Alabama Practice Report: Back In Full Pads

After a two week hiatus, the Crimson Tide was back in full pads on Saturday. Monday was day three. The players are shaking off the dust and oiling the squeaky joints. They are happy to be with each other and to be working out the game plan to compete against Texas for the National Championship.

While just a few of the high profile Alabama athletes were traveling about the country receiving individual awards for stellar seasons, the message on the return to campus was that these individual awards are truly team awards. The awards have been shared with the whole team.

The following is a re-cap of the press conferences from Saturday and Sunday at the Alabama practice facility.

Mark Ingram was sure to point out that not just the linemen, but the tight ends and receivers did their part, all season long, creating holes for all of the running backs, not just him. Ingram stated: "Without the effort from each player on the field, the running backs would not be able to accomplish their goals and make big runs. Every block is important."

McElroy was asked how much fun it was to reconnect and see the other players working together as a unit. On reflection of Saturday's practice, McElroy said: "It's tough right now, but the execution will come. It's just great to be back with everyone and see them smiling and having fun."

McElroy commented: "It's a one game season. We have 14 or 15 practices to get this thing right from ground zero. It's spring ball. We have been so blessed to have been given the opportunities we have had this season and we still have one more big opportunity."

Center William Vlachos praised the success of All-American and All-SEC, right guard, Mike Johnson: "He is very deserving, a great leader and worker. He leads by example. He has played every position and can tell each of us what we are doing wrong and what else we can do to be better."

Vlachos also commented on the benefit he has had all season to compete against All-American nosetackle, Terrence Cody. "Cody is not just a space eater, he knows how to use his hands and get off blocks, he's agile and and has great hands. He has made me become a better player."

Kareem Jackson was complimentary of the Texas team and their accomplishment this season. "They are an explosive team and we have to keep them from being explosive. It will be a real challenge."

Jackson was asked about his advisory letter for NFL eligibility. "I haven't received a reply, I am not even thinking about that right now. I will remain focused and when this game is over, I will look at that opportunity, then."

Saban was back at the podium, as well. With a fresh haircut, just off the recruiting trail, he commented that the players practiced hard and had an upbeat tempo. Drew Davis and Donta' Hightower were not at practice due to illness but they are day to day.

As far as the practice schedule, the Crimson Tide will break on the 23rd, reconvene on the 27th and practice until the 31st. After New Years, the team will arrive in Pasadena and have a normal week of practice in preparation for the National Championship game.

Players found it difficult to make direct flights to Pasadena. Direct flights are only available from Atlanta, Nashville, Memphis and Dallas. The team voted to take the Charter flight from the University to California. Because of this, the players will lose the NCAA travel stipend available for bowl games.

Saban indicated that the Alabama administration has made an appeal to the NCAA on behalf of the athletes in an attempt to recoup some of the cash benefit lost by the players. Saban was sure to point out to the media that this was a players decision, not an edict from the coaching staff or the administration.

The Texas players have received the stipend from the NCAA. Players make their own arrangements for travel and are able to pocket the extra cash.

After the National Championship game, the Alabama Crimson Tide will have five representatives for the team in the Senior Bowl, held on January 30. The game is played every year in Mobile, Alabama.

Seniors Mike Johnson, Javier Arenas, Terrence Cody, Leigh Tiffin and Colin Peek have been chosen for the post-season All-star game.