Endorsed by Chuck Norris & Christie Brinkley
Only have 20 minutes a day to get into shape?
Try Total Gym! The Total Gym XLS is the simple, safe and effective way to tone your body and boost overall fitness in as little as 20 minutes a day. The unique design of the Total Gym XLS works your major muscle groups at the same time, so you enjoy the results of a full workout in less time. It’s the perfect way for busy people to stay fit and feel great! • The Total Gym XLS is versatile, too – over 80 exercises to build, strengthen and tone your muscles • No assembly required – sets up in minutes and folds for easy storage
Try the Total Gym® for 30 days! ONLY $49.95 FREE SHIPPING! Call now for this special offer:
LOST
40 LBS!
1.866.696.1395 Ad provided by MediaBids.com. 1-866-236-2259.
“I am in the best shape I have ever been in, thanks to Total Gym!” - Joy Criss, Kentucky
ALL yOU NEEd STOREd IN ONE LOCATION. TuscaloosaChamber.com ACCESS The Chamber’s interactive calendar allowing members and visitors to search for and find information on a wide range of events, and even receive automated reminders.
PLUG IN to online business services. The Chamber’s website features a member’s only section that connects you to all you need to advance your business.
COVERING your business needs with features helpful to prospective, new and existing members.
STORE up on a wealth of economic, governmental, and community resources. Visit the site for our membership directory, area demographics, helpful business links, on-line training modules and more.
Tools That Mean Business.
What could you do with a Chamber membership? Log on to tuscaloosachamber.com to find out.
V&W Supply Company l vwsupply.com 3320 2nd Ave. South Birmingham l 205-324-9521 221 Industrial Park Dr. Pelham l 205-663-1336 711 21st Ave. Tuscaloosa l 205-758-8621
´&RPPLWWHG WR ([FHOOHQFH¾
Carlie Patton Broker 799.0639
Carol Barnette ABR 799.4432
Claudine Stimac GRI, ABR 792.5538
Representing our clients with complete honesty, loyalty and diligence.
Ann McGee 454.2316
Laura Rice 393.9102
0F)DUODQG %OYG ( ‡ 7XVFDORRVD $O 2IILFH ‡ )D[ ‡ ZZZ SDWWRQUHDOW\ FRP
Jimmy Watts 886.0065
September 5, 2009 | Volumn 2, Issue 2
In This Issue 8
President/Publisher
Pre-Game Preview
Staff
Editor-in-Chief
Mike Lacy
Managing Editor
10
Team Rosters
14
Announcer Profile
16
VT Interviews
17
Larry’s Lowdown
21
Billy Neighbors
22
Saban vs. Beamer
25
Player Spotlight
26
SEC News
29
Pride in the Tide
Photography
Bennie Bice
Jessica Temple BDL Rivals.com UA Media Dept. Virginia Tech Comm. Dept.
Creative Director Graphic Design Chief Information Officer Website Designer Public Relations Advertising Director Advertising Sales Accounting Department Marketing Department Contributing Writers
Jenifer McCormick Cassandra Johnson Tremayne Wright Brian LaShomb Carey Landon Katlyn Clark Drew Franklin Coe Robbins Herb Neu Doug Cate Kimberly Drake Alex Schroyer Ross Snyder Tremayne Wright Danny Glynn Kasey Coleman John Shamblin Larry Burton Jennifer Gorham Katie Koenig Brad Lake Jessie Landon Lauren Moranor Coe Robbins Dr. Donald F. Staffo
M U L T I M E D I A Next Issue • Tyrone Prothro • Stadium Expansion • Greg McElroy • 12 Burning Questions
Web Content • Post-Game Interviews • Game Footage • Press Conferences from Nick Saban • More From Larry Burton
Weekly Radio Show
• Coming Soon!
All content is the property of Touchdown Alabama Magazine. Touchdown Alabama Magazine reserves all rights to content in both the print and online (www.touchdownalabama.net) versions of the publication. No image or text may be reproduced without written consent from Touchdown Alabama Magazine.
Letter to the Editor
Last year was a magical and unpredictable season that none of the statewide journal-ists, reporters, broadcasters, or even the armchair quarterbacks (bloggers) saw coming. The Tide was the only team in the SEC to go undefeated in the regular season. I was impressed with the productivity of the freshmen. This will add to the strength of the overall team. One more year of playing time with a year of maturity. I like your first year’s coverage of the Crimson Tide football team. Well thought-out story ideas and player profiles each week really got me more into the game. I liked that you had the updated
roster in each issue. I look forward to seeing the magazine in its sophomore year. Best, Pat Brown, Birmingham Send Letters to: PO BOX 3251 TUSCALOOSA AL 35403-3251 205-701-1211 publish@tdalabama.com Advertising: ads@tdalabama.com
MISSION STATEMENT
“Touchdown Alabama Magazine was created to bring Alabama football fans the coverage of their team that they crave and expect, as well as to bring them closer to the action on the field. The University of Alabama has a long college football history, rich with tradition. Each season has added more dynamic players and colorful stories to the Alabama family. It is only fitting that a program with 12 National Championships should have a weekly magazine dedicated to conveying the excitement of the game to its devoted fans. Touchdown Alabama Magazine strives to be the most up-to-date, relevant and exciting magazine covering University of Alabama football. Furthermore, we guarantee in-depth articles, exclusive interviews and quality content surrounding the Crimson Tide. We will never forget who we generate this magazine for...you, the fan. God bless.” Bennie Bice, Publisher
Subscribe T oday! . . www touchdownalabama net
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
Alabama’s pass offense will surprise many in this game, but the key will be controlling the Hokies running game. I feel our linebackers are up to the task and will keep their offense of the field. Look for a big play by Javier Arenas in the returning game. >>Alabama 31-20 over Virginia Tech. Bennie Bice - Publisher
Alabama’s defense will control this game. The offense will tire the Hokies’ defense with our strong running game. Look for Alabama to put some serious pressure on the Virginia Tech’s special teams as well. >>Alabama 31-17 over Virginia Tech. Mike Lacy - Editor-in-Chief
This will be a close game. >>Alabama 21-14 over Virginia Tech. Herb Neu - Advertising Director
Alabama will prevail over Virginia Tech immediately at the outset. Nick Saban, along with Julio Jones and Javier Arenas, will definitely make this their running debut. Alabama will maintain a 14 point lead. >>Alabama 21-7 over Virginia Tech. Cassandra Johnson - Graphic Design I think it will be a repeat of last year opener. The team will be trying to make up for the bowl game and SEC Championship. >>Alabama 34-10 over Virginia Tech. Jessica Temple - Managing Editor touchdownalabama.net |
Pre-Game Preview
PRE-GAME Season opener to be defensive battle
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
PREVIEW O
Lauren Moranor
ne year ago, Alabama entered the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff Game ranked 24th in preseason polls. Playing a No. 9 Clemson, Alabama entered the game an underdog. After playing a completely dominating game, Alabama came out the winner and then went on to go 12-2 on the season, ranking No. 1 for over half of the season. This year there is a different story entering the Kickoff Game in Atlanta. Ranked No. 5 in the preseason, Alabama is entering the game with much hype surrounding the team. Coming into coach Nick Saban’s third year with the team, there are a lot of expectations to start the season. Playing No. 7 Virginia Tech, the game is going to be a battle of big defenses. Both teams are coming off of winning seasons and are only looking to capitalize off of the momentum gained during the last year. Alabama is coming back after losing key members of the offense. The team is without quarterback John Parker Wilson, offensive linemen Andre Smith and Antoine Caldwell and running back Glen Coffee. Junior Greg McElroy is beginning the season as the full-time starter for the first time in his career, having only played in eight games at UA. Also back on offense is top wide receiver Julio Jones, who set every freshman receiving record at Alabama last year and sophomore runningback Mark Ingram, who had a team high of 12 rushing touchdowns last season. Alabama will have another tough
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BDL
defense this year, lead by defensive tackle Terrence Cody, junior linebacker Rolando McClain and senior Javier Arenas. Virginia Tech ended last season with a 10-4 record after beating No. 12 Cincinnati in the Orange Bowl. However, the team will begin the game having lost star running back and team-leading rusher Darren Evans to a torn left ACL. Evans set several school records last season. Coach Frank Beamer is back with seven returning starters and another top-ranked defense. Junior quarterback Tyrod Taylor is returning to lead the offense. Taylor was the top rusher among quarterbacks in the ACC last season. Sophomore wide receiver Jarrett Boykin is back and looking to have another successful season. The game will be a fight between two top-ranked defenses. Last season, Alabama ranked third in total defense while Virginia Tech ranked seventh. Alabama also ranked seventh, while Virginia Tech ranked ninth, in scoring defense. Both teams are returning with most of their defenses still in tacked. The test for Alabama will be the changes on the offensive line after losing important players and how McElroy reacts to being the starter. ESPN will be making the game their first stop of College Gameday. Alabama will be looking to start this season off just like last year with a win at the Georgia Dome in the season opener. Virginia Tech is looking to cause an upset and knockoff one of the top teams in the nations.
touchdownalabama.net |
alaabama Roster 10
NO
NAME
POS
CL
82 32 28 49 4 7 44 86 93 67 88 87 77 99 62 57 16 79 96 95 51 85 40 13 97 76 58 11 6 29 33 23 34 15 54 5 30 40 22 3 2 24 78 35 75 8 26 36 81 20 21 42
Earl Alexander WR Jr. Eryk Anders LB Sr. Javier Arenas DB Sr. Jonathan Atchison LB Fr. Mark Barron DB So. Kenny Bell WR Fr. Alex Benson LB Sr. Undra Billingsley TE Fr. Chris Bonds DL Fr. John Michael Boswell OL So. Michael Bowman WR Fr. Drew Bullard LB Jr James Carpenter OL Jr. Josh Chapman DL So. Terrence Cody DL Sr. Marcell Dareus DL So. Thomas Darrah QB So. Drew Davis OL Sr. Luther Davis DL Jr. Brandon Deaderick DL Sr. Michael DeJohn LB Jr. Preston Dial TE Ir. DeMarcus DuBose LB So. Rob Ezell WR Jr. P.J. Fitzgerald P Sr. D.J. Fluker OL Fr. Nick Gentry DL So. Brandon Gibson WR So. Demetrius Goode RB So. Terry Grant RB Jr. Hampton Gray DB Sr. Robby Green DB So. Jeramie Griffin RB So. Darius Hanks WR So. Glenn Harbin DL Fr. Jerrell Harris LB So. Dont’a Hightower LB So. Baron Huber RB/TE Sr. Mark Ingram RB So. Kareem Jackson DB Jr. Star Jackson QB Fr. Marquis Johnson DB Sr. Mike Johnson OL Sr. Nico Johnson LB Fr. Barrett Jones OL R-Fr. Julio Jones WR So. Phelon Jones DB So. Chris Jordan LB So. Kendall Kelly WR Fr. Tyrone King DB Sr. Dre Kirkpatrick DB Fr. Eddie Lacy RB Fr.
HT
WT
HOMETOWN / LAST SCHOOL
6-4 6-2 5-9 6-2 6-2 6- 1 6- 1 6-2 6-4 6-5 6-4 6-3 6-5 6-1 6-5 6-4 6-5 6-7 6-3 6-4 6- 1 6-3 6-1 5-10 5-11 6-6 6-1 6-2 5-9 5-10 6- 2 6-0 6-2 6-0 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-4 5-10 6-0 6-3 5-11 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-4 5-11 6-3 6-3 5-11 6-3 6-0
212 235 195 220 214 160 225 276 280 306 210 238 300 313 354 296 227 306 275 306 241 233 232 170 204 340 264 192 191 190 196 181 224 184 257 227 255 263 212 193 206 191 303 225 289 211 195 230 216 203 185 210
Phenix City, AL/Central San Antonio, TX/Smithson Valley Tampa, FL/Robinson Atlanta, GA/Douglass Mobile, AL/St. Paul’s Rayville, LA/Rayville Trussville, AL/Hewitt-Trussville Birmingham, AL/Woodlawn Columbia, SC/Richland Northeast HS Northport, AL/Tuscaloosa County Rossville, GA/Ridgeland Florence, AL/Florence Augusta, GA/Hephzibah Hoover, AL/Hoover Ft. Myers, FL/Gulf Coast C.C. Huffman, AL/Huffman Newnan, GA/Newnan Evergreen, AL/Sparta Academy West Monroe, LA/West Monroe Elizabethtown, KY/Elizabethtown Hoover, AL/Hoover Mobile, AL/UMS-Wright Montgomery, AL/Jefferson Davis Athens, AL/Athens Coral Springs, FL/Stoneman Douglas Foley, AL/Foley Prattville, AL/Prattville Mobile, AL/UMS-Wright LaGrange, GA/Hargrave Lumberton, MS/Lumberton Northport, AL/Tuscaloosa County New Orleans, LA/John Curtis Christian Batesville, MS/South Panola Norcross, GA/Norcross Mobile, AL/McGill-Toolen Gadsden, AL/Gadsden City Lewisburg, TN/Marshall County Knoxville, TN/Powell Flint, MI/Southwestern Academy Macon, GA//Fork Union Military Lake Worth, FL/Lake Worth Sarasota, FL/Booker Pensacola, FL/Pine Forest Andalusia, AL/Andalusia Memphis, TN/Evangelica Christian Foley, AL/Foley Mobile, AL/LSU/McGill-Toolen Brentwood, TN/Brentwood Academy Gadsden, AL/Gadsden City Birmingham, AL/Grambling State/Minor Gadsden, AL/Gadsden City Geismar, LA/Dutchtown
NAME
POS
37 72 33 4 10 25 80 52 12 56 59 66 64 46 83 18 2 84 39 68 54 13 3 8 74 1 46 50 94 26 94 48 71 17 92 61 47 90 99 51 87 5 41 73 65 97 91 55 60 89 9 27 18
Robert Lester DB Tyler Love 0L Mike Marrow RB-HB Marquis Maze WR A.J. McCarron QB Rolando McClain LB Mike McCoy WR Alfred McCullough OL Greg McElroy QB William Ming DL Brandon Moore DL Brian Motley OL Kerry Murphy DL Wesley Neighbors DB Kevin Norwood WR Morgan Ogilvie QB Tana Patrick LB Colin Peek TE Kyle Pennington DB Taylor Pharr OL Russell Rains OL Cory Reamer LB Trent Richardson RB Chris Rogers DB David Ross OL B.J. Scott DB Chris Scott WR Brian Selman SNP Darrington Sentimore DL Ali Sharrief DB Jeremy Shelley PK Travis Sikes WR Allen Skelton OL Brad Smelley TE Damion Square DL Anthony Steen OL-DL Ed Stinson LB-DL Milton Talbert DL Leigh Tiffin PK Carson Tinker ST Chris Underwood TE Roy Upchurch RB Courtney Upshaw LB William Vlachos OL Chance Warmack OL Lorenzo Washington DL Alex Watkins LB Chavis Williams LB David Williams OL Michael Williams TE Nick Williams WR Justin Woodall DB Rod Woodson DB
CL Fr. R-Fr. Fr. So. Fr. Ir. Sr. So. Jr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr. So. Fr. So. Fr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Jr. So. So. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Sr. So. So. Sr. So. Jr Fr. Sr. So. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Fr.
HT 6-2 6-6 6-2 5-10 6-4 6-4 6-3 6-2 6-3 6-3 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-1 6-2 6-0 6-3 6-6 5-11 6-6 6-2 6-4 5-11 6-0 6-3 5-11 5-11 6-0 6-3 5-9 5-10 6-3 6-1 6-3 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-2 6-1 6-4 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-3 6-6 5-10 6-2 5-11
WT 207 303 240 179 190 255 215 305 220 260 310 291 323 210 180 195 235 255 188 290 260 234 220 190 299 196 170 210 280 200 170 198 265 233 272 305 240 275 212 220 231 205 249 294 301 290 225 223 272 266 165 221 200
HOMETOWN / LAST SCHOOL Foley, AL/Foley Mountain Brook, AL/Mountain Brook Holland, OH/Central Catholic Birmingham, AL/Tarrant Mobile, AL/Saint Paul’s Episcopal School Decatur, AL/Decatur Rankin, MS/Northwest Athens, AL/Athens Southlake, TX/Southlake Carroll Athens, AL/Athens Montgomery, AL/Carver Autaugaville, AL/Autaugaville Hoover, AL/Hargrave/Hoover Huntsville, AL/Huntsville D’lberville, MS/DiIberville Mountain Brook, AL/Mountain Brook Bridgeport, AL/North Jackson Ponte Vedra Beach, FL/Georgia Tech/Bolles Chatom, AL/Washington County Irondale, AL/Shades Valley Satsuma, AL/SaWuma Hoover, AL/Hoover Pensacola, FL/Escambia Lakeland, FL/Evangel Christian Homewood, AL/Homewood Prichard, AL/Vigor Birmingham, AL/Ramsay Vestavia Hills, AL/Vestavia Hills Norco, LA/Destrehan Stevenson, AL/North Jackson Raleigh, N.C./Broughton Nashville, TN/Christ Presbyterian Coker, AL/Tuscaloosa County Tuscaloosa, AL/American Christian Houston, TX/Yates Lambert, MS/Lee Academy Homestead, FL/South Dade Hattiesburg, MS/Hattiesburg Muscle Shoals, AL/Muscle Shoals Murfreesboro, TN/Riverdale Birmingham, AL/Vestavia Hills Tallahassee, FL/Godby Eufaula, AL/Eufaula Birmingham, AL/Mountain Brook Atlanta, GA/Westlake Logansville, GA/Hargrave Brownsville, TN/Haywood Dora, AL/Dora Duncanville, AL/Hillcrest Reform, AL/Pickens County Fort Lauderdale, FL/St. Thomas Aquinas Oxford, MS/Lafayette Olfve Branch, MS/Olive Branch
alaabama Roster
NO
11
virginia tech Roster 12
NO
NAME
POS
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 41 42 43 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 59 60 62 63 64
Davon Morgan ROV Logan Thomas QB David Wilson TB Tyrod Taylor QB Jason Worilds DE Marcus Davis SE Greg Boone TE Cris Hill CB Dyrell Roberts FL Ju-Ju Clayton QB Randall Dunn TE Lorenzo Williams FS Eddie Whitley CB Jeff Beyer QB Kam Chancellor FS Sam Wheeler TE Danny Coale FL Kenny Lewis, Jr. TB Rashad Carmichael CB Stephan Virgil CB Matt Reidy ROV Dorian Porch ROV Josh Oglesby TB Cody Grimm LB Joey Phillips FB Alonzo Tweedy LB Xavier Boyce SE Brian Saunders P Kenny Younger FB Darren Evans TB Chris Drager DE Ryan Williams TB Austin Fuller SE Jake Johnson LB Jacob Sykes CB Quillie Odom 1 LB Lyndell Gibson LB Cam Martin LB Kenny Jefferson FB Jeron Gouveia-Winslow LB Joe Jones DT Zac Evans TB Nekos Brown DE Justin Myer PK Matt Waldron 3 PK Collin Carroll SN Bruce Taylor LB Barquell Rivers LB Dwight Tucker DT Nick Becton OT Isaiah Hamlette DE Demetrius Taylor DT Courtney Prince DT Beau Warren C Blake DeChristopher OT Matt Tuttle SN Richard Graham OG
CL
HT
WT
HOMETOWN / LAST SCHOOL
JR FR FR JR JR FR SR SO SO FR FR SO SO SR SR SR SO SR JR SR SR SR SO SR FR FR FR JR JR SO SO FR FR SO SO SO FR SR SR FR FR FR SR SO SR SO FR SO FR FR FR SR FR JR SO SR SR
6’ 0” 6’ 6” 5’ 10” 6’ 1” 6’ 2” 6’ 4” 6’ 3” 5’ 11” 6’ 2” 6’ 1” 6’ 2” 6’ 2” 6’ 1” 6’ 5” 6’ 4” 6’ 3” 6’ 0” 5’ 9” 5’ 11” 5’ 11” 6’ 1” 5’ 11” 5’ 11” 5’ 11” 5’ 11” 6’ 2” 6’ 4” 6’ 0” 6’ 0” 6’ 0” 6’ 3” 5’ 10” 6’ 2” 6’ 1” 6’ 0” 6’ 1” 5’ 10” 6’ 1” 5’ 10” 6’ 2” 6’ 2” 5’ 10” 6’ 2” 6’ 1” 5’ 11” 6’ 3” 6’ 2” 6’ 0” 6’ 1” 6’ 6” 6’ 4” 6’ 0” 6’ 3” 6’ 3” 6’ 5” 6’ 0” 6’ 6”
196 233 200 216 262 236 283 183 190 208 223 215 183 227 230 259 206 198 186 189 217 209 210 210 215 186 223 199 223 218 249 206 218 231 193 233 220 209 240 200 250 192 248 210 198 240 237 237 280 311 245 273 270 288 313 229 306
Richmond, Va. / Varina Lynchburg, Va. / Brookville Danville, Va. / George Washington Hampton, Va. / Hampton Carteret, N.J. / Carteret Virginia Beach, Va.Ocean Lakes Chesapeake, Va. / Oscar Smith Richmond, Va. / Highland Springs Smithfield, Va. / Smithfield Richmond, Va. / Hermitage Virginia Beach, Va. / Ocean Lakes Fayetteville, N.C. / Westover Matthews, N.C. / Butler Fairfax, Va. / W.T. Woodson Norfolk, Va. / Maury Blacksburg, Va. / Blacksburg Lexington, Va. / Episcopal Danville, Va. / George Washington Clinton, Md. / Gwynn Park Rocky Mount, N.C. / Rocky Mount Gaithersburg, Md. / Damascus Calhoun, Ga. / Gordon Central Garner, N.C. / Garner Fairfax, Va. / Oakton Blacksburg, Va. / Blacksburg Richmond, Va. / Hermitage Virginia Beach, Va. / Landstown Roseland, Va. / Nelson County Richmond, Va. / Mills Godwin Indianapolis, Ind. / Warren Central Jefferson Hills, Pa. / Thomas Jefferson Manassas, Va. / Stonewall Jackson Richlands, Va. / Richlands Fredericksburg, Va. / Stafford Goldsboro, N.C. / Goldsboro Manassas, Va. / Osbourn Park Virginia Beach, Va. / Salem Martinsville, Va. / George Washington Port Tobacco, Md. / DeMatha Catholic Ashburn, Va. / Stone Bridge Virginia Beach, Va. / Green Run Christiansburg, Va. / Christiansburg Brandywine, Md. / Thomas Stone Manheim, Pa. / Manheim Central Oakfield, N.Y. / Oakfield-Alabama Hopkins, Minn. / Edina Myrtle Beach, S.C. / Myrtle Beach Wadesboro, N.C. / Anson County Oviedo, Fla. / Oviedo Wilmington, N.C. / New Hanover Stafford, Va. / Brooke Point Virginia Beach, Va. / Kellam Mitchellville, Md. / Gwynn Park Clifton, Va. / Centreville Midlothian, Va. / Clover Hill Chesapeake, Va. / Nansemond-Suffolk Acad.
Richmond, Va. / St. Christopher’s
NAME
POS
65 67 68 70 71 72 75 77 80 81 82 83 85 86 87 88 90 91 93 94 95 97 98 99
Matt Baldwin OG Michael Via C Jaymes Brooks OG Sergio Render OG Vinston Painter OT Andrew Lanier OT Greg Nosal OT/G Ed Wang OT Brandon Dillard FL Jarrett Boykin SE Steven Friday DE Patrick Terry FL Rob Stanton TE Eric Martin TE Prince Parker TE Andre Smith TE D.J. Coles SE John Graves DT Kwamaine Battle DT Mark Muncey LB Cordarrow Thompson DT Brent Bowden P Antoine Hopkins DT Jeff Wardach DE Ben Barber FL Tyler Barfield OG Jim Brown OG Josh Call FB Telvion Clark LB Wll Cole QB J.R. Collins DE Ron Cooper CB Ethan Dickerson LS Josh Eadie DE Tariq Edwards LB Zac Evans TB Antone Exum FS Darian Fisher OT James Gayle DE Bo Gentry C Tony Gregory FL James Hopper CB Jayron Hosley CB Cody Journell K Zach Luckett LB Andrew Miller C Germond Oatneal CB Nubian Peak FL Duan Perez-Means DE Joey Phillips FB Tim Richardson LB Martin Scales ROV Nick Sheehan FS Jack Tyler LB David Wang OG Jerrodd Williams CB Tyrel Wilson DE
CL
HT
SO FR SO SR FR SO SO SR SR SO JR SO JR FR JR JR FR JR SO SR SR SR FR SO FR FR FR FR FR FR FR JR FR JR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR JR FR SO FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR FR
6’ 6” 6’ 7” 6’ 2” 6’ 3” 6’ 6” 6’ 5” 6’ 6” 6’ 5” 5’ 11” 6’ 2” 6’ 4” 5’ 11” 6’ 5” 6’ 2” 6’ 6” 6’ 5” 6’ 3” 6’ 3” 6’ 0” 5’ 11” 6’ 2” 6’ 3” 6’ 0” 6’ 3” 5-11 6-1 6-3 5-10 6-1 6-0 6-3 5-10 5-10 6-4 6-2 5-10 5-11 6-4 6-4 5-9 6-0 5-9 5-10 5-11 6-3 6-4 5-11 5-11 6-3 5-11 5-10 5-11 6-1 5-11 6-1 6-0 6-1
WT
HOMETOWN / LAST SCHOOL
299 Oakwood, Va. / Twin Valley 284 McLeansville, N.C. / NE Guilford 300 Newport News, Va. / Denbigh 313 Newnan, Ga. / Newnan 322 Norfolk, Va. / Maury 279 Moore, S.C. / Dorman 284 Virginia Beach, Va. / Kellam 309 Ashburn, Va. / Stone Bridge 176 Martinsville, Va. / Bassett 215 Matthews, N.C. / Butler 240 Hampton, Va / Phoebus 190 South Boston, Va. / Halifax Co. 236 Richlands, Va. / Richlands 256 Woodbridge, Va. / C.D. Hylton 25 Norfolk, Va. / Maury 268 Germantown, Md. / Seneca Valley 223 Maidens, Va. / Goochland 277 Richmond, Va. / Meadowbrook 281 Spring Hope, N.C. / S. Nash 218 Tazewell, Va. / Tazewell 301 Stafford, Va. / North Stafford 206 Centreville, Va. / Westfield 301 Highland Springs, Va. / Highland Springs 248 Roanoke, Va. / Cave Spring 215 Alexandria, Va. / Edison 286 Herndon, Va. / Westfield 314 Richmond, Va. / Clover Hill 237 Raleigh, N.C. / Woodberry Forest 217 Norfolk, Va. / Granby 191 Bluefield, W.Va. / Bluefield 230 Stafford, Va. / Brooke Point 191 Richmond, Va. / Meadowbrook 189 Christiansburg, Va. / Christiansburg 227 Lynchburg, Va. / Brookville 229 Cheraw, S.C. / Marlboro County 192 Christiansburg, Va. / Christiansburg 209 Glen Allen, Va. / Deep Run 243 Virginia Beach, Va. / First Colonial 232 Hampton, Va. / Bethel 239 Blacksburg, Va. / Blacksburg 179 Virginia Beach, Va. / First Colonial 179 Fayetteville, N.C. / Seventy-First 170 Delray Beach, Fla. / Atlantic 179 Ripplemead, Va. / Giles 209 Mays Landing, N.J. / Holy Spirit 288 Bassett, Va. Bassett 179 Upper Marlboro, Md. / Bishop McNamara 176 Radford, Va. Pulaski County 227 Richmond, Va. / Hermitage 215 Blacksburg, Va. / Blacksburg 245 Hampton, Va. / Hampton 193 Martinsville, Va. / Bassett 204 Round Hill, Va. / Stone Bridge 218 Oakton, Va. / Oakton 300 Ashburn, Va / Stone Bridge 190 Central, S.C. / D.W. Daniel 206 Hampton, Va. / Hampton
virginia tech Roster
NO
13
The Man Beh Exclusive
Jessie Landon
“Nobody ever comes to an event to hear an announcer, and that’s the way it should be. If I have done the right thing, then people leave with an enhanced knowledge of what’s going on and hopefully a boost of excitement from what the athletes did,” explains Tony Giles, the voice behind numerous University of Alabama athletic teams. “My goal is to cast a spotlight on the athletes and if I can do that, that is the best accomplishment I can achieve.” The announcer for any sporting event should provide key elements for the atmosphere of the game. Giles adds color and energy to Alabama football, men’s basketball and gymnastics events. He believes and enjoys that he is a crucial component of the home team advantage. “I want to be part of the home court advantage. I don’t believe that would be unfair,” he said. Giles appreciates each event he announces for but refuses to choose a favorite. “They all have their distinct exciting elements,” he explained. “It would be impossible to choose one over the other. The excitement of the stadium with over 93 thousand people is impossible to describe. The pace of the basketball games is exciting and presents its own challenges. You have to stay in the game in its own way. The explosiveness of the gymnastics meets only gives you a few minutes. You are constantly moving from event to event to event. They all have special ways that they are exciting to me and they all have exciting challenges for me to overcome.” He also recognizes the impact he has on the fans and athletes in all of the events he announces. “You know, he is really the voice of Alabama. Eli Gold is incredible, but there is only one way to say ‘This is Alabama football!’ Who would not want to live the dream of
14
announcing for the greatest university in the greatest country in the world?” said Parker Denson, a fan of Giles as well as the pep band conductor for men’s basketball games and gymnastics meets. “I have only met him and talked with him a few times, but I genuinely enjoy listening to the man, myth, and legend at any of the events. The games wouldn’t the same without hearing him describe the tasty barbeque nachos and refreshing Coca-Cola Classic.” “If I have an impact I think it would be on the crowd, rather than the team,” claimed Giles. “I think my job is to encourage the team, to help support the team in any way I can.”
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
Kimmie Houghton, a student of the University of Alabama, does not attend every home game, even though she lives a measly few blocks from Bryant-Denny Stadium. “Sometimes I like to open my front door and listen to the game from far away,” she said. “It is exhilarating to hear our announcer shout ‘Touchdown Alabama!’ from Bryant-Denny before the announcer on the television does. I will never forget the games I could hear, but couldn’t see.” Chris Rogers, a defensive back and member of special teams for the Crimson Tide football team disagrees that the fans are the only ones affected by Giles’ bold voice. “It feels good to be recognized.
ind the Voice You bless and thank God for the opportunity because a majority of us [on the team] came [to the University] for football. It’s just a blessing. Hearing your name makes you proud and you know everyone back home is proud, because of everything you’ve been through to get there,” Rogers said, as he described the feelings associated with hearing his name in Bryant-Denny Stadium. Giles “wants all of the athletes to get the recognition they deserve, whether it is our team or the visiting team.” For Giles, being disrespectful is his greatest fear. “I would not want, in any event that I cover, for people from our team or the other team to leave the arena thinking that we had been disrespectful,” Giles said. Respect constantly swims within his mind, throughout his preparation and all of his performances. “Part of being respectful [during an event] is getting someone’s name right. When a name is particularly unusual, I will write it down phonetically. I like to talk to the athlete and hear them say their name. If that isn’t possible, I will speak to coaches or staff. I like to do it by sound. We want to get it right. Sometimes it’s the ones that look obvious that are the ones that can trip you up the most.” Many athletic fans expect their teams to prepare for an event with practice, weight training and more, but may forget to consider how much preparation goes into announcing a sporting event. “Throughout the week [prior to the game], I have contact with people in marketing, coaching, etc., to get information about the visiting teams. Later, I have direct contact with a representative of the visiting team to receive information like the roster and injuries. I also watch tape of previous events. I then have conversations with representatives from Alabama for any changes in our own roster.” Just like the athletes need time to PHOTOGRAPHY BY UA MEDIA DEPT
prepare and warm up on the day of the event, so does Giles. “I try to get to the event with plenty of time on game day to confer with people in marketing and the people involved with the sport,” he explains. “If it’s necessary, I will rehearse some elements that will come up in the show.” No amount of preparation can compare to talent and experience, and for Giles, it’s in his blood; something he calls “natural progress.” His father, Bob, was involved with radio, which gave Giles early exposure to the industry. At 13, he began working at a station in Central Florida, and he said, “It just became something I did. I’m thankful that I had early leadership, guidance and opportunities.” After he graduated from high school, Giles ventured back to his home state, Alabama. He enrolled at the University of Alabama and became a member of New College, where he created his own concentration: broadcast. Giles has worked in television, radio and commercial production in Birmingham, but has changed his career path since then. He is now a financial advisor and
branch manager for Morgan Stanley of Birmingham, but proudly proclaims, “I’ve got the greatest part-time job in America.” Giles has been shared his booming voice and powerful charisma with the men’s basketball team for 23 seasons, 17 for the gymnastics team and 13 for the football team. Many fans wonder how it is possible to become an announcer and Giles merely passes it off to being the lucky one on the short list. “I was involved with the athletic department while I was a student and I was simply invited to [announce] for the men’s basketball team. I wish there was more I could tell you, but it just happened that way,” he chuckled. “I am happy they chose me from the short list. I have had the opportunity to do all kinds of events and I try to approach every event as the most important event I have ever done. If I ever stop feeling excited before any event, then it will be time for me to stop. It is a dream of doing a perfect event, where everything is done right and the home team wins.”
touchdownalabama.net |
15
Interviews
Views From the Other Side Katie Koenig
C
Cody Grimm
ody Grimm, starting linebacker for Virginia Tech, said he spent his off-season working on his strength and speed as a player, as well as studying film to prepare for this season. And boy, did he have a lot to prepare for. Grimm played in both the 2008 and 2009 Orange bowls, as well as the ACC Championship game the past two years, but Grimm says he has never been involved in a season opener of this magnitude. He said he is typically a pretty calm guy before games and spends time mentally reviewing what has to do on the field. He said he has no special mental preparations he goes through before big games like the one against Alabama this week, when he will walk onto the field in front of a sold-out crowd in the Georgia Dome. Grimm said he realizes the winner of this game may be thrown into the national spotlight for this season, but he is adopting the view of his coach, Frank Beamer. “This game doesn’t make or break our season,” Grimm said, parroting Beamer’s quotes about the Alabama game. Grimm added that he’d much rather win, but losing won’t end the season. Grimm said he also has his interpretation of “Beamer ball.” “Beamer ball is aggressive explosiveness, while using your head on special teams,” Grimm said. Grimm said that it’s hard to predict how the game will go since it is the first game of the season. He said he did have a few ideas of what may decide the game, though. “Turnovers are always a big deal,” Grimm said. “Both teams are known for their defenses.” Grimm said he also thought it would come down to field position. As far as Grimm’s perception of Alabama fans, he said he thought they were a great fan base.
16
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
V
Tyrod Taylor
irginia Tech’s starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor said he is adopting Beamer’s mindset about the game, but he said he and his team do realize what’s at stake. Taylor said winning the game would have benefits for the team as far as getting them more respect and national exposure, as well as giving the team added confidence. “The guys on the team are confident and ready to play,” Taylor said. Taylor said he spent the summer working on his role as quarterback for his team. He said he watched film with his father and studied how he could improve his skills. After some criticism of his playing last year, Taylor said he focused during the off-season on going back to the fundamentals. He said he is feeling more confident and is getting the ball off quicker. Taylor said he sees this Alabama team as a talented and fast group. He said the two groups “match up talent-wise very well.” Taylor said as quarterback he’s not on any of the special teams that Beamer holds so important, but he doesn’t forget how important they are. “Special teams are a big deal to us because that can make or break your game,” Taylor said. Taylor said he doesn’t have any special ritual he will do or good luck charm for the game against Alabama. He said he will just pray before the game, as he has since he was young, and be thankful for the chance to get out there and play. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RIVALS.COM (L) and VIRGINIA TECH ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS (R)
Larry Burton
LARRY’S -08%08/
Larry Burton
2009 Is A Season That Will Answer Questions
H
as Alabama really turned the corner? Is Alabama going to follow the cycle since the early 90’s by following every 10 win or better season with another drop? Does Alabama have a nucleus of players now to win a national championship? These and more are the questions Tide fans may very well be wondering at the start of this season. Each coach at Alabama since Gene Stallings won the last title in 1992 has won at least 10 games in a season, only to follow that with a dismal season. Fans have heard that “Bama’s Back” only to be disappointed. George Santayana said all the way back in the early 1900s, “Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Nick Saban is a man who not only has learned from history, but learned to write his own. Many wonder how Greg McElroy can
fare as a first year starter with so much of the Tide’s hopes depending on his play. To be in the glare of the nation as the starting quarterback of Alabama is tough, to do it without previous starts is tougher. So how will these questions be answered? With back to back number one recruiting classes and at least another top five class this year, Alabama is paving a four lane highway to the future. To be a consistent winner in college football today, you have to have talent, and the Tide will be putting better players on the field for quite some time to come. Though this is only the start of Saban’s third season, there is an air of stability in the program that hasn’t existed for quite some time. Saban has a core of assistants who all sing from the same hymnal with him, have shown great coaching and recruiting skills and are the kind of men that the players have no trouble forming bonds with. Greg McElroy may be in his first year
as a starter, but he has history on his side. In high school he never started a game until his senior year, but broke all his school records and led them to a title game victory. Can he do that once again? This year’s team may have a few players with less game-time experience than recent teams, but Alabama has not had a team with this much raw talent in over a decade. This group could very well be the nucleus of a team that can bring home a national championship. But will they? One thing is for sure, that this first game against a tough West Virginia Hokie team will certainly go a long way in starting to answer some of these questions. This could truly be the year and this could truly be the team that will answer all the questions that Tide fans have been asking for quite a few years now, and they may just like the answer they receive.
KATIE FARMS From our fields to your table
Organically Grown Heirloom Vegetables Select from many varieties of farm-fresh fruits, produce and nutritious free range eggs! Cell: 205.535.0066 Home: 205.333.9686 Fax: 205.752.4145
Jon Fleenor Bill George Road Coker, Alabama
touchdownalabama.net |
17
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BDL
Recruiting
The Pr Coe Robbins QB Phillip Sims 6’2” 209, Chesapeake, Va. - Oscar Smith defeated Florida powerhouse Venice 27-13 on ESPNU with help from Sims who completed 265 yards of passing on a 15-of-19 campaign with one touchdown. Rivals No. 1 rated QB has garnered scholarship offers from all over the country but is still a very strong commit to Alabama. Sims has two 3,000 yard seasons and has thrown 33 touchdowns as a sophomore and 38 as a junior. RB Corey Grant 5’10” 186, Opelika, Ala. - Grant ran for 156 yards and three touchdowns as Opelika demolished Sidney Lanier 28-0. Grant runs a 4.4 forty with a 37-inch vertical and bench presses 290 pounds. Grant has said that the coaching staff wants to utilize him in many ways because of his speed mainly as a returner. With Javier Arenas departing next year, he could make an immediate impact come 2010. WR Keiwone Malone 6’1” 165, Memphis, Tenn. - Malone grabbed six passes for 102 yards and was Chad Ochocincoesque nailing two PATs as Mitchell beat Kirby 34-14. Malone was the first commitment out of the 2010 class who had offers from Georgia and Tennessee, among others. Malone had 1,400 yards and 19 touchdowns as a junior. TE Brian Vogler 6’7” 248, Columbus, Ga. - Brookstone defeated Landmark Christian 31-17 while Vogler had a tremendous game, catching three passes for 102 yards which included a 62-yard touchdown. Take away the score and his other two catches still averaged 20 yards. Vogler was a highly-touted tight end who had offers from Oklahoma, Florida State, Miami and others. Vogler had 21 grabs for 465 yards and 6 touchdowns as a junior. DE Wilson Love 6’4” 235, Birmingham, Ala. - Mountain Brook destroyed Thompson 34-7 with the help from Love who had nine tackles and two sacks. Love had offers from all over the country, not just because of his athleticism but his smarts as well. Love received offers from
20
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
cess Week 1
Duke, Stanford, Vanderbilt, Clemson and others but decided to follow in his brother’s footsteps Tyler Love and sign with the Tide. DB Demarcus Milliner 6’1” 180, Millbrook, Ala. - Stanhope Elmore High lost a close one to Hewitt-Trussville 28-21 while Milliner had 10 tackles for the game. The state’s top ranked prospect and No. 1 CB in the country by Rivals runs a 4.45 forty and benches 240 pounds. K Cade Foster 6’1” 215, Southlake, Tx. - Southlake didn’t need any of Foster’s help kicking as they defeated Plano West 49-20. Foster was perfect however, going 7-for-7 on PATs. As a junior, Foster was perfect inside of 50 yards who finished on last year’s season 6-of-9. Foster also had offers from Miami, Stanford and Washington. P Jay Williams 6’4” 220, Thomasville, Ala. - Williams averaged 47.4 yards on five punts as Thomasville won 21-19. Williams had offers from Florida and Houston before committing to the Tide. Williams is rated the No. 24 kicker prospect in the country by Rivals. Notes courtesy of Rivals.com
Dr. Staffo Interview
Catching Up With
Billy Neighbors Dr. Donald F. Staffo
B
illy Neighbors was a two-way tackle and co-captain on Paul “Bear” Bryant’s first national championship team in 1961. An allconference performer who was named the top lineman in the SEC and the Most Valuable Player in the Senior Bowl, Neighbors was a consensus All-American who would later be named to Alabama’s All-Decade Team of the 1960s, the Crimson Tide’s All-Century Team, and in 2003 capped an outstanding collegiate career by being elected to the College Football Hall of Fame. Neighbors reflected on his days growing up a country boy hitch-hiking everywhere he went, his days playing for Bryant, and his eight-year career in the NFL with the Boston Patriots and Miami Dolphins. “I had scholarship (offers) from Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, Texas, from everybody, but the only place I wanted to go was Alabama,” stated Neighbors, who was recruited by Crimson Tide coach Red Drew and arrived at the Capstone in 1959, a year before Bryant returned to his alma mater. “I’d never heard of Paul Bryant (before he became coach), but it didn’t take me long to figure out who he was,” stated Neighbors. “The first thing he said to me was, ‘you’ve got to lose weight.’ Then he sent me a letter that said that I had to come back at 220 pounds and be able to run a six-minute mile. I came back at 217 pounds and ran a 5:55 mile. “Coach Bryant used all kinds of ways to motivate us, and one of them was fear,” related Neighbors. “There were 118 freshmen (football players) when I came here. Two and a half years later there were only eight of us left. Coach Bryant PHOTOGRAPHY BY UA MEDIA DEPT.
worked us to death. It was Junction (the brutal preseason training camp that Bryant made famous when he was at Texas A&M), but it was Junction here,” stated Neighbors, who said that he played every play on offense, on defense and on special teams. “I didn’t have too many conversations with (Coach Bryant) all the while I was there, to tell you the truth. Whenever I saw him coming, I went the other way.” Neighbors not only survived Bryant’s grueling training methods, he thrived on them, going on to make the AFL All-Star Team in 1962 and become a three-time All-Pro while playing in the NFL from 1962 to 1969. “Playing here changed my life,” stated Neighbors, who pointed out that when he played, Alabama shut-out Auburn three straight times (10-0, 3-0, and 34-0). “Auburn never scored a point on us,” he stated proudly. “The turning point to us winning the national championship was when we beat Auburn 34-0. Then we beat Arkansas 10-3 in the Sugar Bowl. The best thing that ever happened to me was when we won the national championship. I’ve got the University of Alabama to thank for that,” Neighbors said. Neighbors recalled the journey he took from growing up in Taylorville, graduating from Tuscaloosa County High School, and going on to play professional football. “I went from Taylorville to New
York City, where I was on the Ed Sullivan Show and the Bob Hope Show,” he said. “Being from Taylorville I had never been on an airplane before, I’d never seen an escalator before, I’d never seen doors that opened by themselves before,” he said. “I was just a country boy playing in New York City, in Boston, in San Francisco, and in those other big cities. But those were just Sunday afternoons. Except for that, I’d rather been right here,” said Neighbors, one of several in his family who have played for the Crimson Tide. His older brother Sid played in the 1950s, his son Wes played center for Ray Perkins, son Keith was a linebacker on Gene Stallings’ national championship team in 1992, and his grandson Wesley is a sophomore defensive back for Nick Saban. When Neighbors was asked about current Alabama noseguard, 6-5, 380pound Terrence (“Mount”) Cody, he jokingly responded, “If I knew I was going to be playing in front of him, I’d find something wrong with me.” touchdownalabama.net |
21
Exclusive
Will History Repeat Itself? Austin Thoreau
A
fter a trip to the SEC Championship game, Saban coaches a team breaking in a new starting quarterback against a highly-ranked Virginia Tech Team. It is Saban’s third year, and with high expectations, a great defense, and an ecstatic fan base, supporters of the team dream of a National Championship. Does this scenario sound familiar? To LSU fans it might. In 2002, Nick Saban led a nationally-ranked LSU team against Virginia Tech in the opening game of their season. They were beat 26-8. With their sights on a trip to Pasadena, Bama Fans aren’t hoping for déjà vu anytime soon. Coach Frank Beamer’s Virginia Tech team is known for their dedication to special teams play. As Nick Saban stated recently, “Their battle cry is how well they play on special teams.” Alas, the key moment in the LSU vs. Virginia Tech game in 2002 was a blocked punt before halftime. This led to a quick score by Virginia Tech and allowed them to get off to a 17-0 lead. This burst of momentum changed the face of the game quickly and Saban’s team was never able to fully recover during the game. It is not out of the realm of possibility that Nick Saban
22
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
may use that play in particular to draw inspiration from to help his team prepare this year for the opening game. Alabama has shown flashes of brilliance in their kick return game, but last year struggled at times in kick return coverage. This should provide for an interesting special teams matchup. Another facet of Beamer-coached teams is a great defense. A tough Virginia Tech defense allowed only 214 yards from the highly-regarded LSU Tigers in 2002. In fact, LSU did not score a single point until the fourth quarter. Interceptions and fumbles plagued Saban’s team that game. After the game Nick Saban stated, “Mental errors, penalties, and mistakes killed us.” A key player to watch will be Alabama’s new starting quarterback. If this game plays out anything like Saban’s last run-in with Virginia Tech, expect lots of blitzes against Greg McElroy. With Alabama breaking in new offensive linemen at key positions, it will be a huge task to limit turnovers and move the ball efficiently against Virginia Tech’s stingy defense. A bright spot is that Saban-coached teams historically play good defense in primetime games. In 2002, Virginia Tech only
managed 231 yards in their win against LSU. With possibly the best front 7 in college football this year and an experienced secondary, this trend looks to continue. If Alabama can limit big plays by Virginia Tech and play sound defense, they have a good chance to win. For this to happen, Alabama must stop Virginia Tech’s potent running attack. All of Virginia’s touchdowns in their win against LSU came on the ground and in 2008 it was their bread and butter. Physical drives similar to Alabama’s are trademarks of former and present Virginia Tech teams. The play of the defensive line and linebackers will play a major role in the opening game. Having an athletic quarterback will add to Virginia Tech’s versatility. With Tyrod Taylor at quarterback, expect a spy on him at all times. After Michael Vick’s departure from Virginia Tech in 2001, his understudy made key
plays against Saban’s LSU team, leading the Hokies to a blowout victory in 2002. Taylor has been compared to Vick on many levels, and even spoke with him in the off-season, seeking advice on leading the team this fall. After his teams struggled with option-oriented quarterbacks at the end of 2008 (Florida and Utah), expect major overhauls in Alabama’s approach this year. In this match up we have two great coaches with two great teams. With so many variables there is only one certainty: soon we’ll all find out how good Alabama and Virginia Tech truly are. A win for Alabama or Virginia Tech would solidify their position in the top 5 and keep their hopes for a championship this year alive. A loss would show where they need to improve. Either way, this should be a game for the ages as Alabama hopes history doesn’t repeat itself.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BDL (SABAN) & VIRGINIA TECH ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS
touchdownalabama.net |
23
Touchdown Alabama is a weekly full-color glossy magazine dedicated to University of Alabama football. It is the only one of its kind and it is Alabama’s premier college football magazine. We we sincerely thank the Crimson Tide family and our advertising sponsors: Bamaland Black Warrior Printing & Imaging Bryant Museum Height Services John Wayne Plumbing Katie Farms Patton Realty Popeye’s Quiznos
Rodney L. Goins, DMD Sealy Properties T-Town Fashions Taco Gean Tuscaloosa Chamber of Commerce Tuscaloosa Credit Union TVR Automotive Two Men & a Truck V & W Supply Company
The Best Tacos in Town!
Homemade Mexican Food
508 13th Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
(205) 345-0899 24
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
FREE TACO w/purchase of Combo
Player Spotlight
A Crimson Beginning for Brad Lake
A
Colin Peek
fter transferring from Georgia Tech in 2007, sitting on the bench in 2008 due to the NCAA transfer rule, and recovering from a stress fracture in his left foot, the senior tight end, Colin Peek, is finally getting a chance to step onto the football field as an active member of the Alabama Crimson Tide. On Saturday Sept. 5, the Crimson Tide starts the 2009 regular season in Atlanta, where a year ago the Tide crippled the Clemson Tigers in the Georgia Dome. “It is definitely interesting to be starting my career off at Alabama in the Georgia Dome where I left Tech,” Peek said. “That was where our practices where when it was pouring down rain, so I guess it is familiar grounds, but I am just thankful to be wearing crimson, and hopefully I will be able to affect the game positively come September 5th.” At 6-6, 255 pounds, Peek has excellent size and athletic ability. Out of high school Peek was rated among the nation’s top 30 tight ends by Scout.com at No. 23. Scout.com also rated him the No. 59 player on the Southeast top 100 list. As a senior at Bolles High School, Peek caught 36 passes for 405 yards and seven touchdowns, helping Bolles to earn three consecutive state titles and a record of 41-3. He also played for the U.S. in the NFL Global Junior Championship in Jacksonville, Fla. This season the Tide will be graced with the presence of Peek’s graceful catches and strong blocking ability. A senior at the University of Alabama, Peek is really excited about getting back on the football field for his first competitive game since his transfer after the 2007 regular season. “I am definitely super-antsy, especially now that I can sort of see the game in my sights,” Peek said. “Two-a-days are finally done and it’s getting closer, we’re putting in the game plans and we finally see that the season is upon us. It is just fun to be back in it, because after a year when you’re on the sidelines you just lose a little bit of that enthusiasm.” During the 2007 season with Georgia Tech, Peek started 11 games as a sophomore and had the third-highest number of receptions, with 25 catches for 248 yards and one touchdown. This Florida native, born in Ponte Verda, almost came to the University of Alabama after high school but ultimately decided on Georgia Tech instead. “I almost came here in the first place, but I decided not to come here and it may have been fate that brought me back,” Peek said. “My mom always says that, because my grandfather (Robert Collins) actually played here on the last Rose Bowl team.” Whether it was fate or just a coincidence, the Crimson Tide is PHOTOGRAPHY BY BDL
glad that Peek is here to fill the void at tight end that was left by Travis McCall and Nick Walker. With his help, the Crimson Tide will try to finish the job that they left unfinished last year, and they look for No. 84 to make a difference.
touchdownalabama.net |
25
News
SEC News Ole Miss quarterback Jevon Sneed emerges as a Heisman Trophy candidate to start the season. Tennessee’s top freshman running back Bryce Brown has been cleared to play following an NCAA investigation.
University of Florida was ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press preseason poll, making history after receiving 58 of 60 first-place votes. Auburn University’s top receiver Montez Billings will miss the first four games of season because of academic issues.
your perfect place for football season!!
It isn’t just about sixty minutes of gridiron action. It’s about tailgating, partying with friends, and celebrations long after the game is over. And the only thing missing from your perfect season is a place to stay. The solution? Season-long apartment leases from Sealy Realty. You’ll enjoy more elbow room than any hotel room, have the added convenience of kitchen facilities, and decorate your space for the Fall party that’s football season.
So call Sealy Realty today.
And rack up big points with your friends, family, and clients this fall. t XXX TFBMZSFBMUZ DPN
26
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
Apartment homes are available for rent for football season or year-round With over 7000 apartments to choose from—Sealy has one for you!
CURRENT POLLS AP TOP 10 1. Florida (58) 0-0 1,498 2. Texas (2) 0-0 1,424 3. Oklahoma 0-0 1,370 4. USC 0-0 1,313 5. Alabama 0-0 1,156 6. Ohio State 0-0 1,113 7. Virginia Tech 0-0 1,054 8. Mississippi 0-0 1,047
UA SCHEDULE Sep. 5 Sep. 12 Sep. 19 Sep. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 21 Nov. 27
VA Tech Georgia Dome FL Int’l Home N. Texas Home Arkansas Home Kentucky Away Mississippi Away South Carolina Home Tennessee Home LSU Home Mississippi St. Away Tenn-Chatt Home Auburn Away
9. Oklahoma State 0-0 989 9. Penn State 0-0 989
USA TODAY 1. Florida (53) 0-0 1,466 2. Texas (4) 0-0 1,386 3. Oklahoma (1) 0-0 1,358 4. USC (1) 0-0 1,321 5. Alabama 0-0 1,134 6. Ohio State 0-0 1,126 7. Virginia Tech 0-0 1,020 8. Penn State 0-0 988 9. LSU 0-0 917 10. Mississippi 0-0 889
touchdownalabama.net |
27
IN W O IRT! T ER T-SH T EN EE R AF
5 1
Lee Roy Jordan set an NCAA bowl record with _____ tackles in Alabama’s 17-0 bowl victory over Oklahoma in the 1963 Orange Bowl.
2 3
a. 18 b. 24
?
QUESTIONS
c. 31 d. 42
Who coached the Crimson Tide in the 2006 Independence Bowl after Mike Shula was fired? a. no one b. offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Dave Rader c. newly hired head coach Nick Saban d. defensive coordinator Joe Kines Alabama’s first national championship was won in _______. a. 1915 c. 1925 b. 1920 d. 1930
4 5
How many former Tide players are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as of 2009? a. 9 c. 8 b. 6 d. 10
Bryant-Denny Stadium had a capacity of ________ back in its first season in 1929. a. 800 c. 12,000 b. 5,000 d. 30,000
Contest Rules
Email your entry to: publish@tdalabama.com or mail entry to: Touchdown Alabama Magazine P.O. Box 3251 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 First 50 correct entries receive a free t-shirt
Rodney L. Goins dMd
ROLL TIDE ROLL 28
| TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA September 5, 2009
1434 2nd Court East Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205.752.5400
Showing
In The PHOTOGRAPHY BY BDL
touchdownalabama.net |
29
CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE
FOR SALE
BIRMINGHAM, AL
TUSCALOOSA, AL
ANTIQUE SINGER SEWING MACHINE 1906 treadle model with stand, 4 drawers, Egyptian motif decals. In fair condition. Needs work and refinishing. $150 or best offer. Please call 205-422-7081 or email freejen@mac.com.
TRUMPET Silver Bach Stradivarius Trumpet, ML 43. Includes Bach case, Bach valve guard, mouthpiece. Just in time for school bands to start practicing! This trumpet is a top-of-the-line horn used by both students and professional musicians. $1000 OBO. Please call 205-792-1035.
DESIGNER PURSE MCM, authentic, messenger bag, 8� x 9�, like new, has serial number, tan with red-brown leather trim and strap. $150 OBO. Call 205-995-8261.
MOBILE, AL CAMPER, POP-UP 2007 Jayco 1207 series - Like New, AC/Heat, 6 gal. water heater, water/propane system, awning w/ screen room, outdoor grill, outdoor shower, color TV, hydraulic-surge breaks, jacks & leveling system, spare tire/carrier. $7400. Call 251-604-6998.
TVs Both work great and are in good shape. 13� White-Westinghouse TV = $15. 20� Phillips Magnavox TV = $20. Please call 205-792-1035. WEDDING GOWN Silk Vera Wang - Ivory silk strapless ballgown with chapel-length train. Bustles up for dancing. Beautiful layered silk detail around bottom. Altered to size 8, but could easily let out up to size 12. Extra length for eights up to 6 feet. $600 OBO. Please call 205-792-1036.
TUSCALOOSA, AL MICROWAVE Panasonic “Genius� 1300 watt. Exterior measures 20x12x16. Please call 205-792-1035.
John Wayne Plumbing & Drain Services, Inc. Phone: 343-1770 John Wayne George, Owner 608 41st Street, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Licensed & Insured
3IMPLIFY YOUR MOVE #USTOMIZED MOVING SERVICES TO FIT YOUR NEEDS !CROSS THE HALL ACROSS TOWN OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY
s (OME AND BUSINESS MOVES s ,ONG DISTANCE MOVING
(IGHEST IN #USTOMER
s !PARTMENT MOVES
s "OXES AND PACKING SUPPLIES
3ATISFACTION WITH &ULL 3ERVICE -OVING #OMPANIES * $ 0OWER AND !SSOCIATES &ULL 3ERVICE -OVING #OMPANY 3ATISFACTION 3TUDY
3-
&OR * $ 0OWER AND !SSOCIATES AWARD INFORMATION VISIT JDPOWER COM
WWW TWOMEN COM
3KYLAND "LVD % 4USCALOOSA !, %ACH FRANCHISE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED
HOUSES NORTHPORT 3 BR/2 BA in Northport’s Harper Creek neighborhood. 1472 sq ft. Built in 2007. Fenced yard in cul-de-sac. Fireplace. 2-car garage. Large deck and side porch. Master suite with walk-in closet, jetted garden tub. Includes appliances. Neighborhood amenities include pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, and stocked lake with lighted walking trail. $149,500. Call 205-792-1035.
WANTED TURKEY CALLERS I collect vintage, rare or custom-made turkey calls, as well as other old game callers. Call 205-907-9044 or email: jtommyc@bellsouth.net. TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Email ad to classifieds@tdalabama.com. RATE: $0.35 per word or FREE for subscribers.
7E HELP YOU PLAN AND DESIGN YOUR PRINT JOB s0ROGRAMS s&LYERS s)NVITATIONS s"ROCHURES s0OSTCARDS
s2AFmE 4ICKETS s"OOKLETS s!NNOUNCEMENTS s"USINESS #ARDS s.#2 &ORMS
s2ESUMES s0ENS (ATS "ANNERS s2UBBER 3TAMPS s-UGS $OOR (ANGERS s/N 4IME %VERY 4IME
(ELPING 5NIVERSITY 3TUDENTS AND &ACULTY FOR 9EARS
BLACK WARRIOR Printing & Imaging 205.349.2420 Fax 205.349.0873
Michael & Angela Height
bwpandimaging@aol.com
2529 University Blvd.~Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
“We Press to Please�
Need Something Special?
Hidden Cameras & Nanny Cameras Stun Guns (many types) Diversion Safes (big selection) Pepper Spray (potent) "USINESS #ARDS IN A MINUTES OR LESS
7EDDING 0ARTY )NVITATIONS Open Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Closed Tue, Thu, Sun.
2511 Lurleen Wallace Blvd. N. Northport, AL • (205) 333-4001
TOUCHDOWNALABAMA.NET