The Alabama Crimson Tide faces Mississippi State in SEC action this Saturday. Alabama football Coach Nick Saban discussed the game on the weekly SEC teleconference. You can listen to Coach Saban’s comments in the above audio/video player from the SEC Digital Network. A few important points are noted below if you want to read along or if your mobile platform does not support the video player.
The Alabama football coach said this week’s game with Mississippi State was “challenging.” “This is always a tough place to play,” Saban said of Starkville.
Saban also discussed the psychological rebuilding effort after the LSU defeat. Saban said the team must “look forward and look ahead for what we can accomplish for the season.” All this in an effort “to try to make this season something special for us.”
Saban provided an update on Alabama’s injuries. According to Saban, offensive lineman Barrett Jones is day-to-day, Brad Smelley is scheduled to practice Wednesday. Corner Dre Kirkpatrick was fine in Tuesday practice. Marquis Maze practiced Tuesday.
Saban was asked about Missouri’s admission to the SEC and his friendship with Mizzou head football coach Gary Pinkel. Saban praised Pinkel as a coach and as a friend. “He was a hell of a lot better player than I was,” Saban said.
Saban talked about Mississippi State’s quarterbacks and the ability to pass the football. “Makes it a much more difficult preparation” when you face a running quaterback and passing quarterback duo.
Saban explained why Alabama running back Trent Richardson is such a special player.
Saban was asked to comment about Penn State Joe Paterno and the situation at Penn State. “I know it is a terrible sad, series of events,” Saban said. Saban said the most important concern would be for the kids.