The Day Before Arkansas; Which Is The Real Alabama Team?

The best review of Alabama to this point is to paraphrase Cal Ripken; we aren't as good as we looked (against Clemson) and we aren't as bad as we looked (against Tulane; although their East Carolina game may tell something too).

Many fans expect Alabama to win it all every year; but that just isn't practical for this year.  The offense must find a true identify and for now John Parker Wilson just gives the best chance to not lose a game. 

I look for Mark Ingram to take over more playing time at RB and Jones, Scott and Maze to become greater threats at wide receiver and the slot.  Andre Smith has recovered from his knee sprain so the offensive line is gelling into a strong group.  The true offense is still a year away when Star Johnson takes over and we go to a style of offense much like West Virginia.

The defense is helped with Prince Hall returning but the secondary has not shown it can stop a passing game.  The game against Arkansas will be the measuring point for that area for the remainder of the season.  Our punt returns will always be exciting with Arenas (Gilbert's cousin) being a threat to go all the way.

With Coach Saban we will be prepared and placed in the best position to win.  However; talent wise we still don't match LSU or Auburn, but that doesn't mean we won't compete for the West title. 

If we can put ourselves into position so that the Auburn game decides who goes to Atlanta, we will have had a great season and very likely will win that game.  I have been blasted by many Alabama fans that I'm not a true fan to think we aren't back this year.  I am a fan but I am a practical fan.

The Arkansas game is always exciting. With a win Alabama will have the momentum going to Athens next week.  Every week doesn't get any easier in the SEC, but Alabama must stay focused on the game at hand.  The excitement is back in Tuscaloosa and we are relevant once again.  That is a welcomed position considering where we have been the past ten years.

Roll Tide!!