Bleacher Report - Articles by Cameon Shiflett

When Bleacher Report Gets X-Rated

Cameon Shiflett — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:08:17 -0400

When I joined Bleacher Report over a year ago, things were a lot different.

Lisa Horne was still writing, the Senior Writers were helping the young ones and weren't on a pedestal so high they needed a rope and harness to climb down. I wasn't banned by my school from clicking on links to stories that were on this site.

But alas, this has all changed.

This site, once known for its amazing sports articles and news that it puts out, now has a "Guilty Pleasures" section. Maybe it's always been there and I never noticed it. Maybe I just ignored it.

But there is no ignoring it now.

Why? Because it's everywhere.

I never in a million years thought I would log onto B/R and see pictures of women everywhere.

And not just women, but women that are barely dressed.

Sure there is some relevance to sports, but articles like "15 Hottest Fan Bases in the SEC," or "The Hottness Of Summer We Won't Forget" are a stretch.

I'm sure it started out like anything "harmless," with a slideshow here and a slideshow there, but it has spiraled out of control.

Maybe it's because I'm a woman and the thought of looking at women barely dressed just doesn't appeal to me. Maybe it's because I'm a woman that I am a little offended.

I thought that anyway, until I realized that a lot of the men on this site are older and have young daughters. A lot of the men on this site are offended by these pictures as well but they just don't say anything.

So, to make my rant short: Can we please go back to publishing articles that have some quality and decency and that are actually about sports?

I'm tired of looking at girls that are my age or a little older barely dressed and imagining men my dad's age gawking at them.

This could be your daughter a few years down the road.

These are other people's daughters.

So can we please get back to reporting about Alabama and the SEC Championship and stop with the hottest fan bases and hot summer moments?

Thank you,

Someone's teenage daughter

Inspiration is The New Steroid For Coaches And Players

Cameon Shiflett — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 17:31:07 -0400

We often question what keeps players motivated throughout a game. And especially those games where the fans and sometimes even the players feel like there is just no coming through with a victory.

Is it the fans screaming their loudest R-O-L-L-T-I-D-E cheer of the season?

Is it the players keeping in mind their mother's voice saying "You can do it baby?"

Or could it be something like a young fan that keeps them motivated to do better? A young fan that is going through harder times than that player is at the time that keeps them going through those last few minutes of a game.

I went out to find stories of players making an impact on fans and the way they live life, but I came upon something much more interesting.

I found an amazing story of a young boy and LSU left tackle Ciron Black. And for an Alabama fan to write something about an LSU player, you know it has to be good.

Mikey was an 8 year old little boy at the time undergoing treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. After having a bad reaction to chemotherapy, he was paralyzed, partly blind, and he would be in the hospital at least another year.

But the more important fact was that Mikey is an LSU fan and he loved watching LSU football when the season came around.

When Mikey's parents and friends wrote several LSU players for prayers and a few kind words Ciron Black did a little more. He found his page on CaringBridge.org and left the following response:

Hey Michael, I recently saw your story and wanted to have the honor to write in your guest book. My name is Ciron Black. I am the left tackle for the LSU Tigers football team. I’m also number 70 and I saw you wearing that jersey number, that’s a great number by the way. You know some people see us as heroes because of how we play but the truth is people like yourself are the real heroes. I see all the small problems I face are nothing compared to the hardships that you may go through. God has a plan for all of us and for some reason he put it on my heart to write you tonight … if it is at all possible I would love to talk to you. My number is xxx-xxx-xxxx anytime day or night if you need someone to talk to. Hang in there buddy and just know that anything is possible through Christ.

Your Friend,

Ciron Black

P.S. I would love to write your name on my wrist tape as I get ready to take the field on Jan. 7th for the national championship. Let me know if that is OK.

Mikey did call him and Black certainly did wear Mikey's name on his wrist tape during that game which Mikey was able to watch even though his doctor's said there would be no way that he could make a recovery in time.

LSU won that National Championship and Ciron Black said he would return this year to play his Senior season for the Tigers even though he would be a top twenty pick for the NFL Draft.

Why?

He wanted to play one more season for Mikey and the Tigers.

Ciron Black is an inspiration to other players and people in general. I found it amazing that Black said "people think we are heroes but you are the actual hero." And he is exactly right.

Ciron Black did something to help someone else without giving it a second thought. He didn't hold back and he just let himself hope and pray that this little boy would be OK and pull through.

Mikey served as Black's inspiration and Black served as Mikey's inspiration to get better. And now, Mikey's cancer is in remission.

Never forget about the power you can have to help someone and make them better. This LSU player certainly didn't and it's something to keep in mind while watching this young man play football for the LSU Tigers this '09 season.

Read more about this story in this month's Sports Illustrated.

Dear Drunk Driver: You Give Alabama Fans A Bad Name

Cameon Shiflett — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:45:55 -0400

Dear Drunk Alabama Driver,

I came across your truck on Grants Mill last night on the to pick up my sister from her friend's house and immediately thought "Someone has to be hurt in that car" when I realized that there was a young man standing outside the car trying to wave people down to help you.

Since I didn't have enough time to pull up and park I had to go up the road and turn around. And for those three minutes I thought "I hope I can make it in time to help that guy."

I didn't know if maybe you were a friend of mine that had been texting while driving and ran off the side of the road, or maybe someone's father that had dosed off because he was tired from all the late night diaper changes and bottle feedings, or worse, a family with little boys and girls screaming in the backseat because mommy and daddy weren't waking up.

When I finally got there I was told the other young guy didn't have a cell phone so I called 911 and tried to remember where I was and had to explain that I didn't know what had happened and I didn't know how long you had been there but that you were flipped over and was told someone would be there shortly.

Realizing that the seatbelt was strangeling you, the guy that was there and I quickly did our best to remove you from the vehicle without moving you to try and help you get some air. But then we realized getting air was the least of your concerns.

You had a small cut on your forehead, one on your lip, and a small one on your leg that you wouldn't have even noticed had I not brought your attention to it. But you also couldn't walk straight and you were slurring your words asking if either one of us could take you to your fancy home in Greystone that was located about 10 minutes away.

When I realized that you were drunk out of your mind, I almost wished that I hadn't stopped. When I realized that you were wearing an Alabama shirt and had a Roll Tide tag on your car it made me want to throw up.

You could have killed anyone. Me, the guy that stopped to help you, the poor family that was heading back from church...anyone. You didn't even care. You knew that you would be put in jail for driving under the influence. As well you should have been. And you were trying to get away.

Luckily, the cops and even the ambulance workers knew you had been drinking within 30 seconds of being there. And none of us mentioned anything. The alcohol smell coming off of your clothes and your breath made it obvious even without the swaying and slurring.

"A deer ran out in front of me" you said as the officer asked you what had happened. I almost yelled out "Yeah! A DEER CALLED VODKA!" but after realizing that the cops were laughing at your excuse, I realized it wasn't necessary.

I hope I never see you in Bama Fever buying another car tag because you, sir are a disgrace to the university you root for. I guess money really isn't everything.

This was a letter I almost wrote to the man I saved last night. I decided against it, because well, I didn't catch his name. And I don't know that I would have cared even if I did catch his name honestly.

When this man stumbled out of the truck and I saw his Alabama shirt I wanted to be sick. This man could have killed someone wearing the shirt of the university I love so much. And the other guy that stopped to help (someone else that I didn't get the name of) felt the same way.

I ask that you please think before you drink and drive. I ask that while you are at a bar supporting your favorite team and taking a shot everytime your team get's a touchdown, that you have someone with you that isn't drinking to take you home. I ask that you remind the man sitting in front of you at the SEC Championship that while the loss sucks, killing themselves or someone else would be a lot worse.

Help protect the integrity of the team you love and support so much. Help protect your rival fans because without them there, what are you going to do? Help protect fellow B/R creatures and B/R creature's kids.

Remind yourself and them, that drinking and driving isn't cool under any circumstances.

You Might Be an Alabama Fan If...

Cameon Shiflett — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:30:48 -0400

Over the years Jeff Foxworthy has made his living off of his famous "You might be a redneck if..." jokes.

Some of his most famous include:

"You might be a redneck if you think the last four words to The Star Spangled Banner are 'Gentlemen, start your engines!'"
"You might be a redneck if you think Sherlock Holmes is a housing project in Biloxi."
"You might be a redneck if you've been married three times and still have the same in-laws."

So, with those examples in mind, I decided to do my own little feature entitled "You might be an Alabama fan if..."

Please understand this is a humorous article and is not meant to offend anyone.

1. You might be an Alabama fan if you think there are 12 numbers on a clock or watch to represent each of Alabama's National Championships.

2. You might be an Alabama fan if you have ever told someone you coudn't make an event because there's a game on that day.

3. You might be an Alabama fan if you schedule your wedding, child's birth, or other major events around the Alabama Football schedule.

4. You might be an Alabama fan if any of your kid's names are Bear, Saban, Gene, Joe, or Julioette.

5. You might be an Alabama fan if the sight of orange and blue together make you want to throw up Chiziks.

6. You might be an Alabama fan if the sight of orange in anyway wants to make you throw up.

7. You might be an Alabama fan if, between a night out with your date/wife or Terrence Cody, you pick the night out with Mount Cody.

8. You might be an Alabama fan if you get annoyed when someone calls our team colors burgundy or checkered and you are forced to smack them.

9. You might be an Alabama fan if you have ever killed someone after a game (including the LSU/Alabama game).

10. You might be an Alabama fan if you have more tattoos dealing with Alabama than you have of your wife because "Alabama football give you more pleasure than any woman ever has."

__________________________________________________________________________

Bottom line, we all know Alabama fans (myself at the top of the list) can get a little crazy and have certain things that just make us fans. But, so does every team.

With that being said, if you would like to take a stab at "You might be an (insert team name here) fan if..." article about your team, feel free. But please drop me a link to it.

If you can think of anymore please post them below.

Again, THIS IS A HUMOR ARTICLE!

Alabama Vs. Virginia Tech: What Will The Outcome Be?

Cameon Shiflett — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:11:57 -0400

Surprises and shock are just a part of life. People are surprised when they get engaged, people are shocked when they find out they are pregnant, and people are shocked when a certain team wins a football game that they shouldn't have.

I have been asked recently to do a preview/prediction for the Alabama vs. Virginia Tech game. When I told this particular person that I wasn't going to do one he asked why and I game him the following response:

"I don't write previews or predictions for games because you never know what might happen in a college football game. You never know the circumstances and what could happen between now and then. You also don't know how the team will play, the weather conditions, or if God is a Hoakies or Crimson Tide fan. You just never know. And you can look at stats and such all day on a piece of paper and compare and contrast the two teams like you learned to do with books in high school and college, but stats are just that; numbers on paper."

At the time, granted, I just hadn't planned to write a prediction and came up with this amazing (or so I thought) reason why I wasn't going to.

This past football season was a season for surprises and so have past ones.

Alabama wasn't supposed to beat Miami for the 1992 National Championship. On paper, it just wasn't possible. Miami was a much better team, the offense simply could not pull it off, but in the end, the Tide won.

The University Of Louisiana Monroe was not supposed to be able to beat Alabama in 2007. On paper, it just was not even conceivable, but the growing number of Alabama fans crying after that game showed it had.

Ole Miss was not supposed to beat the Florida Gators in 2008. Florida had more talent, they had a better quarterback, a better coach, and every other thing that could have been a reason for them to win was said. But instead of saying a victory speech at the end of that game, Tim Tebow was instead making promises for a victorious season that he was promising Gator fans.

Alabama was not supposed to be a contender for the Clemson or Georgia game last year. But when they came out of both games with a significant win, it just showed that anything can happen in college football and the same could be said for the Utah vs. Alabama bowl game.

Surprising things happen every Saturday in college football. They have for as long as I can remember, they did before that, and they will continue to.

So, instead of a prediction based on stats that someone copy and pasted from ESPN to wikipedia on players and reporter's "in depth reports," and posting a prediction with the tagline "Provided the weather cooperates, there are no injuries, and both teams come to play and not a single player has increased or decreased in talent stat wise," I will just say that I hope both teams have a great season.

In my opinion, it should be a great game either way provided both teams come to play. I just hope I don't have to write a eulogy September 6th on behalf of the Tide.

The 2009-2010 season is only 50 days away, so get your shocked faces practiced in that mirror. You never know when you might need a good one.

A Life or Death Situation: How Far Would Your Rivalry Go?

Cameon Shiflett — Sun, 24 May 2009 00:07:05 -0400

Every now and then we hear something that makes us stop and think. Every now and then we hear about things that make us realize how thankful we are. But how often do we hear things that make us think how far we would go to help a rival?

Every team has a rival no matter how good or bad that rival might be. Alabama's rival is Auburn (or Tennessee or LSU depending on whom you ask), Nebraska's rival is Colorado, and Auburn's rival is Georgia (or Alabama.)

Rivalries are said to run deep. They have caused fights. They have caused divorces. They have even caused murders.

So how far would you go to help a rival fan if it was a life or death situation? Would you even help them at all?

Over the last week or so, I have seen fans from every community come and support Gray Ghost and his grandson Josiah as he was losing his battle to cancer. People from every community came and showed Gray their support and made sure he knew they were there for him in this time of need.

Suddenly, it didn't matter that Gray is a Georgia fan and I'm a 'Bama fan. It didn't matter that during football season, we beat them. Nothing compared to what was going on in his personal life.

I was struck again today while at work by another rival fan that realized that rivals only ran so deep.

Working at Bama Fever, I see a lot of Auburn fans refuse to come in and I hear a lot of snide comments as Tennessee and LSU fans pass by the store. I'm not however, used to the heart warming story I heard today at work.

A woman came in and asked if we had any pacifiers. When I took her over I also mentioned that we had some new baby clothes in and this was when she told me that this was actually for a sixth grader that was a huge 'Bama fan being treated for cancer.

She said she had gone in the Auburn store but they didn't have one because she was an Auburn fan and was just going to mess with her. But through all this, the little girl might just transform her.

Apparently, Nick Saban and John Parker called her (she thought talking to Nick Saban was a lot cooler and blew JP off), people have sent her messages, and she is still graduating from sixth grade this upcoming Thursday.

This was her teacher in Bama Fever just buying her Alabama stuff because it was what the little girl wanted.

So, how deep do rivalries really go? If a person from your rival needed your help would you do it?

Bama fans, I'm asking you to keep one of our fellow fans in your prayers. And I even encourage you to go to her page and read her story.

And, if you can get past your rivalry, I ask fans from other teams to do the same.

*****************************************************************

For other articles on GrayGhost and his grandson or other articles on this topic, check out the links below.

I let B/R creatures know one of their own needs our help here.

Zander shows his support after the death of Gray's grandson here.

Check out Blaine's article dealing with Relay For Life here.

One of Our Own Bleacher Creatures Needs Our Support

Cameon Shiflett — Mon, 18 May 2009 17:22:35 -0400

Most everyone knows B/R's own Gray Ghost. He's from Georgia, and you can often tell this through his comments during the college football season about his Georgia Bulldogs.

Although he makes his fandom known, his comments on articles for other teams are always kind, encouraging, and inspirational. And his articles are nothing short of that as well.

It almost seems like every article Gray writes is filled with some kind of encouraging message meant to help those in need. In fact, when I first started on B/R, he wrote an article for all the youngsters on the site, promoting our writing.

Gray welcomed me with open keys, and was one of the main people that really helped me to get started here on B/R and become my own writer. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

So recently, when Gray stopped showing up as often, I made a joke and asked him if he was only a member during football season. His response left me dumbfounded.

He left me a post of my bulletin board asking me to pray for his grandson.

Josiah, a 4-year-old little boy, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor about a month ago. Gray asked me and many other members on B/R to pray for him and talked to me through e-mail about the situation.

Gray continued to shock me. Throughout his whole e-mail, Gray talked about God and his faith and how we couldn't always understand why God did certain things but that there was always a purpose.

His last sentence struck me the hardest, though: "If I could trade places with the little guy, I would do it in a second."

Once again, Gray proves how selfless he is.

Now, Josiah is in a coma after spending his Make-A-Wish trip in Disney World. Doctors have said the bleeding in his brain is massive and he won't make it more than a few days.

I write this to ask everyone to please keep Gray, Josiah, and the whole Ghost family in your prayers. (Dean Herring is the actual name.)

Gray has always been there for each of us, whether to help us grow as writers, as people, or just in getting more reads for an article.

I say we do the same for him. Let him know he and his grandson are in your prayers and that your thoughts are with them.

A simple act of kindness can go a long way.

"I Hate Football. It's Just Guys Grabbing Others," and Other Date Enders

Cameon Shiflett — Sat, 16 May 2009 23:11:06 -0400

Recently single, I have found myself in the dating world. As I have met different guys, I have suddenly come upon the reason why I have stayed single.

The simplest reason? It's a jungle out there.

So, I've decided to list some of the main lines that definitely end the night. Some of them are sports related, some are not, but I'm sure most of you can relate.

1. "I'm sorry, which sport is football?"

Really? You have no idea what football is? It's the sport with the brown ball, bunch of guys in pads smacking into each other hopefully making touchdowns, and coaches screaming profanities that can not be aired and cost radio stations $5,000 a piece?

Although, admittedly I haven't figured out if this is a good or bad thing. I mean...it does give me the leg up in the relationship, and I can mold them into the perfect Alabama fan.

2. "I hate football. It's just a bunch of guys grabbing each other."

This one really gets me. Football is just a bunch of guys grabbing each other? Hardly. If they are doing it right anyway.

Football is an amazing sport. The talent it takes to be able to throw a football to your player in the midst of the other team's and get it in the player's hands is amazing.

The WR has to be in his place, the Center has to be in his place, your offense has to do their job. You have to pivot around the other players making every decision count and gain yards. Everyone has to be in the game or it doesn't work.

Football is just a bunch of guys grabbing each other? Check please.

3. "I'm an Auburn/LSU/Tennessee fan."

Now, this one is tricky. I usually end it right there because of the fact that Alabama is just a huge part of my life I don't think it could ever work.

I think going into Tiger Pride or whatever other stores they have for a Christmas/Birthday/Anniversary present would just about kill me.

And don't even get me started on Game Day. There would ultimately be cops called and news coverage from whoever's house we happened to be located.

Although, I will say that the fact that at least they know what football is counts for something...but not enough to make it to the end of the night.

4. "......."

Yeah, you know the date I'm talking about.

You know, the one that never seems to say anything intelligent...if they say anything at all.

The one where everytime you look at him you see them looking at themself in the reflection of their glass.

No thanks.

5. "My ex...yeah they were special. I really loved 'em...it was only last week that it ended." (Breaks out in tears)

Yeah...the date where you find out they aren't over their ex.

Aren't those the best?

Don't get me wrong, everyone has a past. I do, you do, even Jesus did...maybe. But, it is a completely different thing when all they talk about is their ex and how you are just like them.

The waiter starts to look better and better in these situations I have found...

6. "HEY! DON'T BE LOOKIN' AT HER! SHE'S MY DATE ALRIGHT MAN!"

Oh the over jealous type. These are a lot of fun.

You never know when you might get into a fight...or cause a fight rather. The cops come in and while taking them away in handcuffs they look at you and say, "What caused this?" You just smile and say, "I think it was the fish."

And, when you know a lot about sports and talk to guys a lot and have a lot of guy friends, this isn't a good situation.

Suddenly, you remember the stove was left on at home and must go.

7. "I don't really care about politics. I mean, it doesn't effect me."

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!"

It doesn't effect you?! It's YOUR money and YOUR rights they are taking away!

But, then again, these are usually the ones that have no idea who Osama Bin Laden or Saddam Hussein is...so, what can you do?

I KNOW!

Walk. Out.

8. "Um...your shoes don't match you outfit."

When they start telling me what does and doesn't match it becomes a problem.

Plus, Crimson matches with everything and everyone knows that. :)

9. "I would love it if you sat there and looked pretty. No need to talk."

Yeah...this date is always interesting. "Sit there and look pretty."

First off, that would be hard for me to do if I were attractive and were a mute person...

Secondly, since I am more opinionated than most and neither of those things, it is even more or a challenge.

Have you met my 6'5" brother date?

10. "I don't care what you think. You are wrong."

I love intellectual conversations. I don't expect a date to agree with me about every single thing. In fact, I would rather them stick up for what they believe in.

Debates where we both have good points and can defend our points of view and all that are entertaining and intellectual.

Telling me I'm wrong and that I should shut up? Yeah...Never Again...

I'm sure I didn't cover all of the stupid things that people can do on dates to make them end early or not get a call back. I'd be interested to hear some of the things y'all think or have had done to you to make this happen.

And, good luck to all those that are single. And to those that are happily in a relationship or married, congratulations. And, do they have a brother?

Age, Gender, and Medals: Just Three Things I Have in Common with Shawn Johnson

Cameon Shiflett — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:59:01 -0400

As the new leader for the up-and-coming community "The Foxes in the Henhouse," I thought I would introduce myself to those who don't know me and share some of the ideas I have for this community. And what better way to do it than to compare myself with a 17-year-old Olympic gold medalist?

OK, so I'm sure you might be wondering what an Olympic gold medalist and a regular person have in common.

Just wait and see.

1. Our age

Shawn Johnson and I both are 17 years old. While young, we both seem to be very mature for our age. I hope this is demonstrated to you as you view my profile, articles, and comments. And, most importantly, as we all get to know each other a little better.

The difference between Shawn Johnson and myself is that while she has the TV to show off her maturity, I just have a keyboard and people from Alabama.

2. We both have medals

Granted, I don't have any Olympic gold medals, but I do have medals from participating in sports when I was younger. I have one for Citizenship, one for Sportsmanship, and also one for Service.

All the values I had at the time of winning those awards I still hold to today. One of my biggest things is having respect for one another and trying to help people instead of trying to bring them down.

For this reason, I will be monitoring FITH and making sure that everyone is being treated with respect.

3. We both love to help

Johnson is involved in several campaigns that are known around the world. From "What You Do Matters," to "Exercise Your Character," Johnson is very involved with charities because she loves to help people.

I am much the same way. I participate in helping with Special Olympics, volunteer at Children's Hospital, help with a program called Honor Flight, and have organized several letter-writing campaigns for U.S. troops deployed overseas.

I love to help people, which means if you are ever stuck and can't come up with an article, find me. If you need someone to edit your article, contact me.

If you'd just like an opinion on an article, don't hesitate to contact me. Or, if you just want someone to talk to, I'm always there as well.

4. We both love to write

If you go to Shawn Johnson's site, you will see where she has several links to poems and blogs that she has written. She says English is her favorite subject, and she just loves to write.

I am the same way, which means I will try and keep consistent articles for this community.

I have been a member of the Alabama Crimson Tide Community for almost a year now, in which I have written 18 articles, posted 685 comments, received 717 comments, gained 71 fans, had 3 POTD awards, and received over 10,000 reads.

I also write on a blog of my own about sports and various other issues, which you may view here.

5. We love what we do

Shawn Johnson is a gymnast. While I don't have that in common with her, we do share the passion for what we do.

I love to write and I love Alabama football. I also love females getting more involved in sports and receiving more recognition for doing so.

For this reason, I am very excited to be the new community leader for "The Foxes in the Henhouse."

Shawn Johnson: A "Woman" Girls Can Look Up to Who Doesn't Shoot Hoops

Cameon Shiflett — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:32:54 -0400

"Miley Cyrus poses in nude photos."

"Britney Spears put in rehab after letting son ride on lap without car seat."

"Lindsay Lohan has fallen off the deep end. Again."

These are the kinds of headlines that we hear about the young ladies in the "business" these days. If you'll notice, none of the above messages are positive. Why? You'd be pressed to find a headliner that speaks of a young female doing well in society these days.

This could be because of the old saying that you can do good things a million times and never be noticed, but do one bad thing and that's what you'll be known for. Or, it could be because most young females in the spotlight really don't have their acts together.

Except Shawn Johnson.

If this name is new to you, here's some background information.

Shawn Johnson started her dancing career when she was just 3 years old after her parents realized that she had way too much energy, and dance didn't work. She was the first to join a new and upcoming gym of which her current coaches are still the owners.

In 2005, Johnson qualified for the National Junior Elite Status on her first attempt and won third place overall. She went on to win the 2006 U.S. Junior National All-Around Championship with a score higher than any of the senior elite competitors that year.

Johnson entered the senior division in 2007 and continued to showcase new skills, including a double twisting double layout dismount off the uneven bars.

She competed at the 2007 Tyson American Cup, winning the all-around title over teammate Natasha Kelley.

Johnson also competed in the 2007 Pan American Games, winning four gold medals in the team finals, the individual all-around, and the balance beam and uneven bar finals, and the silver in the floor exercise final.

Johnson also represented the U.S. at the 2007 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, where she and her team would go on to win.

She won four gold medals at this competition and would bring hope only the second team gold medal for the United States in the World Championships and only the fourth American woman to win the all-around.

In honor of these awards, the Governor of Iowa declared Oct. 17 "Shawn Johnson Day."

At the 2008 Summer Olympics, Johnson competed in all four events during the team competition, in which the United States won the silver medal.

Johnson also won the silver medal in the individual all-around competition, receiving a score of 62.725. Johnson's teammate and roommate at the Olympic Village, Nastia Liukin, won the gold medal, receiving a score of 63.325.

With Liukin taking gold and Johnson silver, this competition was the first time that the United States Women's Gymnastics team took both the gold and silver medals in the individual all-around competition.

This competition also marks only the fourth time any country has won both the gold and silver medals in the individual all-around competition.

She won the silver medal in floor exercise, with Liukin taking bronze. She did, however, win a gold medal on the balance beam apparatus. Like the individual all-around, she and Liukin took the top two medals in this event.

OK, all that's really impressive, right?

You haven't heard anything yet.

Along with "working out" for five to six hours a day (usually an hour per event), this young lady makes time for her friends, family, and causes that she wants to participate in.

This includes "What We Do Matters," which raises awareness for cancer that women are more likely to get, partnering with Crest to focus on dental hygiene and take toothbrushes to the needy people, partnering with fellow Iower Ashton Kutcher to sponsor a charity event to help those that suffered from the flooding in Iowa, and most recently has taken an interest in the "Exercise Your Character" program.

Impressed yet? I'm not even done.

Along with all of the previous engagements, Johnson attends public school at Valley High School where she is an Honor Roll student. She is also a member of several clubs and organizations.

Feeling worthless yet? I'm still not done.

With everything else, Johnson also took on "Dancing With The Stars" this season. This is where I start making my points.

While Johnson has achieved many great things, nothing speaks out more than her character.

While watching DWTS, I was impressed by Johnson's figure. Most people try and get stick thin for this show because of the skimpy outfits they try and put these girls in.

Johnson looks healthy! At a time when Nicole Ritchie and several others are "tipping the scale over" at 100 pounds, I thought it refreshing for a young girl to not be influenced by others and to be the way she is.

Not only that, but during the second week of the show she had to do the salsa. Traditionally, the salsa is a very "sexy" dance. You have to move your hips a lot and shake your butt.

When her professional dancing partner gave an example, she said, "I've never done that before. I don't think my booty moves like that."

Try finding one of these new "teen celebs" that doesn't shake their booty all over the place during the show. And I wish you luck, because I could not think of a single one.

Every one of them usually have some kind of explicit move in their routines. Britney Spears even comes out in costumes where her whole body is covered up simply by a sheer material with nipple tassels.

And these are the ladies our girls have to look up to?

Plus, this girl truly appreciates her fans. She is 17 years old. She keeps up with her own website, where she has a blog, writing, pictures, and a forum where she interacts with her fans.

Plus, she has her own YouTube page where she gives out her AIM address because, she says, "I like to be connected with my fans because they are people just like me. They cheer me on and I'm very thankful for that."

To me, a girl like this should be publicized more by television shows and magazines. Let Britney get her life back together, Miley put her clothes back on, and Lindsay find someone else to call her best friend. Let ladies like this be the guiding light that young girls look up to.

If you would like to check out some of Shawn Johnson's TV appearances to see what I'm talking about, you can click here and here.

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*****Do you like reading about women that are making sports history? Check out the new, upcoming community, "The Foxes In The Henhouse," to read more about them, and meet some of B/R's very own female stars.*****

Aretha Franklin Said It Best: "R-E-S-P-E-C-T"

Cameon Shiflett — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:50:36 -0400

Yes, I'm sure you might be thinking, "This 17-year-old knows who Aretha Franklin is?"

Of course I do.

She was on American Idol, after all.

And, the Inauguration of President Obama. (Notice which one I listed first.)

M jump-started this article with an amazing article of his own.

He touched on several key points and I thought I could make a few more that will hopefully help B/R to be the friendly, sports-oriented community that we would like to be. And yes, I am aware that I just put "friendly" and "sports" in the same sentence. But it'll be all right...we'll just follow Jordan Sparks' advice and take it "One Step At A Time."

To begin with, I love B/R. Since joining at the beginning of the 2009 season, I have enjoyed every minute of being here. This site has really allowed me to explore new writing styles, come into my own writing style, meet other fans that are as crazy as I am, and do it all in a respectable way.

Unfortunately, I think that has changed somewhat and I am sure that I might even be guilty of some of the things I am about to mention:

1. Treat others how you want to be treated

I'm sure you've heard this a million times. There's a reason for this—it's a good rule to go by! However, it doesn't do any good if you don't remember it and keep it in mind when posting responses to people's articles.

Criticism is fine, but make sure it is constructive. Otherwise, you are just making yourself look like a troll—as mentioned in M's article. When posting a reply, remember to post things that can help the writer become better and to help them grow.

2. Heated debate and arguments are fine, but there is a line

Passion, obsession, and love for our team, drivers, or wrestlers is something that everyone on this site has in common. Hopefully. With that being said, we as fans tend to want to attack the person attacking our team or favorite player.

Sure, he may have died a while back, but Paul "Bear" Bryant is still very important to Alabama Fans. Just because you are an LSU fan and don't think so doesn't mean you have to attack me. Why not mentioning someone that is important to you and giving some feedback that contributes?

Respect a person's view and opinion. Also, remember that people are going to have a different view of your own. And, don't mistake someone for being rude when they might just get over zealous in protecting their baby...I mean, team.

3. Get to know a person and their writing before making comments about them and their character

There is nothing more annoying and irksome than when a person starts talking trash about someone's character when they don't know the person and have only read one of their articles.

Chances are, when a writer has 20 or so articles, there is going to be an off article. Read more than one article from a writer. Read three or four. Then form an opinion.

And before attacking a person's character, get to know them. Before you ask, posting one message on their BB that reads, "Hey. What's up?" does not constitute as "knowing the person."

4. Don't judge a book by its cover

I know it is hard to not judge someone based on their looks, gender, age, or even race. (Although hopefully the last one isn't an issue on this site.) Kristin, Lisa, Mary Jo...There are amazing writers that happen to be female.

But there are also some amazing male writers. (SportMonk, Larry, or Franklin anyone?) There are also some young writers like Isaac that seem to always have good articles, but then there are more "seasoned" writers like GrayGhost that also put out some of the best articles on B/R, in my opinion.

There are some attractive people on this site, but there are also some...well, you get my point. Before judging a writer based on their profile picture, read their work.

5. Think before you "speak"

If an article makes you mad and ready to throw the keyboard out the window, take a breather before posting something. Chances are, once you take time to cool down and think things through rationally, you'll be able to post a comment, reply, or article that is a lot more suitable and constructive and not so demeaning.

Once again, it's okay to disagree. It's not OK to attack.

6. If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all

I know, I know...you've heard this a million times. Well, that's because it's a good rule to follow. If you can't find something to compliment, chances are you either aren't looking at it the right way or you are too biased while reading the article. Even if it's something like, "Nice style in the article although I disagree with your point."

Those things, while stating that you disagree, at least compliment the writer's style. If the writing needs work, try to give some ideas on what you think would have made it better.

Now. with all this being said, I am going to post this and get ready for the constructive criticism that might follow.

If y'all have any ideas or comments, please feel free to post below.

Regardless Of What You May Think, Football Isn't Everything

Cameon Shiflett — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:29:38 -0400

It's that time of year again. I'm not talking about that time when Alabama starts practicing for their broad-casted A-Day game. I'm not talking about that time when Alabama baseball is gearing up. No, the occasion I'm referring to is the death of four teenagers that had a love and zeal for life that most would envy, that were taken too young.

March 21, 2008...a day I'll never forget. Not today, but more than a week away. An early article because the point hope to be made would be made too late if I wait for the actual date. And I might not be strong enough to write it on that date.

It was Spring Break. Everyone had their own plans and own group of friends. But it didn't matter, because whether we were at the beach, at home, at Six Flags, or wherever else, rest assured we were all enjoying ourselves. After all, you only have one shot at being a teenager right? And we all planned on living it up.

Friday is a day we all look forward to in time. It's the weekday where we anxiously await the bell or the clock hitting 5 that tells us to go home for the weekend. It's the day before a football game for some, and the day of a football game for others. All of these things made Friday an ordinary day. But the fact that this was a Spring Break Friday made it even more extraordinary.

This particular Friday, there was gorgeous weather. 60 degrees with a slight breeze and the sunshine was out. It was perfect weather to be outdoors, the perfect weather to go horseback riding or the perfect weather to be riding around in a convertible. That's just what my friends were doing when Zach's hat flew off...and what would make more difference in their lives and ours than we knew was possible.

In high school, we tend to get so busy that we neglect the poor grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Spring Break seemed to be a good time to visit my Aunt in Georgia so I trekked out there that Wednesday or Thursday and was shocked to be getting calls asking if my sister and I were OK. And that's when I get the message...

Joel, Zach, Stephanie, and Lyndsey had been on there way to Oak Mountain State Park to go horseback riding when Zach's hat flew off. It was an Alabama hat that his deceased grandfather had given him. The hat meant a lot to him so he pulled off the Interstate, shifted into reverse and went in hopes of getting it back. That's when the back of his car fish-tailed and was hit by a Fed Ex truck going about 65 mph.

Emergency crews were called, police and EMTs said this was one of the worst scenes they'd been to in a while. if not ever. The teenagers were unrecognizable. One wasn't even found until the truck was pulled from the top of the car. One was thrown from his seat with his boots left on the floor. All dead immediately.

All the students returned Monday in shock. We had just had conversations with them. They had just been there...they couldn't be gone could they? Cliques and clamouring to the specific lunch table you sat at didn't matter at the moment. The math test Tuesday didn't matter and worrying about Prom wasn't that big of a deal. Instead, we were reminded about how Joel hated Math, Stephanie had just bought the perfect Prom dress, and Lyndsey had just bought her perfect 8th grade banquet dress two months early. (Pink of course)

A week full of funerals that reminded us of the people we had lost. The people their families had lost. Stephanie and Lyndsey could brighten up any room with their bright blue eyes and gorgeous smiles. They were sisters, so they fought, but they loved each other, and would do anything to help each other. Joel and Zach were "the good ole boys." Those guys could make you laugh when you really wanted to just cry. Both goofy, but both were guys that loved their family, friends, and country more than anything. All amazing people, all gone too young.

The news crews constantly reminded parents and teenagers about this tragedy. Comments on news boards mentioned that the driving age should be raised to 18, clearly overlooking the fact that Zach was 18. There were lawyers trying to get to the individual families. Every turn and every trip on the interstate to and from school reminding students of the people they had lost. The mile marker went missing, the black tire tracks, and blood stains that are still there today...are constant reminders.

Now, almost a year later, they are all missed. They are all loved. They will never be forgotten. Hopefully, their story and their families and friends pain will remind everyone that we won't be here forever. Joel's dad said at the funeral he had been bugging him to get a motorcycle and he'd told him later not knowing there wouldn'tbe a later. Stephanie and Lyndsey's mom said they hadn't let them go to the beach during Spring Break because they were too young and that they could go next year. They never imagined there wouldn't be a next year. No one did.

This isn't about football. This isn't about sports at all really. It's just a friendly reminder to give your kids an extra hug and "I Love You," before they walk out the door. It's just a reminder to the teenagers on this site that you aren't invincible. Anything can happen at any given time.

This is in memory of Joel Swinford, 18; Zachary Livingston, 18; Stephanie Baker, 17; and Lyndsey Baker, 14. You are all amazing people no matter where you are. And Steph, sorry the Iron Bowl didn't work out for ya. I could picture you waving another finger at me and telling me how y'all would win again. But I was sure Zach and Joel gave ya a hard time about it for me.

Those Darn SEC Fans: A Closer Look At The Fans And Their Reputations

Cameon Shiflett — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:57:15 -0500

SEC fans are known as some of the cockiest, most rude fans. However, in my opinion, it's the passion that SEC fans have for their teams that make the SEC not only the best conference to be a part of, but the best conference to be a fan in. No matter which team you might be rooting for. I'll be giving each team an overall grade, based on everything, a setting grade which is how the campus is how the atmosphere is, and an experience grade from the time I've spent with each of the conference fans. Add that in with some sarcasm, a few extra comments, and it should make for an entertaining ride. I encourage you to let me know what you think about each team's evaluation and even let me know of your own grading.

Begin Slideshow

You Call It Being Sly, We Call It Getting Our Way

Cameon Shiflett — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 10:27:55 -0500

Ladies, it's time we take a stand against all that is evil in this world.

And no, I'm not talking about phony skincare products or that lady who snatched the pair of shoes you had your eye on for 10 minutes in Belk (although we will have to take care of that later, I'm afraid).

I’m talking about something much, much worse...The “Y” chromosome.

The Ladies

B/R has taught me a lot. The most important thing being that I’m not the only female in the world that loves sports. There are actually other females that love sports just as much as I do.

For instance, Lisa is a big time sports reporter. And (you better sit down for this) she actually understands the questions she is asking. She understands the game and she understands the fundamentals of football. Not to mention, she is a terrific writer. Her piece about why women should be allowed in locker rooms is truly magnificent.

Kristin is yet another female that really knows what she is talking about. Her article about her NFL interview with Tony Mandarich is absolutely brilliant. Her love for football, plus her love for hockey, definitely makes her a top contestant. Not to mention those "Wedding Vows Of Football."

Then there's Mindi. She's a newbie to this site, but she was raised (much like myself) under the words of a wise father that told her everything she needed to know about football.

Now she's putting it to good use in articles like "End Of The World!! Or Is It?" This girl has some definite talent and I definitely look forward to her future writing endeavors.

And the bad thing is, I've only named a few. There are a ton of female writers out there, but unfortunately, I don't have time to name them all.

The Point

For some reason, there is this wide generalization going around that women can't appreciate sports if there aren't "pretty colors" on the field. And how wrong does this seem to be?

Very.

Ladies, do you ever feel like you intimidate guys with your sports knowledge? Like maybe sometimes you completely shock them when you are calling plays right beside them at the game or on the couch?

Or, better yet, when they call to tell you that Tuberville was fired, Alabama locked down Julio Jones, or Tennessee fired Philip Fulmer and you respond with "Thanks for the call, but I already knew that," you could literally hear them fall on the floor from shock?

Yeah. Same here.

And I think it happens more than we would like to even think.

The Confusion

Why is it so hard for men to believe that women can understand sports?

Women are competitive and emotional just like men are. In fact, I think men are more emotional when it comes to sports than women are (except the elite few).

Here's the deal though, women make tough choices everyday. Why should the team we root for be any different?

Women, just like men, are more than capable of making a decision about which team we would like to support. We are more than capable of watching a team and decided which team best suits our needs (whatever those may be).

We are more than capable of understanding the sport and how it is played. If we have a question, ask you, and get the "I can't believe you didn't know that," response, we won't want to ask again.

Don't try and transform us into the fan that you would like. That's the great thing about America. We have the right to choose which team we root for ( I think it's right there after "right to bare arms and right to free speech).

If we would like to root for Alabama when you're an Auburn fan, support us (And also realize that each year during the Iron Bowl, there will be no conversation). If we would like to root for Tennessee with you're an Alabama fan, so be it (Although, much like during the Iron Bowl, the third Saturday in October is off limits).

If we root for the Steelers and you are a Cardinal fan (well, that's just not acceptable).

If we root for Tim Tebow and you...Is there anyone that doesn't support Tim Tebow at the moment actually?

Let it be.

Be appreciative of the fact that we understand the sport you love so much and don't nag in your ear about dirty laundry like some wives do during the big game.

**Make sure and check out Angel Navedo's article on how turning his girlfriend into a football fan backfired.**

I Know You Love Your Team, But Shut Up Already

Cameon Shiflett — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 10:24:33 -0500

Alright, Bama fans. From you to me, it's time we had a talk.

Alabama fans are some of the nicest people I have ever met in my life. And I say that having met a lot of people from different locations/different teams. But guys, there are some things that have got to change.

The SEC is known for its football programs. Or, they used to be anyway. But, more than that, it is known for the type of fans we have. I used to think that we were known as being fans that stood behind our team no matter what. I used to think we were known for having some of the classiest fans out there. While some of that is true, some of it is very wrong.

As I go through BR mainly, I see the comments that are left to Alabama fans. Things that are being said about how classless we are and how arrogant we seem to be. Which, is apparently, because of our smug and arrogant coach.

So, I need to say this. And, I'm sure I will get shunned from the Alabama community, but hopefully not.

I see Alabama fans as being some of the nicest and most classy people out there. Granted, I am slightly biased. However, maybe it's because I'm right in the thick of it. Maybe it's because I don't see what others see. So, I took a step back...and saw what everyone was talking about.

1. The "Bama Can Do No Wrong" Attitude

Ladies and Gents, let me tell you. Bama can do wrong. Take a look at the last couple of years before Saban got here. Actually, take a look at this past year. You don't have to look very far. I understand the mentality of supporting your team. Believe me I do. However, understand that your team can do wrong.

The sooner you learn that is the sooner that you can actually look at games and say, "Oh, this is where we need to improve." If Nick Saban saw the team as the all holy shrine we wouldn't get anywhere. There are always things that need to be fixed. Even under the Bear things weren't perfect. (Although they came very close.)

2. The "Apologetic" Bama Fan

Alabama loses games. It is going to happen. That is the game of life and football. Especially college football. Stop making excuses as to why they lost the game. Over the past two days since Alabama lost to Utah that's really all I've heard. Excuses.

It's very simple. Alabama got beat by Utah. They were the better team at this game. They came to play. Now, accept that, and move on. Look forward to the new season. It's only four months until A-Day after all. You can come up with all of the excuses you'd like...but the fact of the matter is we lost. At the end of the game the scoreboard said Alabama lost.

We got beat by the better team. Both in that game and against Florida. We got beat by the team that came to play. For that, they are a better team. We didn't lose to Utah because Andre Smith was sent home. We didn't lose "because John Parker was back to his old self." We lost simply because we lost.

Stop making it into something else.

3. The "Bill Clinton is to Monica Lewinsky as Nick Saban is to God" Analogy

Ok...maybe that was a bad analogy. But at any rate, Nick Saban is not God. God is God. The "Bear" was not God. Nick Saban is not God.

Nick Saban has done an amazing job as a coach at Alabama in the two years that he has been here. Everyone even outside of the program was shocked by how well Alabama did this season. 12-2 was way better than most would have dreamed possible. Not only has he done an amazing job on the field but he has done an amazing job with these guys off the field as well.

Kudos to him. I'm glad to see 32 million dollars doing it's part.

However, we shouldn't bow to him. The commandment did not read "Thou shall have no other Gods before me. Except Nick Saban. He's OK." Yeah, no. Sorry to burst your bubble. And sorry about that Nick Saban costume you were planning to use for the Bethlehem rendition. It was cute though. Really.

I understand being a huge fan. I, myself, am addicted to Alabama Football. However, there is a way to do everything with some class guys. I love Alabama Football more than anything. I love the fans that I am lucky enough to get to surround myself with. I just wonder why people don't see us the way we see each other.

Every Alabama fan and others on this site know how much I love the Crimson Tide. However, there is a way to do it. Admitting your team lost to a better team and not sugar coating your loss is one way.

Class is what it's all about. Having fun and winning and still having class is still the same thing. Paul "Bear" Bryant said it best.It's a short quote, but like many of the Bear's, it says it all. It says, "Losing doesn't make me want to quit. It makes me want to fight that much harder."

Bama had an amazing season this year. Instead of looking at the glass half empty look at it half full. It will make your days seem brighter and your keyboard look more friendly.

We, as Alabama fans, will always be there for our team through the thick and thin. That's something not a whole lot of teams can say. But we can. That's something to be proud of. Now, let's win with class. And, more importantly, lose with class. We should be good at this after the years before Saban.

And this isn't just Alabama fans really. I've been among Ole Miss, Florida, Mississippi State, LSU, Auburn, Tennessee and a bunch of other fans. We consider them to be brothers and sisters when we are wanting the other one to win a Championship, but man when the game come down it can get dirty.

As expected. After all, it is a football game. Just remember that humble pie isn't something you want to eat on guys. Trust me, it doesn't taste that grand. Being humble doesn't make you any less of a fan. Believe me, it just makes you a better fan in my opinion.

If you disagree, feel free to comment. If you agree, feel free to comment. If you feel the need to just comment, please do. As always, I am up for anything.

In closing, I would like to quote Paul 'Bear' Bryant once more. You may know this one, as you should, since it's found on your Alabama souvenier cup. "Show class, have pride and display character. If you do, winning will take care of itself."

Roll Tide!

Did That Really Happen? A Bama Chick's Recount of the Utah Game

Cameon Shiflett — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:33:58 -0500

This morning was definitely one of those mornings when, as a fan, you wake up and think, "Did that really happen?"

Much like one of those nights that you know you will regret later on, it comes back and hits you that yes, it really did happen.

And suddenly, you feel the need to just go back to sleep and dream of National Championships.

The game last night against Utah was a little unexpected to say the least. The Utes clearly brought their game and definitely came to play.

I wish the same could be said for the Tide.

A lot can be said for games that shock fans, players, and coaches alike. And there are definitely two completely different types of shock.

1. The "I Can't Believe They Did That!" shock.

This shock is of a good nature. With appearances throughout the season, Alabama definitely had a lot of this shock happen.

From the season opener against Clemson to the whiteout against Georgia to the beatdown of Auburn, there were definitely some shocking moments that left Tide fans wondering what number God's crimson jersey had on it.

No one expected the Tide to be 12-0 at the end of their regular season this year. Saban himself didn't expect it. I mean, we all knew he was good, but not this good. Two years and an undefeated season? Not even the Bear himself did that.

No one expected the Tide to play 16 freshmen this year either. And we definitely didn't expect those freshmen to play like Julio Jones, Glenn Coffee, Javier Arenas, and Mark Ingram did. Not to mention, hello Mount Cody. You, my friend, are something of a miracle.

And, last but not least, who is this guy and what did he do with John Parker Wilson? John Parker broke all kinds of records this season. And, you could clearly see his decision making had gotten a lot better.

Good kinds of shock? Definitely.

2. The "WHAT DID THEY DO THAT FOR?!" shock

As you can guess, this shock is of a bad nature. Along with the good shock, this shock made its own appearances throughout the season as well. From games against Tulane to Kentucky to Florida and now Utah, these were shocking moments to say the least.

Andre Smith being sent home from New Orleans. This was definitely a bad shock. Most fans knew that he would choose to go to the draft after the end of this season, and who could blame him really?

The loss to Florida. Some this came as a shock to and others, it didn't. There were times in this game where I thought we had it. And then at the end, when I knew we didn't. Shocking? Yes and no.

The loss to Utah. This was very shocking. So much so that as I got up this morning I hoped it was all just a bad nightmare. Hopefully, when I woke up it was Friday, and we had yet to play the game. No such luck.

All that being said, this season has been full of ups and downs for the Tide. We finished the 2008 season 12-2. Call me crazy, but that's not too shabby in my opinion. Many will say we didn't face anyone. Many will say we are in the SEC Conference and that in itself, means we aren't that great.

There will be tons of excuses. This isn't about excuses though. It's about several simple facts. Alabama got beat by Utah. Utah was the better team during that game.

They came to play. Simple as that.

Alabama has had a great season. Nick Saban has done a great job with this team, no matter what he did/didn't say to the media. The Alabama fans have been there, as always, through the wins and the losses.

It's times like these when your "fanship" is truly tested. If you woke up this morning feeling a little out of it, you, my friend, are much like every other Alabama fan this morning.

If you started out yesterday as an Alabama fan and ended the day as an Ole Miss fan (kudos to them by the way), you, my friend, have a lot to learn about what it means to be an Alabama fan.

We are there through the wins. We are there through the losses. We are there through the interceptions and we are there through the touchdowns. We are there through the Paul "Bear" Bryants, the Shulas, and the Sabans. We are there in 1925 and we are here in 2009 and all the years in between. We are Alabama fans.

Call it arrogance. Call it smugness. We are proud of our team because they did a great job this season.

We are proud of our coach for the job he has done. We are proud of our players because of the way they have performed. We are proud to be Alabama fans. So, you call it arrogance. I call it pride.

For those that know what it is like to stand behind a team like we stand behind ours, I'm sure you can understand talking about the game against Utah was a little tough this morning.

We were "shell shocked," as Lisa so blatantly pointed out. But it doesn't keep us from being the fans we are. We'll be behind the Tide no matter what. As I'm sure you will be behind your team.

To all the fans that stick behind their team through it all...this one is for you.

Cody's "Relationship Status" Should Change: The Hysterics Of Alabama

Cameon Shiflett — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 18:55:43 -0500

This past week the big news was that Terrence Cody was going to the NFL and leaving the Crimson Tide.

Fans were sick. What were we going to do without "Mount Cody?" This was a huge blow to the Crimson Tide and something completely unexpected. I mean, who does this guy think he is wanting to go and accomplish his dreams? The nerve of the guy.

Then the news came out.

The whole thing was a joke played by Cody's girlfriend. And, more than that, it was a joke that was started and spread on Facebook.

Now, you know you're in a new age when word travels not by television or newspapers, but by Facebook. Boy how the times have changed huh?

My question is, what kind of sick, twisted girl is this? Does she enjoy making people sick? Does she enjoy causing fans agony? Even Cody was surprised.

When asked if he was going to the pro's Cody simply said "Yeah that was a joke my girlfriend decided to play. I am not going to the pros yet. I had people calling and texting me about leaving and I was like 'What are you talking about?'"

And with that simple statement, the rest of the world felt a gust of wind as all of the Alabama fans let out a huge sigh of relief (Ok, maybe not gust. More like a tornado).

Cody is at Alabama another year at least. He has stated that "Saban convinced him to stay and helped him to realize that it would really be the better thing." Great job Saint Nick. That was the best Christmas present a girl could ask for.

So, Cody is at Alabama another year but will his girlfriend be? I don't know about you but there are a few things that are deal breakers for me (In no particular order).

1. Clingy: Can't do it. I need my space. I'm a very independent girl and I like my room to breathe.

2. Jealousy: A little is ok. But when you get to checking my recent calls, text messages, and all that, you have gone too far buddy.

3. Lying: Don't deal with it.

4. Cheating: Kind of goes with the lying part. Once you do it once, I probably won't be able to trust you again.

5. Huge ego: That whole "God created Earth so I could walk on it" attitude doesn't work for me. Sorry Tebow. Ha.

6. Not a sports fan: Now, you don't have to be a sports addict like I am, but knowing a good bit about sports helps. Otherwise, when we go to sports bars, you are going to be embarrassed. So really, I'm only thinking of you.

So, those are my deal breakers. Maybe Cody's should read something like mine with a number seven that says "Changes status on Facebook to something that causes me harassment by Alabama fans."

"We": A Team's Blessing in Disguise

Cameon Shiflett — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:49:39 -0500

A few days ago, writer Kent wrote an article about how using the term “we” when referring to our team is wrong. And while I respect his view and opinion, I must disagree. And, luckily for me, this is America and my opinion is welcome (most of the time at least), and I have the mind to write my own article (for the time being,), with my own points.

So sit back and buckle up. This might be a long ride and Gray Ghost has said there will be no “potty stops.”

Kent started his article with a definition of the word “we.” The definition was simply “…the word with which a person in speaking or writing denotes a number or company of which he is one…” Kent then points out that the key part was “of which he is one,” and boy was he right.

Kent then gives examples such as “We are the best plastic surgeons in this hospital,” and “We finished the marathon in four hours.” He says because he is not the plastic surgeon or marathon runner he can’t say “we.”

In my opinion, if you are say the nurse with that surgeon in the operating room or even the trainer to that marathon runner you can say “we” because you were there to help, motivate, and support. You were there to help when things got tough and when you thought there was just no way. You were there to motivate when even you didn’t see a bright star in the sky.

I don’t know about you, but to me, that sounds a lot like a fan to me.

This is where Kent and I first disagree (didn’t take long did it?).

I know for me and many others on this site, you feel like a part of your team. You feel as if you should be right there with them. You are there to support them through the good and bad, through sickness and in health, for richer or poorer (even if those season tickets and gas money has made you the “poorer” one in the equation), til death do you part. You feel as if their successes and losses are your successes and losses.

He gives an example of a “beer-bellied, one-legged, 45-year-old fan” (and by the way Kent, just how did you run into my cousin?) saying things like “We are the best team in the country,” “Did you see the way we dominated on defense?” and several others. He then asks how we contributed to the way that team played?

And, without quoting his entire article, he then gives references to examples about building skyscrapers and other examples. And, while these are great examples, they have nothing to do with the topic he was writing about.

If you haven’t read his article please do so, because if you don’t I am afraid you will be lost from here on out.

As a fan, I may not have been to the team meetings. But you can your front row seat in…well…let’s say Auburn (It’s close to the other thing right? Ha.), that I’ve watched those player interviews and Nick Saban on that press conference talk about his worried and plans for this game.

As a fan, I may not have been with the team studying the playbooks and films. But that doesn’t mean I don’t know when the Tide isn’t going to blitz or run another type of play based on what players he has and what positions they are in. This is fun, for them and for the fans. This is what we, and they, live for.

As a fan, I may not have been at practice getting broken bones or concussions. You are right about that. But obviously you haven’t been to a real football game like Alabama vs. LSU or the Iron Bowl. People get broken bones and concussions all the time just from cheering in the stands.

And weather conditions? I’m sure if you ask fans that went to the Alabama v Mississippi State game they will tell you they were there in the cold, rain, and wind. And they loved every minute of it.

We as fans are not taking credit for their success. We are sharing in their success as we do in their defeats. We are standing behind our team no matter the outcome. We are fans. We care. We support our team.

Kent then talks about some “excuses” fans use to “legitimize” saying we. To me, they aren’t excuses. They are simply explanations. And there is a difference. And for the record, the weight joke wasn’t funny. I found it disrespectful actually.

“Excuse” One

“I am a die-hard fan with season tickets and I go to every single game, even the away ones.”

These fans are there through every game. They are there through the wins and the losses. They are there through the blistering heat and the freezing temperatures. Granted, they aren’t on the field physically, but you can bet your bottom dollar they are there emotionally. Just hoping everything goes the way it is supposed to and no one gets hurt.

“Excuse” Two

“I am a student at the school, so I should be able to say ‘we’.”

I am just thankful students have enough pride in their teams to attend these games. These students spend their money on tickets and clothes to wear to the games. They spend on the gas and the food and everything else.

While they might not be “in bed by 8 p.m. and up at 3 a.m. for weightlifting,” they are there for the game, supporting their team. And if they have "been drinking from 11 a.m. until six the next morning", well my friend, going to a game hung over shows even more dedication.

“Excuse”Three

“I played on the team back in 1965. That gives me the right to be a part of the team forever.”

You are exactly right it does. Every team now is they way they are because of history. Every team has former players to thank for the team they have now. These guys know the hard work and dedication it takes to play on a team. They know what it is like to be up weightlifting.

They also know what it means to have people behind you. Hence the reason they are 63 and at Bryant-Denny yelling for their team. Hence the reason they are beside all those “crazy hung over students” yelling right along with them. They know what it all means.

Alabama Coach Nick Saban was doing a radio broadcast before the Mississippi State game and asked all fans to not take the game lightly. He asked the fans to come out and support their team for this game just like any other (if you actually heard this broadcast you know there was some editing involved).

He said the fans and energy is something they feed off of. And after the game he thanked the fans for their support even through the cold, wind, and rain.

After the LSU game and Iron Bowl, Nick Saban said he “Was thrilled for the team and for our fans, they all really deserved this and wanted it.” Sounds to me like the Coach appreciates the fans and even considers us a part of the team.

We as fans may not have our name on a jersey on the field. However, we have the names of the player’s on our jerseys. Why? Because we respect them and support them and want them to know that. We may not be on the field calling plays but you can bet we are in the stands hoping that no one gets hurt and that the play they call goes as planned.

We as fans are there through the wins to LSU and Auburn and the losses to Florida and ULM. We are there to support the players and wonder what in the world they were doing at some points. We appreciate the history and the previous players. We are fans. We consider ourselves a part of the team.

Imagine a game with no screaming fans…seems very dull doesn’t it? "We" are fans.

A Humble Pie Recipe for the Ever Faithful Tide Fans

Cameon Shiflett — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:05:22 -0500

Oh how Alabama fans would love to see Tommy Tuberville make the above facial expression come the matchup against Auburn later this month. Nothing would make us happier.

Granted, this year has been rather humbling for Alabama fans as well as teams that didn't give Alabama credit before this season started. Even some of Bleacher Report's finest have had to borrow the recipe for humble pie this season.

Nick Saban warned Alabama fans to not drink the Kool-Aid that is Alabama football. Well Saban, it's hard not to drink something that has taken forever to make.

This season started out the right way with the Tide dominating over Clemson in the Dome with a 34-10 victory. Many ESPN analysts had predicted Clemson to stomp the Tide as did the coach and players of the Clemson team. The ingredient to their recipe? Excuses. Lots and lots of excuses.

The next weekend found the Tide going up against Tulane and dishing up a humble dose of pie for the Tide. This game was all-too important, making Alabama realize that the little games mattered just as much as the big ones. After all, you have to beat the poodle before you can go up against the pit bull right?

The next weekend finds us home again against Western Kentucky, fresh from a less-than-impressive game with Tulane. Western Kentucky...what was their excuse for their humble pie recipe? Oh yes...they didn't have one. They just realized they got beat by a better team and accepted it. (Gasp) The concept.

Alabama finds itself in Arkansas next, and after a 41-38 victory last year which was a little scary and last minute, the 49-14 victory was one that was nice to see. Humble pie ingredient? Maybe not. Kool-Aid ingredient? You betcha.

Alabama vs. Georgia. The "Blackout." After the 41-30 victory over Georgia, many Alabama fans thought the team should have been more worried about the game they were playing than what they were wearing. However, from the 31-0 score at halftime to the 41-30 score at the end of the game, the not-so-dilusional fans realized that Alabama needed to play a whole game and not just the first half.

Kentucky against the Tide was a rather interesting game. Alabama was accused of being a fair weather team and only showing up for the games they needed to. However, after Kentucky showed up against Georgia, many analysts realized this was a harder team than they would have liked to think. One serving of humble pie coming right up.

After an off week, the Tide welcomes Ole Miss at home. For the first time this season, Alabama seems to be matched with a team that is impressive. I mean, beating Florida 31-30 is pretty awesome right? Ask the scoreboard. It read 24-20 at the end of the game in the Tide's favor.

Tennessee. Those poor Volunteers. Getting beat two years in a row by a less-than-mediocre team must be pretty hard. Except we aren't less than mediocre. We came to play. We came to win. The 29-9 victory in this game was humbling. But ole Phil had already eaten the whole pie, much less just a slice.

Homecoming. A time for old friends to reunite. A time for friends, family, and maybe even those "closet" fans to come in and just cheer on our team. This is exactly what the team gave to Alabama fans in their 35-0 blowout against Arkansas State.

LSU. What a game. Although there were many errors in this game, the Tide stayed strong and pulled through several turnovers, fumbles, and useless penalties that cost the Tide several much needed yards and even a touchdown. (Cough John Parker cough). However, with a 27-21 victory in overtime for the Tide, this game was sure to be the one to be talked about. And of course it was.

LSU's main ingredient to humble pie: excuses. And Alabama fans heard them all. "Our quarterback is young and inexperienced." "We had a bad game." "Bama made use of bad calls from the refs." "Alabama got lucky." "Merry Christmas to Alabama fans. From mine to yours." Boy, the things LSU fans come up with.

Alabama vs. Mississippi State. TIFFIN MADE ALL THREE FIELD GOALS! This was one of the main points made in this game. Tiffin making all of his attempted field goals was definitely a plus as was the Tide's overall 32-7 victory over the cowbells.

Coach Nick Saban got heat about this game because of a sportscast with profanity in it before the game encouraging fans to not dismiss Mississippi State. Well, we didn't dismiss them. In fact, we were there through the rain, wind, and cold.

And this next week finds the Tide going against the Auburn Tigers in The Iron Bowl. One of the biggest rivals in college football. One of the few games that takes Auburn and Alabama fans alike and puts them in place for one night that can change an outlook on the whole season. Forget an 11-1 record if the team you lost to was Auburn.

So, Alabama fans, while there is nothing I would rather write about more than how Alabama is going to beat Auburn this next Saturday, I don't want a piece of humble pie delivered on my door by writers like Chris Mizerany.

I have the utmost faith in the Crimson Tide but I am refusing the Kool-Aid. Alabama has done an amazing job this season and I am so proud of these guys. So, while not bragging, it certainly sounds like I am doesn't it? But I will not drink the Kool-Aid until Nick Saban gives me permission to do so. Even when really tempting, I am resisting peer pressure. I am standing strong. Just pass on the jug. Have faith in your team and cheer them on until the very end. Just don't be one of those that has to borrow the humble pie recipe from writers like GrayGhost and Christopher Williams.

"Hey, Dad! Watch This!": A Tribute to Sports Dads

Cameon Shiflett — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:11:49 -0500

Think back to when you were little.

You're probably thinking about staying outside until your mom told you if you stayed out any longer you'd get a whoopin'.

You're probably thinking about watching all of your favorite shows and playing on your Nintendo GameCube (or just plain Nintendo, or Atari, or tiddlywinks mat, depending on your age).

You might be thinking about reading some of your favorite books and enjoying the times when your greatest worry was what your mom packed in your lunch that day.

And, for most of you, you are thinking about watching sports with your dad—going to those all important Pee Wee games, and, more importantly, sitting there on Saturday and listening to him scream at the TV.

Football admiration starts when we are little—not just football, but admiration for any sport, whether it be baseball, basketball, football, or even wrestling.

Those nights outside with your dad shooting hoops, dribbling the ball that he got you for your eighth birthday. That ball that he got especially for you. The "youth"-sized ball because Dad said you were too small for the "big kid" one. The endless games of "Horse" or "shoot out." The few times that you knew he let you win, but you overlooked it. Just the thought that you could beat your hero was enough to make you bust inside.

Those afternoons outside when, even after a long day at work, Dad comes home and asks if you want to go hit a few at the batting cages or throw the baseball outside in the yard. The ball and bat that he got you "just because." Just because you are that special to him. Your future is just that special to him.

Or maybe even those afternoons or weekends when you decide you want to throw a football around. That weekend when you are at Bryant-Denny tailgating and he wants to show off his child's amazing football talents. At least to him they are amazing. To him, you are amazing. So you throw that football around until the lighting bugs come out.

The football that he got for you signed by Jay Barker. The football that, while worn and tattered, still sits on display in your college dorm room 15 years later.

Maybe those nights when you said you wanted to be the first female football player to make it to the NFL, and Dad said, "You can do anything you want to, darlin', as long as you try and get determined about it." Maybe it's those words that keep you determined in whatever you do now—even if it may no longer be aiming to break the NFL's gender barrier.

Those days when Joe Namath, Kenny Stabler, Gene Stallings, and Paul "Bear" Bryant were kids' heroes.

Those days when kids respected their parents and said "Yes, ma'am" and "No, sir." When the most important thing to a child was what their parents thought about them and if they would be proud. When the most important thing to a child was their family.

These times have changed.

Now, there are kids that have Britney Spears and P. Diddy as their idols. You have kids who wouldn't even know what to say if someone asked them to say "Yes, ma'am." The biggest worry is whether or not they will be shot at school that day because of a kid someone has overlooked.

Staying outside all night throwing a baseball or football or shooting hoops is unheard of. Why do that when you can experience it all on the big screen with a controller in hand, right? Wrong.

Times are changing. Those fortunate enough to still have those memories or who are making memories with their dads throwing a baseball, shooting hoops, or throwing around a football should be grateful. They are few and far between.

Dads are shaping the future of sports. They are making our future players and, hopefully, creating one little boy's future idol. They are shaping someone's future.

So this is to all those dads that are out there playing baseball with their son or daughter, and even to those that, after reading this, realize that they have become too busy with work or something else, and go out and buy their son or daughter that new football to make it weathered and tattered for their future dorm room.

"Closet" Bama Fans Were Never In Style And Never Will Be Part Two

Cameon Shiflett — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 11:39:05 -0500

It's that time again. That time when bandwagon fans are at an all time high for the Crimson Tide.

And when I say again...it's really been 16 years so I guess we are long overdue for them.

I decided that the previous article needed to be added onto. Then I realized that there were too many things to just add on so I'm writing a completely separate article.

The Crimson Tide has won nine games. We are completely undefeated. With the LSU game next week I thought it appropriate it educate the bandwagon fans about some rivalries and about a few other things that might want to know before going into Death Valley.

The pattern that is associated with Alabama Football is called houndstooth. Not "black and white checkered." I realize I said this before. However, the point did not seem to get across so I am just stressing it one more time in hopes that someone will read this and correct someone.
The Alabama vs. Tennessee game has been played since November 1, 1901. It has been a rivalry that has attracted both teams ever since. Alabama leads overall in winning this game although the Vols did have a 9 year winning streak before Mike Shula broke it in 2005.
The Alabama vs. Auburn game is called the "Iron Bowl." Not "The Bowl." This game is not something that holds cereal or assorted flavors of ice cream. No, this game is much more and to not make it apparent that you are a bandwagon fan you must be aware that this game is one of the greatest rivalries in college football.

This game is the game where both teams, no matter the record that season, will come out and play their hardest. It was started in 1907 but was suspended until 1948 because of violence and rough play during the game and has been played every year since. Alabama had a nine year winning streak against Auburn in this series in the '60s which is a handy fact when coming across Auburn fans that like to throw the fact that have six wins against us in our face.
Alabama's most dominant color is called crimson. Not cherry and definitely not maroon. We are not Georgia or Mississippi State. There are no cowbells anywhere around Bryant Denny if we can help it at all.
The voice of the Tide is Eli Gold. There is no other voice like his. It must not be mistaken for anyone else. I can not remember a game I've listened to on the radio where he was not there to announce the Tide and help me to cheer on the Tide even if I wasn't by a tv or at the game.
"The Third Saturday In October" is referring to the Tide playing against Tennessee. This is not some fancy name we have for Halloween or the 22nd of October. Please look at your calendar for more information than what date the new Grey's Anatomy comes on.
Jay Barker is a lot more than "Sara Evan's husband." Please people. Learn some history about your football players. Here are some names you need to know: Joe Namath, Jay Barker, Gene Stallings, Kenny Stabler, and Michael Mizerany.
Julio Jones and Javier Arenas. Their names are pronounced "Hulio Jones and Havier Arenas." Not like how they are spelled. I realize that even some true Bama fans are struggling with this, but please. There names are mentioned frequently. You can do it. Just try real hard and spell it out.

I think this about sums up the things I wanted to cover in this article. Once again, true Alabama fans continue to amaze me everyday. We really are a close knit family no matter whether we know each other when we first meet or not.

As always, I am interested to hear your comments and suggestions.

Roll Tide,

Bama Chick

The Not So "Perfect" Alabama Fans

Cameon Shiflett — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 10:55:47 -0500

As a general rule, Alabama fans are some of the nicest people you will ever meet.

There is no doubt that Bama fans are dedicated to their team. Some call it passion. Some obsession. Some just pure craziness. Either way, there is no denying the love that Bama fans have for their team.

With that being said…there are a few things that most people will agree take things too far.

“Who will be the next ‘Bear?’”

This question is one that bothers me to the core. Paul “Bear” Bryant was one of the greatest coaches Alabama football has seen. There is no question about what the “Bear” did for the Alabama Crimson Tide as a team and even as a university.

However, comparing every new coach to him is not what Alabama fans need to do. Every new coach is a step in a new direction for the Tide.

History is something to remember and something to appreciate…but not something to try and regurgitate at every chance. This brings me to my next point.

“The Big 12”

Alabama has 12 National Championships. No matter how you look at it and how much you would like to argue that we have more or less that is the number that is officially on the books.

Not to mention flags, glass covers, notebooks, t-shirts…kid’s diapers. (OK maybe not the last one but I wouldn’t doubt it). Again, these achievements are ones that Alabama can be proud of. They are something to remember and to appreciate. However, the last National Championship won was in 1992. That was 16 years ago.

So, while Alabama fans would love to do it often, this isn’t really a viable point in arguments. Mentioning of the Championships are welcome in conversation when necessary. And no, rubbing it in every Auburn fan’s face is not always necessary contrary to popular belief.

“Bama can do no wrong”

This one has several within it that make it of “sub-bullet” worth.

“A Win Is A Win”—This has been the most common thing said in Alabama Football recently. Sure, we played a bad game against Kentucky, Tulane, and Ole Miss but we won so that’s all that matters right? Wrong. A win might be a win but that win showed us the faults that Alabama Football has. And yes, Alabama does have faults.
o “Ole Ye Faithful”—There is a difference between being passionate about Alabama football and just plain being stupid about football. There is a difference between being realistic and being negative. For instance, some of the “Ole ye faithful” fans are saying that Alabama will have no problems against LSU this upcoming weekend. The realistic fans are realizing that this game might be more of a challenge than most think. Being passionate about your team is amazing. Being unrealistic is something completely different.

“Anyone that doesn’t love Alabama should be shot on the spot”

I will admit I am an offender of this one. And maybe not shot…but just a lovely casting of rocks? Ha. My point on this one is simply Alabama fans tend to chew people’s head off when something is said about Alabama Football that they don’t like.

When Alabama’s faults are said out loud. Now, if the remarks are completely out there…by all means show them the light. However, we must all stop and think, “Is there any truth in what he is saying?” We want to remain the civilized fans that we are known to be. There is no need to be like the LSU fans. (That was a tad bit of sarcasm)

Please don’t get me wrong. I love Alabama Football. I love Alabama Football fans. I am simply stating some things that we could all tend to work on. If there are any more that you know of please don’t hesitate to let me know. Also, please let me know about the ones that I have posted.

Fan, Friend, Partner In Crazy Alabama Crime

Cameon Shiflett — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:16:16 -0400

There is nothing like going to a football game with the people you care about the most.

There is also nothing like going to a football game and meeting new people that you would have probably never met had it not been for this occasion.

With the Ole Miss game coming up, there are statistics that need to be published, thoughts about the game that need to surface, and predictions about the game that have been made but need to be backed up.

However, this article has nothing to do with the upcoming Ole Miss game or the upcoming Missouri/Texas game. No, this article is about the times you have had at football games, basketball games, soccer games, lacrosse matches, or maybe even a badminton tournament.

(Hey, they consider it a sport in the Olympics so why not mention it here?)

One that is most memorable to me is the Alabama vs. Arkansas game in 2007. We had amazing seats. About 14 rows up on the 50 yard line. I was with my mom and my sister. The breeze was blowing and the sun was down. And for those that have ever been to Bryant Denny on a sunny day sitting on the East side you know this was a big deal.

We had Arkansas fans sitting in front of us and they were nice...until the game started getting close. Alabama and Arkansas went back and forth all throughout and when Arkansas was ahead they got a new aura of snottiness about them. My mom told me "That's it. It's over," as Arkansas gained a four point lead with 1:28 left in the fourth quarter.

I told her the game was not over until the clock said 0:00 and I was staying. And boy are we glad we did. There was nothing like getting to see Alabama make the game winning touchdown not once but twice with the people that I care about the most. That was one experience I will never forget.

Never take for granted the times you get to spend with family and friends watching sporting events or doing anything else for that matter. As GrayGhost said once...You never know when it will be an "Empty Chair" sitting next to you.

I'm interested to hear about some of the memories you have.

ROLL TIDE,
Cameon

"Closet" 'Bama Fans Were Never in Style and Never Will Be

Cameon Shiflett — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:57:42 -0400

As the Alabama Crimson Tide approaches their upcoming game with a 6-0 record, there seems to be a growing number of Alabama fans.

Working at 'Bama Fever, I meet my fair share of Alabama fans that are interesting to say the least.

There are those like the man above that are Alabama fans to the core. (How else could you stand the pain of that tattoo? Ow!)

There was one man that came in with a tattoo like the man's above. He said "Paul 'Bear' Bryant has given me more satisfaction than any woman ever could." 'Bama fan? I would surely say so.

There are also those who will stand behind their team no matter what. One man came in and said "I have only cried at two games. Last year against ULM and this year against Georgia. Completely different reasons, though. One I was so disappointed in my team and the other one I was so proud of them and what they had become." True 'Bama fan? I would certainly say so.

These are the 'Bama fans I like to surround myself with: loyal, caring, trusting, true 'Bama fans.

Then there are those who come in and ask "Who is No. 14?" How can you have watched a single Alabama game and not know who number 14 is?!

Forget knowing about John Parker Wilson being from Hoover and achieving a great accomplishment, beating several of Brodie Croyle's records this year. Just knowing his name would be amazing!

In fact, knowing anything about the team you supposedly root for would be just fantastic.

Nick Saban is the coach of the Crimson Tide. So when you see a sticker that says “S The Coach” for sale in 'Bama Fever, why would you ask “What does the “S” stand for?" I know! Because you don’t know anything about the team you supposedly support.

True 'Bama fans know what is going on with their team. Granted, there are those who will know more than others, but everyone should know the basic fundamentals and what is going on. So, for those people who are “flip-flopping” to the Crimson Tide, please at least know these few key facts:

1) Alabama has won 12 national championships (you can’t be an Alabama fan and not know this fact, or you will give yourself away really quickly.)

2) The pattern we have on our hats is not “black and white checkered.” It’s called houndstooth, which was made famous by former head coach Paul "Bear" Bryant. (Again, you don’t know this, and you will quickly make people see you for the poser you are.)

3) The stadium we play in is called “Bryant-Denny Stadium,” NOT “The place in Tuscaloosa.”

4) The quarterback now is John Parker Wilson and he is No. 14. The quarterback previous to him was Brodie Croyle. He wore No. 12, which was also the number Joe Namath wore when he played for the Tide.

5) You need to know a few facts about the following people: Joe Namath, Gene Stallings, Paul "Bear" Bryant, and current players/coaches.

6) Our colors are crimson and white. Why? Because they are the tradition that is Alabama Football, not because “they are cute together.”

7) Our mascot’s name is Big Al, not “The cool elephant guy.”

These closet 'Bama fans are going out of style real quick. I guarantee you that after today’s game against Kentucky, some of them will go back to where they came from (wherever that might be).

Then next week when we go up against Ole Miss and hopefully show them how the Tide can really play, they will come back. They will come in and out like bell-bottom jeans and parachute pants.

For those true 'Bama fans...stay strong. We will pull through this. We have gotten through the past few years and we will continue to get through the times that will come again. All of you are one of the many reasons I love Alabama Football. And if you have anything you would like to add to this article, please feel free to leave me a comment. What is a true fan to you?

ROLL TIDE!

Crimson Tide Proves It's Here to Play Some Football

Cameon Shiflett — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 12:33:24 -0400

Excited and nervous.

If you're an Alabama fan, you are most likely feeling one or both of these emotions right now.

There is no doubt that the hype about Alabama football has greatly increased since Alabama's 34-10 victory over Clemson. Combine that win with the Western Kentucky smack down and the hog roast the Tide cooked on Arkansas last Saturday, and you have some crazy Bama fans. With the Georgia game coming up this Saturday, we are only going to get crazier!

Alabama has had some excellent plays and successes already this season. Obviously going two games without giving the other team a touchdown on defense was something to be proud of. Not to mention the overall performance each game and the Tide's willingness to learn from its mistakes.

In the season opener, No. 24 Alabama surprised everyone (maybe even themselves) with their impressive win over No. 9 ranked Clemson. From the 53-yard field goal completed by Leigh Tiffin to the 239-0 shutout on rushing yards, the Tide definitely impressed. But even with this impressive win, coach Nick Saban heeded caution about getting excited about one game.

In the next game against Tulane, Javier Arenas' 87-yard punt return gave him a new school record of 212 returning yards and Mark Ingram completed the first offensive touchdown of the game at the end of the third quarter. However, the Tide only came out of this game with a 20-6 victory, and Saban was quick to point out the Tide's need for consistency.

The third weekend of the season proved to be a good one for the Tide, pulling out a 41-7 victory over Western Kentucky. Julio Jones was finally able to show what all the hype was about preseason with 66 yards, including a 12-yard touchdown. Not to mention the fans' amazement at some of the guys that will be starting next year, such as Grey McElroy.

Saban even said: "We started the game out right, but most importantly we finished," proving that consistency was really the goal of the game.

Sept. 20 found the Tide at Arkansas for a little hog-roasting. Anyone that saw the game last year will remember the Tide's 41-38 victory in that game was much harder to achieve than this year's 49-14 victory. With the Tide "coming out firing and hitting them in the mouth quick," (or so said Arenas) they certainly proved that consistency was still a goal and something that has definitely been improved upon.

Now, with No. 8 Alabama going to third-ranked Georgia this weekend, we all have to question "Will the hard work pay off?" Many Tide fans agree that the two teams appear close in overall stats and that it will be a good game no matter the outcome. (That's not saying we wouldn't love to see the team pull out a victory, though.)

Is the Tide good enough to win? Sure. It's as good as it wants to be, and has proven here in the last few games it is here to play some football. However, Tide fans have to realize that this game will really be a true test for the Tide, considering who it has played so far.

The next question raised in most fans' minds is "Are we going to win the SEC championship?" Based on games so far and performance, it is really hard to judge this.

While the Tide has played some low-ranked (if even ranked) teams, the fact that the team has had an average 30-point lead is something to consider. I guess the real question is what the Tide will bring this Saturday.

All in all, this season has the makings to be a successful one for the Tide, so let's sit back and enjoy some SEC football!

Just Another Weekend In Tuscaloosa And So Much More

Cameon Shiflett — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:27:34 -0400

Football season...three to four months out of the year that you have the opportunity to go to a game and smell the amazing spells of a football game (if you were lucky enough to have someone sit beside you that put on deodorant before making that two mile hike to their seat). Those three to four months that you get to go and meet new people and just relax. This time only comes once a year and it seems like it is already coming to an end.

I am one of those girls that goes to every Alabama football game she can. I love the sport and more than that I love the people that I get to meet and the things I get to experience. Because of school and band and working this past weekend's game against Western Kentucky was the first Alabama football game I've been able to attend this season. Although sick it couldn't have been a better weekend.

While at the game we met many new people while tailgating and at the game. There were jokes said and comments made about the game and of course talk about the future of our favorite football team. I've always loved Tuscaloosa. The atmosphere and the people can't be compared to that of anywhere else.

As I watched and got to know the people around me and as we all started sharing tidbits of who we were and where we were from I realized how close of a tight knit family we all are. We might all have different opinions when it comes to politics and family but we all come together to watch our favorite team play. We are all there to support them and to support one another.

We were sitting in front of two little boys that would cheer and laugh and try and scare us. The whole game we were teaching them about the game which brought back memories of my dad and I going to the games together when I was little.

We passed several older couples that had been married for over 30 years and they said the thing that kept them together was their love for each other and their love for Alabama football.

We then talked to a guy that said "We've had season tickets for seven years and we've always been "ALA" in the cheer. Couldn't they change it up a bit?" There were so many laughs and times to reflect on games in the past. Seasons that came and went in an instant.

This is college football season. It's only here for a short time during the year. We look forward to the season starting for nine months and it never seems to last long enough.

ROLL TIDE!