The Jumbo Package | 10.25.11

Nick Saban speaks before his speech to the Monday Morning QB Club (video) | al.com

Saban talked about the development of redshirt sophomore quarterback AJ McCarron, a first-year starter who threw for 284 yards and a touchdown but also had a pass intercepted for the first time since the opener. The pass that was intercepted shook McCarron up and was not a great decision, Saban said. "It was probably a good thing that it happened," Saban said. "It was a good thing the way he responded to it."

Nick Saban ready to discuss Alabama-LSU game | al.com

"I think after eight straight weeks our team probably needs a little break physically and emotionally, psychologically, and about every way," he said. "It gives us an opportunity to improve some of the deficiencies we have on our team and focus on fundamental execution, which is usually the issue with a team as the season goes along. "But at the same time, sometimes you like the continuity of playing each week and getting in a routine, especially when you're playing well."

TideSports.com - Injuries sideline UA reserves

Weekly honors Linebacker Dont'a Hightower was named the Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against Tennessee. Hightower made seven tackles, recorded three quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, a sack and an interception against the Volunteers. The junior was also named the Lott IMPACT player of the week, making him a candidate for the award named for NFL Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott. Former UA linebacker Demeco Ryans won the award in 2005. ... Hightower was among seven players named for weekly honors by the UA coaching staff. Linebackers Courtney Upshaw and Nico Johnson were also chosen on defense, with receiver Marquis Maze and guard Alfred McCullough on offense. Top special teams performers were kicker Cade Foster and Hardie Buck.

Night of the Crimson Tiger: Your hype begins…now. - Dr. Saturday

Look, aren't we getting a little carried away with… No. Stop. Don't speak. I know what you're saying. Nick Saban is saying the same thing. But he cannot defeat the hype, and neither can you. Embrace it. Revel in it. Because it's got two weeks to build, and it's not going away.

Delusional Optimism Is Hyped - And The Valley Shook

The LSU-Alabama game in two weeks is going to easily be the most hyped game of the year, and one of the most hyped regular season games of the BCS era. #1 and #2 don't play each other in a virtual elimination game all that often. And make no mistake, this is an elimination game. I'm sure the losing team will have its partisans advocating for a national title rematch, so let me make my position clear before we know the winner and the loser: The loser of this game should not be in the national title game if the winner of this game is invited. The only reason we put up with this ridiculous BCS system is the Every Game Counts line - and if there is a rematch, then clearly every game does not count. There is simply no way the BCS is going to expose themselves to that kind of embarrassment. There will be no rematch.

LSU AD says CBS negotiated with ESPN to move LSU-Bama game to primetime - The Washington Post

"ESPN received future scheduling considerations from CBS for making the move," Alleva wrote. "The change in kickoff time was not requested by either participating school." LSU fans have been upset this season because the Tigers will not play any SEC home games at night for the first time since 1935. "Of course we will always continue do everything within our means to have as many other night games as possible in Baton Rouge," Alleva wrote.

Suspended LSU trio must get 'act together' before reinstatement

"The athletic director will ultimately make the decision, (and) he'll consult with me," Martin said when asked about possible reinstatement. "Fortunately for them and the team, they have two weeks to get their act together because we have a bye week. They have been directed to some counseling, and they will now be subject to greater scrutiny for the remainder of their time at LSU."

LSU's quarterbacks will be key when the Tigers take on Alabama | NOLA.com

The odds are that Jarrett Lee or Jordan Jefferson, or both, will determine whether LSU leaves Tuscaloosa, Ala., perfect or blemished. One or both will decide whether the Tigers remain rock-solid No. 1 in the BCS standings or must scramble and pray for a lot of help in order to vault back into the national title race. And, frankly, LSU has to like the odds of things working out favorably for it in its road game against No. 2 Alabama.

Depth issues haunt some in SEC - College Football Nation Blog - ESPN

The stench of youth in certain areas of the SEC is palpable. Depth issues have bogged down all Florida, Ole Miss and Tennessee during the last two seasons and it’s a main reason for the combined 27-32 record from these teams in that span.