on a weekly basis, with the knowledge and leadership skills that are earning him a reputation as a coach on the field. He should be a top 10 pick when he decides he is ready for the NFL. On the other of the field, LSU’s Kelvin Sheppard is one of the most underrated linebackers in the country (bright, can play all three linebacker positions). He possesses athleticism, speed, quickness and a very good frame (6’ 3”/239). Sheppard comes in playing his best football; he’s a sure tackler who has the ability to make plays in the backfield. The junior hasn’t had the hype of previous LSU linebackers such as Ali Highsmith and Darry Beckwith, but he will play on Sundays.

* Ranking the DBs: Where do we begin? Not only do all four starters on each team have a chance to play on Sundays, but so do some of their backups:

(1) Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU – The sophomore has it all—size, speed and athleticism. It will be fun with him match-up one-on-one with Jones; Peterson more than held his own when locked up with Georgia’s A.J. Green earlier in the season. Not just a cover guy, this kid is a football player who will play against the run.

(2) Chad Jones, FS, LSU – The junior has really stepped up his game in his third season on the Bayou. Since he was a freshman we all knew the ability was there, but he was raw, more an athlete than a football player. This season it is starting to come together. Jones can fly and at 6’ 3” and 225 pounds he has prototypical size. He has also displayed the knack for making the big play at the right time.

(3) Mark Barron, SS, Alabama – The sophomore safety leads the SEC in both pass deflections with 11 and interceptions with four. Like Peterson and Jones, Barron brings both size (6’ 2”/214) and speed, and if the numbers are any indication, he possesses the ball skills. Barron waited his turn last season behind Rashad Johnson and this year he has more than lived up to the recruiting hype. Jefferson must know were he is at all times.

(4) Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama – Jackson has excellent instincts and displays an understanding of the game. He gets his hands on the ball a lot and often it appears as if he knows it’s coming, which speaks to his ability to translate the game plan to the field. Not as big as Peterson, but Jackson is not undersized by any means (6’ 0”/193).

(5) Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama – Arenas is a unique player among this group. He lacks ideal length (5’ 9”) but is built solid (195 pounds). He also plays big—his four sacks are second on the team and the senior leads the Crimson Tide with his 8.5 tackles for a loss. It’s safe to say he is very comfortable playing near the line of scrimmage and coming on a blitz—run or pass. Earlier this year he stole the ball from Shay Hodge of Ole Miss for an interception, another example of his physical play. More quick than fast, he looks like a prototypical slot cover man, who is also a special returner.

(6) Justin Woodall, FS, Alabama – Because he lacks ideal speed, Woodall doesn’t have the upside of Jones or Barron, but he is a solid football player who has excellent size (6’ 2”/221), he’s the biggest defensive back on the Crimson Tide. He is a solid tackler, who has made two interceptions and six pass deflections.

(7) Chris Hawkins, CB, LSU – The senior cornerback is an ideal number two cover man, with good speed and length (6’ 1”), but NFL scouts will probably like to see him bulk up a bit (182 pounds). Like Woodall, Hawkins can get lost in the mix with so many phenomenal athletes stealing the spotlight, but worthy of mid-round consideration.

(8) Jai Eugene, CB, LSU – Eugene probably has more upside than Hawkins, but is not quite there as a football player. The junior had some talking him up as a future number one corner, but that was before Peterson took the field. Eugene has shown flashes, but needs to more consistent. He seams to lose confidence and give too much respect to the opposition (read: cushion).

(9) Brandon Taylor, SS, LSU – You have to love Taylor’s closing speed when he attacks the line of scrimmage as he is doing a nice job of stepping into big brother Curtis Taylor’s shoes. He is undersized for a safety (191 pounds), but he is a good open field tackler. Not a big hitter, however he possesses coverage skills that many college safeties lack.

(10) Marquis Johnson, CB, Alabama – Johnson is part of a group of unheralded seniors on the Alabama defense that have surprised many with their level of contribution. The backup corner isn’t going to wow anyone with his measurables but seams to have a nose for the ball and is tied with Jackson for second in the SEC in passes defended per game (1.25) for a total of 10.

(Bonus) Harry Coleman, SAM, LSU – The Bayou Bengals’ strong-side linebacker at 6’ 2” and 206 pounds is not playing linebacker at the next level—the former defensive back projects as a strong safety. Coleman is having a great senior season with 52 tackles and five tackles for a loss, which has caused him to rise up some draft boards, however it has to cause some concern that he is having more success at linebacker than he did at safety.

* Scout’s Will Also be Watching:

In the Trenches: The Tigers’ are best on the perimeter with left tackle Ciron Black and defensive end Rahim Alem, neither of whom has helped their stock this season. For Alabama they are built inside-out with noseman Terrance Cody having an excellent seasons as the prototypical noseman for a 3-4 defense and left guard Mike Johnson their most NFL ready offensive lineman.

Boom or Bust: Senior tackle Al Woods is finally seeing consistent playing time after being an enigma in his first three seasons at LSU. He was seen as a potential first round talent, but failed to deliver on the field. Woods could significantly improve his status with a strong finish to his career.

Opportunities: LSU’s LB Perry Riley is considered a solid, not spectacular player and he can get a stock upgrade if he does a good job against Ingram and company. Junior college transfer James Carpenter is a talented left tackle for Alabama who is still learning the game and can make people take note if handles Alem. How about son of Bobby Hebert and LSU center T-Bob Hebert who will lineup across from Mount Cody? If he holds his own, the sophomore will start to garner recognition. LSU junior right tackle Joseph Barksdale is a very good prospect and will get a chance to show what he can do both in the pass and run games against the physical front seven of Alabama.

Senior Sleepers: Alabama: OT Drew Davis, RB Roy Upchurch, DE Lorenzo Washington, DE Brandon Deadrick, OL Cory Reamer; LSU: RB Keiland Williams, RB/RT Trindon Holliday, DT Charles Alexander, LB Jack Cutrera, DB Danny McCray

Stars of Tomorrow: Alabama: RB Trent Richardson (FR), C William Vlachos (SO), OG Barrett Jones, Marquise Maze (SO), WILL Nico Johnson; LSU: WR Rueben Randle (FR), QB Russell Shepard (FR), DE Chancey Aghayere (FR)

Photos Courtesy of SEC Sports Media, Alabama Media Relations, Steve Franz/LSU Sports Information

CFI Countdown: #4 Alabama Crimson Tide

2008 Record: 12-2 (SEC 8-0)
Bowl Game: Lost Sugar Bowl to Utah 31-17
Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Stadium: Bryant-Denny Stadium (92,138)
Head Coach: Nick Saban
Overall: 110-50-1 (14th season)
@ Alabama: 19-8 (3rd season)
Link to ‘Bama Football Page

In just his second season as headman of the Crimson Tide, Nick Saban had Alabama in the SEC Championship game with an undefeated record and a 20-17 lead heading into the fourth quarter. It didn’t work out too well after that, but Saban and his Tide made a statement to the rest of the SEC—Bama is back and they aren’t going away. The Tide should be right in the thick of things once again and could find themselves going toe-to-toe once again with the Gators in early December.

When the Crimson Tide Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: Jim McElwain (2nd season)
Scheme: Multiple Sets
Starters Returning: Four
Key Losses: QB John Parker Wilson, OT Andre Smith, RB Glenn Coffee, C Antoine Caldwell, TE Nick Walker, TE Travis McCall, G Marlon Davis

Alabama must replace seven starters lost from last season’s offense including veteran quarterback John Parker Wilson, as well as offensive line stalwarts tackle Andre Smith and center Antoine Caldwell. The first order of business is of course addressing the quarterback position with junior Greg McElroy set to take over the helm. McElroy is an accurate passer with a good understanding of the game—with experience, he may give them as much as JPW did. More difficult will be replacing the linemen—Smith and Caldwell have been starting in Crimson seemingly forever and Smith is a talent that doesn’t come around that often. The job of replacing the duo falls to junior college transfer James Carpenter at left tackle and sophomore William Vlachos at center. They do have an All-American candidate in senior guard Mike Johnson with senior Drew Davis back at right tackle. Glenn Coffee was also lost to the NFL, but with sophomore Mark Ingram, junior Terry Grant, senior Roy Upchurch, and true freshman Trent Richardson…they’re covered. Ingram is a hard inside runner, Grant flashed explosiveness in his freshman season, Upchurch is very versatile, and they will all be pushed by the highly touted Richardson. No one is more gifted than sophomore wide out Julio Jones, who stepped in looking like a man from day one. Jones has the size and hands of a possession receiver and the speed to stretch the field, which is the strength of fellow sophomore Marquis Maze. If not Maze, someone needs to take some pressure off of Jones. The arrival of Georgia Tech transfer Colin Peek eases the loss of their tight ends.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) WR Julio Jones (SO), 2) OG Mike Johnson (SR), 3) RB Mark Ingram (SO)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Kirby Smart (3rd season)
Scheme: Multiple 3-4
Starters Returning: Nine
Key Losses: S Rashad Johnson, DE Bobby Greenwood, LB Brandon Fanney (Transfer)

The biggest reason for Saban’s almost instant success in Tuscaloosa is how quickly he has put together the personnel to fit his 3-4 defensive scheme. They possess two absolute studs at inside linebacker in junior Rolando McClain and sophomore Dont’a Hightower—each checks in at over 250 pounds and can flat out run, striking fear in the hearts of all ball carriers. If, that is, those carriers get past noseman Terrence “Mount” Cody, who tips the scales at over 350 pounds and is the ideal anchor for the 3-4 defense. Helping him hold down the fort is senior Lorenzo Washington. Fellow end Brandon Deaderick suffered a gunshot wound this week, which isn’t life threatening (he’s been released from the hospital), but it remains unclear how it will impact his 2009 season. Coming off the edge, senior Cory Reamer is solid, but they could use more of pass rush from their linebackers—the one thing this defense has lacked. With two of the better corners in the SEC—senior Javier Arenas and junior Kareem Jackson—they can match up with almost any passing attack in the country. Senior Marquis Johnson is a solid backup, with true freshman Dre Kilpatrick talented enough to push for playing time. They must replace their leader in the secondary, Rashad Johnson, but do return senior Justin Woodall, one of the top free safeties in the game. Sophomore Mark Barron is ready to break out from his strong safety spot.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) LB Rolando McClain (JR), 2) LB Dont’a Hightower (SO), 3) NT Terrence Cody (SR)

The Schedule

Last season, they kick-started their undefeated regular season with a win over ACC favorite Clemson in Atlanta, which is exactly how they hope to start 2009, this time against the Virginia Tech Hokies in what looks more like a BCS Bowl then an opening weekend contest. Their toughest four-game stretch comes from October 10th to November 7th, although only one of the four games is on the road, at Ole Miss. If the Tide leave Dixieland unblemished they could be looking at a 12-0 record. Before they get there, they will have to handle South Carolina, Tennessee, and LSU to close out that stretch. Their season finale is at Auburn, in one of the top rivalries in all of college football.

Pivotal Point

With three-year starter Parker Wilson gone and the inexperienced McElroy—he of the 20 career passing attempts—taking over, quarterback play will be vital to the Crimson Tide’s success. However, just is important is replacing the three players lost from the offensive line—one tackle, one guard, and their center. One need look no further than their 31-17 loss to Utah in the Sugar Bowl to realize how key the O-Line play is for the offense. With Smith suspended for the contest, Wilson was back peddling all game long and was sacked eight times by the Utes. As a result, he Tide rolled…to a halt on the ground, averaging 0.9 yards per carry—not quite the 4.6 yards per rush they averaged for the season. McElroy’s success will go hand-in-hand with the development of the boys up front.

CFI Final Analysis

I don’t think anyone doubts that with Saban back in the SEC that the Crimson Tide will be a perennial contender. Even with the significant losses on the offensive end, with nine starters back on the defensive side of the ball don’t expect much of a drop off. If they can get past the Hokies in week one, they will have several weeks to work out the offensive kinks heading into their key conference clashes, which bodes well for ‘Bama but not so well for the rest of the SEC West. Expect the Tide make a return trip to the SEC Championship game.

College Football Insiders Top 25 Countdown:
The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams
#25 West Virginia Mounainteers
#24 Tennessee Volunteers
#23 Clemson Tigers
#22 Pittsburgh Panthers
#21 Michigan St. Spartans
#20 Utah Utes
#19 Oregon Ducks
#18 Florida St. Seminoles
#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#16 Boise St. Broncos
#15 North Carolina Tar Heels
#14 Penn St. Nittany Lions
#13 Mississippi Rebels
#12 Oklahoma St. Cowboys
#11 California Golden Bears
#10 Iowa Hawkeyes
#9 Virginia Tech Hokies
#8 Georgia Bulldogs
#7 USC Trojans
#6 LSU Tigers

#5 Ohio St. Buckeyes
Photos Courtesy of Alabama Media Relations & SEC Sports Media

Sugar Bowl: #6 Utah vs. #4 Alabama

By RALPH MANCINI

January 2, 2009 * 8:00 PM * FOX

The Utes and the Crimson Tide lock horns on Friday, Jan.2 in a battle that pits Utah’s prolific offense against Nick Saban’s powerhouse defense. It is a Tide defense which routinely keeps opponents’ yardage to a minimum and creates game-changing plays. On offense, Alabama will try to establish its punishing running attack with a road-grating offensive line which opens gaping holes for the two-headed rushing tandem, either of whom can take it the distance. Gaining yards versus a stingy, run-stuffing Utah defense, however, will be no easy chore. The undefeated Utes own the longest winning streak in the nation at 13 games. Both Utah and Alabama were tied at 13 before the Tide’s Dec. 6 loss to Florida. Utah also holds the distinction of being the first Bowl Championship Series buster in 2004 by beating Pittsburgh in the 2005 Fiesta Bowl.

When the Utes Have the Ball

The Utes ran roughshod over their Mountain West Conference schedule thanks in large part to their senior quarterback Brian Johnson. The Texas native isn’t your classic pocket passer, but he’s a clutch performer who can make plays with both his arm and legs. The shoulder injury he suffered last season has turned him into less of a runner but his ability to make game-winning throws in the fourth quarter has been a big factor in his team’s recent success. Johnson often has a plethora of options to throw to due to Utah’s frequent use of four- and five-receiver sets. One receiver who’s clearly emerged as Johnson’s go-to target is Freddie Brown. The 6’3” senior is an acrobatic performer, who’s really come on after three quiet seasons with the Utes. Brown leads the team in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. Wide out Brent Casteel is another weapon that puts defenses on their heels. His strength, instincts and explosive running skills make this Bay Area product a real San Francisco treat. The running back duo of Matt Asiata and Darrell Mack is also a force to be reckoned with as evidenced by their combined 4.7 yards-per-carry average. The 235 lb. Asiata is a load who excels at running downhill and bowling over defenders. The junior back isn’t as effective when forced to run horizontally. Mack is a dangerous runner in his own right, but has seen a decrease in carries after last year’s 1,000-yard season. The unselfish Mack has even proved to be a strong blocker for Asiata when called upon. The most vulnerable part of this offense is the offensive line, which doesn’t move defenders off the ball in the running game and also has some holes in its pass protection. Left tackle Zane Beadles is the line’s most athletic component, while right guard Robert Conley is both physically powerful and consistent. Expect Alabama to bring the blitz in an effort to disrupt Johnson’s timing and making him throw early. Louie Sakoda is the first Ute to win first-team All-America honors as a kicker and punter.

The Crimson Tide’s fourth-ranked run defense will pose an almost impossible challenge for Utah’s running attack. Opposing teams have averaged a meager 78.8 rushing yards per game against Alabama’s brick-wall unit, which features larger-than-life nose tackle Terrence Cody. The 385-lb. colossus often fights off double and triple-teams with ease on his way to dropping helpless ball carriers for a loss. The smaller Josh Chapman has filled in admirably for Cody during the year by maintaining a solid base versus the run when needed. The 6’5” Bobby Greenwood is also beast against the run, as well as being a standout special teams player that can block field goals. Fellow 3-4 end Brandon Deadrick is cut from the same mold. Neither Deadrick nor Greenwood are asked or expected to post gaudy sack numbers. Outside linebackers Cory Reamer and Brandon Fanney will often spread out to create a 5-man front line, which opens up lanes for middle linebacker Renaldo McClain and weakside linebacker Don’ta Hightower. The ability to take on lead blocks and still tackle his adversaries makes the 6’4” McClain a force of nature. This former tight end is versatile enough to read offenses and call plays from his traditional position. In addition, he can also provide some heat as an outside pass rusher. Free safety Rashad Johnson is a lethal weapon in the secondary, who flashes remarkable anticipatory skills that allow him to break on the ball early. The intimidating senior is one of the best open-field tacklers at the collegiate level. Cornerback Javier Arenas has outstanding speed and rarely gets beaten deep. Arenas’ return skills are second-to-none.

When the Tide Has the Ball

Alabama’s ground game is a big red machine that simply pummels teams to death behind a veteran line that will be without big nasty left tackle Andre Smith, the leader of this group. Center Antoine Caldwell is a punishing run blocker, who’ll run great distances when clearing the way for his runners downfield. Right tackle Drew Davis has also come into his own this season as an overpowering battering ram. Running backs Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram do an excellent job of taking advantage of the sizable holes before them. In addition to averaging over five yards per carry apiece, Coffee and Ingram have each scored over 10 rushing touchdowns. Coffee, in particular, is a master at setting up his blocks and turning on the jets with his breathtaking burst, which enables the fleet-footed Floridian to author numerous game-breaking runs of 40 yards or more. Ingram, on the other hand, has shown toughness with his willingness to pound the ball inside, but is also quick and shifty enough to break it to the outside. Ingram’s perpetual motion makes him a handful to contain. Over at quarterback, John Parker Wilson will never strike fear into the hearts of opposing defenses with his ordinary arm, but he’s very capable of moving his team when given enough time to throw. Wilson can often be seen playing catch with rookie receiver Julio Jones. The physical wide out has come storming out of the gates in his first season, setting Alabama rookie records for receptions (51), receiving yards (847) and touchdown catches (4). The 6’4” Jones is just as adept at making tough catches in traffic as he is gaining separation from tight coverage. Marquis Maze is an explosive and versatile red-shirt freshman, while Nick Walker is Parker’s reliable safety valve at tight end.

Utah’s defense has made a living creating turnovers and converting them into big plays. This unit is difficult to penetrate by running to the perimeter due to its speed. Without having to deal with the likes of Smith, defensive end Paul Kruger could very well have an impact in the outcome of this year’s Sugar Bowl. Much like Freddy of Nightmare on Elm Street fame, Kruger has been a haunting presence for quarterbacks all season with his uncanny speed off the edge, athleticism and non-stop motor. The former quarterback registered 7.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for a loss during his sophomore campaign. The other defensive end, Koa Misi, similarly pressures quarterbacks off the edge with great tenacity. Stevenson Sylvester is the one shining star among a linebacking corps that isn’t particularly big or fast. The roving 'backer sets the tone with his bone-crunching hits and inspirational vocal leadership. The 224-lb. play-maker can take over a game by racking up tackles from sideline to sideline. Sylvester will have his hands full versus Alabama as Nick Saban’s bunch will surely try to soften the Utes up the middle. The return of nose tackle Kenape Eliapo, who missed seven games due to a broken foot, may help shore up his squad’s overmatched run defense. Utah’s secondary brings a lot to the table in terms of size and speed along with their tendency to get into receivers' faces. King-sized cornerback Sean Smith is the unquestioned ballhawk of the defensive backfield with five interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown. Free safety Deshawn Richard also chipped in by converting two of his three picks into scores.

Final Analysis

The Tide’s firepower in the trenches will be too much for Utah to stop over the course of four quarters. The Utes are good enough to keep this contest close for a half…maybe. Look for Alabama’s size and talent to eventually cause the dam to break. Whatever the outcome, coach Kyle Whittingham should be commended for continuing to run the spread offense like a well-oiled machine and instilling his Utes with a never-say-die attitude.

Final score: Alabama 34 Utah 14

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, College Press Box

2008 SEC FOOTBALL ALL-FRESHMAN TEAM ANNOUNCED

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Nine of the Southeastern Conference football squads are represented on the ninth annual SEC Coaches’ All-Freshman Team, it was announced Thursday.

Georgia led the way with six selections. Arkansas had five selections, while Alabama, Florida and Vanderbilt added four on the rookie squad. Auburn had three members on the team.

Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green, center Ben Jones, Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve and Auburn punter Clinton Durst were the only players to be a unanimous selections to the team. Green was the SEC Freshman of the Year.

The entire team is listed below:

2008 FRESHMAN ALL-SEC FOOTBALL TEAM
(*-Ties / #-Unanimous Selection / Coaches could not vote for their own players)

FRESHMAN ALL-SEC -- OFFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Hometown

TE Brandon Barden Vanderbilt 6-5 245 Lincolnton, Ga.
OL Justin Anderson Georgia 6-5 338 Ocilla, Ga.
OL Cordy Glenn Georgia 6-5 331 Riverdale, Ga.
OL *John Michael Boswell Alabama 6-5 300 Tuscaloosa, Ala.
OL *Grant Cook Arkansas 6-6 320 Jonesboro, Ark.
OL *Kyle Fischer Vanderbilt 6-6 300 Columbia, S.C.
OL *Quentin Saulsberry Miss. State 6-3 293 Independence, Miss.
C #Ben Jones Georgia 6-3 304 Centerville, Ala.
WR #A.J. Green Georgia 6-4 200 Summerville, S.C.
WR Julio Jones Alabama 6-4 210 Foley, Ala.
QB Randall Cobb Kentucky 5-11 185 Alcoa, Tenn.
RB Mark Ingram Alabama 5-10 215 Flint, Mich.
RB *Jeffery Demps Florida 5-8 176 Winter Garden, Fla.
RB *Chris Rainey Florida 5-9 185 Lakeland, Fla.

FRESHMAN ALL-SEC -- DEFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Hometown

DL Jake Bequette Arkansas 6-5 265 Little Rock, Ark.
DL *T.J. Greenstone Vanderbilt 6-3 278 Lawrenceville, Ga.
DL *Zach Stadther Arkansas 6-1 285 N. Little Rock, Ark.
DL *DeAngelo Tyson Georgia 6-2 306 Statesboro, Ga.
LB #Chris Marve Vanderbilt 6-0 225 Memphis, Tenn.
LB Dont’a Hightower Alabama 6-4 250 Lewisburg, Tenn.
LB Jerry Franklin Arkansas 6-2 229 Marion, Ark.
LB *Spencer Pybus Auburn 6-0 207 Dothan, Ala.
LB *Daryl Vereen Tennessee 6-0 200 Charlotte, N.C.
DB Janoris Jenkins Florida 5-10 185 Pahokee, Fla.
DB Will Hill Florida 6-2 203 West Orange, N.J.
DB Charles Mitchell Miss. State 5-11 196 Clarksdale, Miss.
DB Neiko Thorpe Auburn 6-2 171 Tucker, Ga.

FRESHMAN ALL-SEC -- SPECIAL TEAMS
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Hometown

PK Blair Walsh Georgia 5-10 183 Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
P #Clinton Durst Auburn 6-1 190 Destin, Fla.
RS Dennis Johnson Arkansas 5-7 195 Texarkana, Ark.
Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

Game of the Week: #4 Florida vs. #1 Alabama

December 6, 2008 * 4:00 * CBS
Georgia Dome (71,500) * Atlanta, Georgia

IT’S NO SURPRISE that the Gators have made it to the Georgia Dome, but the Crimson Tide? No anyone doubted Nick Saban’s abilities, but after a 7-6 opening campaign the Tide’s ETA was expected to be 2010, or even 2011. This was supposed to be the year of the Tiger (LSU or Auburn) in the SEC West. Coming into this contest as a double digit underdog in some quarters, apparently even a perfect regular season has not made everyone Tide believers. This is not lost on Nick Saban and his players, “It's been like that kind of the entire season. It's always been that we haven't done enough,” said Alabama safety Rashad Johnson. The question now is: can they do enough this Saturday?

When the Gators Have the Ball

THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE between last year’s Gators and this year’s Gators on offense is the emergence of freshmen tailbacks Chris Rainey and Jeffery Demps. The duo barely outweighs Alabama’s noseman Terrance Cody, but the impact they have made is large. The track stars are known for their speed, which they use to hit the hole in milliseconds. Of course, it all begins with their junior dual threat signal caller. While his individual numbers are down, Tim Tebow believes he’s having a better season this year than he did last year, which can be confirmed not by a second straight Heisman Trophy, but by a trip to the BCS Championship Game. While Tebow continues to develop as a passer, his strength remains in his versatility. He is a powerful runner, reminiscent of an old school fullback. Florida could be without arguably their most dynamic weapon in Percy Harvin, who has lined up at receiver, running back and quarterback. Harvin’s speed and elusiveness allow him to make defenders miss, but will his injured ankle allow him to play a major role? When Tebow looks to go long, senior Louis Murphy provides him with a bigger target who does most of his damage down the field and outside the hash marks. Sophomore tight end Aaron Hernandez is coming on, offering enough size to outmuscle linebackers with the quickness and agility to give most safeties a hard time. The unheralded group from Florida is their powerful offensive line. Led by the Pouncey Twins (mike and Maurkice) on the inside, and left tackle Jason Watkins, this collection of big men is among the best in college football.

THE KEY TO any 34-defense is a stout noseman, one who not only commands a double team at the point of attack, but makes plays despite it. No one does a better job of manning the nose tackle position than junior college transfer Mount Cody, the nucleus of Saban’s ferocious front seven. Making plays behind Cody is sophomore MIKE Rolando McClain, the unquestioned leader of Bama’s defense. He can take on lead blocks and still make the tackle. In addition, McClain is versatile enough to serve as a pass-rushing linebacker. Weakside linebacker Don’ta Hightower is just a freshman, but he looks to lay the wood on the ball carrier, with the speed to catch his man. Junior outside linebacker Brandon Fanney has specialized at getting into the backfield against the run. Defensive ends Bobby Greenwood and Brandon Deadrick are solid run-stuffing specialists, but do not provide much in terms of pass rush. The only thing this defense lacks is a pure sack artist. The showstopper of the defensive backfield is senior free safety Rashad Johnson. The 6’ 0” defensive back has top-notch instincts in anticipating plays, which help him break on the ball early versus the run and the pass. He is always around the ball and has excellent ball skills. Johnson’s 73 tackles are second only to McClain’s team-leading 82 stops. Sophomore cornerback Kareem Jackson is their top coverman while the diminutive Javier Arenas can be an effective blitzer when called upon.

When the Tide Have the Ball

LIKE THEIR DEFENSE, Alabama’s offense is predicated on overpowering the opposition at the point of attack. Their experienced line is a force to be reckoned with, capable of controlling a football game from start to finish. Nick Saban’s crew of big uglies, composed of three juniors and two seniors, is considered to be the most dominant group of run blockers in the nation. Leading the way is arguably the most talented offensive lineman in the nation, Andre Smith. Extremely powerful, Smith is also tenacious and fundamentally sound. The Birmingham native has the raw strength to open gaping holes in the running game and possesses the quickness to shut down the fiercest of pass rushers, keeping John Parker Wilson upright. When he’s not busy calling out plays, stellar center Antoine Caldwell can be seen steamrolling second-level defenders. This massive front five allows power backs Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram to gallop through massive gaps. Coffee, who is one of the most underappreciated players of 2008, possesses the patience to wait for his blocks to develop and dash through them with an amazing burst, which has produced both long scores and tough yards between the tackles. Just a true freshman, Ingram is the other half of this lethal two-headed ground attack. He is a hardnosed back who can pound it inside and break some big plays as well. Both Coffee and Ingram are averaging well over five yards per carry with 20 touchdowns between them. Working off play action and looking to take advantage of eight and sometimes nine men in the box, quarterback John Parker Wilson is capable of hurting the opposition in his own way. JPW makes good use of the weapons around him when given enough time to throw and his first option is the 6’ 4” Julio Jones, another true freshman who plays well beyond his years. The physical receiver is athletic enough to gain separation from defenders, but is also known for making tough catches in traffic. He will need to make one or two game-changing plays if the Tide are to call themselves SEC Champs. Jones has more than four times the receptions of the second most productive wide out, speedy red-shirt freshman Marquis Maze. Tight end Nick Walker is Wilson’s safety valve, deft at working the sidelines.

FLORIDA’S DEFENSE LACKS a senior starter, but they are an experienced group that has improved by leaps and bounds from last season. In speedy and imposing middle linebacker Brandon Spikes, Florida boasts a crushing tackler who can make plays behind the line of scrimmage and in pass coverage. Beyond his physical skills, the 6’3’, 245-pound ringleader always seems to be in the right position to make a play. Jermaine Cunningham has come on this season as run stopper, capable of wreaking havoc in the offensive backfield against both the run and the pass with his lethal first step. Fellow defensive end Carlos Dunlap is their premier pass rusher, using his freakish closing speed off the edge for a man of his size (6’ 7”, 290-pounds). Strong safety Ahmad Black is a master at reading quarterbacks and he has six interceptions on the season to prove it. Free safety Major Wright is hard-hitting and tenacious. Freshman corner Janoris Jenkins has tremendous anticipatory skills, while sophomore Joe Hayden is better for last year’s growing pains.

Final Analysis

WHILE THE GATORS HAVE racked up more style points than other SEC teams, it was the Crimson Tide that ran the table. In his second season, Coach Saban has a team that believes 100 percent in what he’s selling, which is a physical and technically sound brand of football on both sides of the ball. No one is better at taking advantage of mistakes than Florida, but Alabama does not make many. Alabama’s season started with a surprise upset in the Georgia Dome (over then No. 9 ranked Clemson) and that is how it will end.

Prediction: Alabama 23, Florida 20

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

Q & A: John Parker Wilson, Alabama

CFI: Take us through the overtime - the LSU interception, the pass to Julio Jones, 24 yards to his back shoulder and the game winning score…

WILSON: They had a long third down and Rashad (Johnson) made a tremendous play in the back of the end zone to pick off a ball. It would’ve been tough for anyone to make, but he set his feet and dragged them in the end zone. We get the ball, coach (Nick) Saban said “let's take a shot” so we were going to try to throw it deep to Julio in the end zone, but their defender was playing him great, he had him covered up. We couldn't go over the top so we had to back shoulder him…(I threw a) a good ball but he made a tremendous catch to stay in bounds and get a couple yards after that. The quarterback sneak had worked for us earlier in the game, that’s how we scored our first touchdown, and just we were able to follow Antwan Caldwell right in the end zone, no question about it, to win the game.

CFI: Tell us about Julio Jones…how huge has he been this season?

WILSON: He has been tremendous. He is a great guy. He came in from day one as a highly recruited guy out of high school. He came in the first day and wanted to earn his spot, earn his playing time. He has done that, he has been a great leader on our team. The way he comes out and practices motivates everyone else on the team. He gets everyone else going. He is a great leader for the wide outs and really, for our whole team.

CFI: What was tougher to bounce back from - the missed field goal at the end of regulation or when your 35-yard touchdown run was negated?

WILSON: Earlier in the game we didn't play well at all. I think we played our worst half of the season in the first half and the defense kept us in it. We were lucky to be tied going into halftime as poorly as we played on offense. The harder play to come back from was the touchdown run that got called back because it put us out of field goal range, which meant we had to get back into it. The field goal kick that was blocked, you’re ready for the game to be over, but kind of expect something like that to happen so we were able to recover pretty well and win it in overtime.

CFI: You guys are playing for an SEC Title and a potential national title…but were you guys playing for Coach Saban on Saturday?

WILSON: It was big for us, it was big for him. He didn't make a big deal out of it all week, but we knew how much of a big deal it was just because he was going back to his old place where he won a national championship, had a lot of good memories there. Now we wanted to make some good memories for him here.

CFI: Tell us about the unsportsmanlike penalty. How many phone calls did you receive from LSU fans?

WILSON: You know I got quite a few. They get a hold of it and most people around the Southeast know it now, so I had to take care of that but it's a part of it. I guess it's something they like doing.

CFI: Tell us about being one of the Davey O'Brien Award Semifinalists.

WILSON: It's a huge honor to be recognized with some of the guys that are in that group and for an award that is so prestigious and well-known, everybody knows what it’s about. It's just an honor for me to have my name in that group and to be mentioned with those guys.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

Game of the Week: #1 Alabama @ #15 LSU

By RALPH MANCINI - CFI SENIOR WRITER

A red-hot No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide (11-0, 5-0) will be determined to clinch the SEC West this Saturday. However, in order to do so, they must subdue the No. 15 Bayou Bengals of LSU (6-2, 3-2). Last year’s national champions will also be plenty motivated to claim victory as they will look to keep their hopes for a berth in the SEC Championship game alive. The 72nd meeting between these two conference rivals will take place in front of over 92,000 rabid fans at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. Alabama leads the series 43-23-5, but LSU has won five straight.

When the Tide Have the Ball

SIMPLY SAYING THAT Alabama’s offensive line is a force to be reckoned with wouldn’t be doing it justice. Nick Saban’s crew of big uglies is considered to be the most dominant group of run blockers in the nation. Composed of three juniors and two seniors, this line features one of the nastiest and most talented left tackles in the nation in Andre Smith. Extremely powerful, Smith is also tenacious and funda-mentally sound. In fact, the Birmingham native has both the raw strength to play inside and the quickness to man the perimeter along the line of scrimmage. When he’s not busy calling out plays, center Antoine Caldwell can often be seen steamrolling second-level defenders. This massive front five allows running backs Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram to gallop through gaping holes. Coffee, in particular, is a master at waiting for his blocks to develop and dash through them with an amazing burst, which has produced long scores of 77 and 87 yards this season. Ingram is the other half of this lethal two-headed ground attack. The outstanding freshman is a hardnosed back, who can pound it inside and break some big plays on the outside with his shiftiness and perpetual motion. Both Coffee and Ingram are averaging well over five yards per carry with 15 touchdowns between them. Quarterback John Parker Wilson will never be confused with the likes of Joe Namath or Kenny Stabler, but he makes good use of the weapons around him when given enough time to throw. One of those weapons is the 6’ 4” Julio Jones. The physical receiver is athletic enough to gain separation from defenders, but is also known for making tough catches in traffic. Red-shirt freshman wide out Marquis Maze is an explosive weapon who can line in up a variety of positions while tight end Nick Walker is Wilson’s safety valve.

LSU’S SATR-STUDDED defensive line has the horses that can disrupt just about any offense. Defensive end Tyson Jackson is a fierce pass rusher who utilizes his bull-rush to apply pressure on the opposing quarterback, as well as stopping the run. At 6’5”, 292 pounds, Jackson is a physical specimen with a long wingspan, which helps tremendously when pursuing signal callers. Fellow end Rahim Alem adds an extra dosage of speed to the unit. The new starter has already notched six sacks, along with four quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and a blocked field goal. Over at defensive tackle, Ricky Jean-Francois is an immensely gifted athlete with a remarkable first step, which enables him to quickly gain penetration. The former track star would be even better if he played with greater consistency. LSU’s lack of discipline at linebacker this year has just received a much-needed shot in the arm with the return of Darry Beckwith. The oft-injured senior is a stabilizing force who isn’t the flashiest middle linebacker, but consistently gets the job done by cleaning up everything his line doesn’t get to. Free safety Curtis Taylor has been the one defensive back to provide any sort of consistency this season. The hulking 6’3” defender hits the opposition with the force of a sledge hammer. The rest of the secondary is somewhat limited, but cornerback Jai Eugene has cheetah-like speed and will eventually turn into a big-time playmaker once he hones his coverage technique.

When the Bayou Bengals Have the Ball

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR GARY Crowton is known for employing a potpourri of trick plays and misdirection plays to throw defenses off kilter, but for LSU to have any chance to win this battle, their offense must continue riding the gravy train. Charles Scott is a 233-pound thumper who has carried the load all season long with his punishing style between the tackles. Blessed with vision, size and an excellent burst, Chuck “The Truck” has powered his way to 889 yards and 11 touchdowns. Keiland Williams may rank second on the depth chart behind Scott, but he’s far from a backup in terms of his skill set. He adds firepower and explosiveness. The unit’s north-south running style is made possible by a mammoth offensive line that averages 316 pounds. Tipping the scales at 355 pounds is the line’s most devastating run blocker Herman Johnson. The 6’ 7” guard combines intim-idating size with quick feet, which allow him to move defenders off the ball with ease. Center Brett Helms and tackle Ciron Black join Johnson to form the core of LSU’s offensive line. The Tigers may choose to expose Alabama’s run-of-the-mill corners with big-play wide outs Brandon LaFell and Demetrius Byrd. The 6’3” LaFell is a fearless competitor with speed and good hands, while Byrd is the “X” receiver who runs precise routes and regularly outruns opposing cornerbacks. Tight end Richard Dickson is a sneaky weapon with 21 receptions on the season. Les Miles’ boys have been hindered by inconsistency at quarter-back. The banged-up Andrew Hatch isn’t starter material and while Jarrett Lee has better overall skills, he can’t seem to get on track in the accuracy department. The passers have 11 interceptions between them.

THE CRIMSON TIDE have perfected the art of neutralizing top-ranked running attacks this season with a defense that’s giving up just 65.6 yards per game. Nose guard Terrence Cody is the nucleus of Saban’s impenetrable three-man front. The 365-pound colossus regularly fights off double and triple-teams on his way to dropping helpless ball carriers for a loss. Although Cody has sat out the last two games with a knee injury, he plans to suit up for this week’s SEC rivalry game. In his absence, the considerably smaller Josh Chapman has done yeoman’s work, filling in by maintaining a solid base, which has enabled him to hold his ground versus the run. Bobby Greenwood and Brandon Deadrick are large 3-4 ends, but don’t look for these run-stuffing specialists to post any gaudy sack numbers. Outside linebackers Cory Reamer and Brandon Fanney often line up across the opposing tight end or tackle to create a five-man front, which frees up space for middle linebacker Rolando McClain and weakside linebacker Don’ta Hightower, who both look to lay the wood on the ball carrier. McClain is the centerpiece and unquestioned leader of Bama’s defense. He can take on lead blocks and still make the tackle. In addition, McClain is versatile enough to serve as a pass-rushing linebacker. The sophomore is responsible for reading the offense and setting up his teammates. The other showstopper on this defense is free safety Rashad Johnson. The 6’ 0” defensive back has top-notch instincts in anticipating plays, which helps him break on the ball early versus the run and the pass. The senior’s prowess as an open-field tackler is second-to-none. It’s no coincidence that McClain and Johnson are tied for the team lead in total tackles with 58.

Final Analysis
FOR ALL THE talent along LSU’s defensive line, it simply has not been able to stop any ranked teams lately. The reigning national champions have surrendered 51 and 52 points respectively to Florida and Georgia, which leads you to believe that Bama should have no problems putting at least 27 points on the board. Look for the Tide to control the game with its vaunted arsenal of running backs. LSU’s only hope in this contest is to get off to an early lead with one or two sustained drives and a helping hand from big-play return specialist Trindon Holliday. Unless one or both of those things take place, it’ll be a long afternoon for the home team on the Bayou.

Prediction: Alabama 27 LSU 17

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media