Roundtable: Previewing Alabama vs. Penn State

T he Crimson & White Roundtable examines this week’s Alabama game against Penn St.
1) What is the most important thing we learned about the 2010 Alabama Crimson Tide in the wake of the San Jose State game?
The most important thing I learned was not to stand too close to the stadium, but I’ll talk about that later. I suppose the most important thing that can be learned from the season opener was that Alabama’s special teams were not as bad as feared. We still need to see them under real pressure, but at least it was not as bad as feared. I might even say that it was encouraging.

2) What is the biggest area of concern given the upcoming contest with the Penn State?
So many areas. I like to worry about the offensive line and pass protection, but to be honest the receivers did not do a very good job in the BCS Championship game out in Pasadena. I could also worry about the young secondary, or question if Alabama will be able to get pressure on the quarterback. However, I think the defense will be able to get pressure even without Marcel Dareus. That just leaves the receivers and the secondary. If the front seven get pressure, that will help the secondary. That means my biggest worry is how the receivers will look against a good defense. They didn’t look great in January. I hope the unit plays better this Saturday.

3) Which Alabama player is most likely to have a breakout performance against the Nittany Lions?
The entire offensive line. We think the line is good. Here is their chance to show it. They need to protect the quarterback and show they can dominate the line of scrimmage for the backs.

4) What part of the gameday experience are you most looking forward to on Saturday?
I took a pretty girl to her first Alabama game last week, and the experience was unforgettable to say the least.
When we arrived and started our trek into the stadium, some college or high school kids decided to spit off the stadium. Fortunately, most of it landed on me and not her. However, her first impression of Alabama’s gameday wasn’t good. So, thanks to those guys. Nothing says class like spit. Just in case those scholars were attempting an experiment, I happily provide the answer. Yes, spit does indeed piss off people who are hit by it.

Next, after making it to our seats we had the pleasure of some drunk falling on us and the row in front. The people in front of us took most of the blow, but it was another fine testament to Alabama football and the gameday experience. I blame Mal Moore and Gene Hallman.

So, what am I looking forward to on Saturday in Tuscaloosa? I’m going to hope we make it to our seats without getting spit on or being crushed by some drunk.