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The final practice before A-Day was held outdoors in helmets, shoulder pads and shorts under mostly cloudy skies and temperatures in the 60s.
SABAN PRESSER
In Thursday's press conference, Nick Saban stated that he "was certainly encouraged today that energy, intensity, and enthusiasm was better" and they "made a lot of progress this spring" but "obviously we are not satisfied with where we are." A-Day will be a chance to "create an identity." Saban has repeated this mantra in past press conferences this spring so you know he is driving this point home to the players.
Saban pointed out the importance of a good fan turnout and support that always impresses recruits that will be there.
The game format will be first team O vs. first team D and the twos against each other as well. As is tradition, they will serve steaks to the winners while the losers get beans.
A question was asked about the absence of Kenyan Drake and Altee Tenpenny at practice today. Saban sent them to the study table for four hours instead since "they didn't do what they were supposed to do in school this week." They may not play Saturday if they don't spend four hours there. This soured his mood and he went on about the importance of an education and so forth and that was his last statement. He walked off without a word. These two guys need to stay the heck out of the doghouse.
INJURY UPDATES
It was a good sign to see wide receiver DeAndrew White catching passes though he was in a black no-contact jersey. White, Darren Lake, and Eddie Jackson will not participate on Saturday.
POSITION BATTLES
The A-Day Rosters were released and it appears that the Crimson will be first team offense and the White will be the first team defense. You can see the full rosters here. Speculate away!
A question was asked about Cam Robinson. Saban raved about him but pointed out that "the learning curve is huge" and he "has a ways to go" but he is a smart kid. The staff is "looking for some chemistry" in the line.
In response to the all-you-can-eat NCAA rule, Saban spoke of being all in favor of it though the rule is a bit vague at this point.
VIP
Former Bama All-American and current Buffalo Bills Pro-Bowl DE Marcell Dareus was taking in the action today.
Peyton Manning came through Tuscaloosa this past week. Who knew? One reporter did but not many others did. Saban said that Manning just "wanted to learn and get better." In return, the Bama staff educated themselves better on the hurry-up offense that Denver runs. Saban considers the Broncos quarterback "a friend".
A not-so-VIP and professional dullard Joey Galloway was also at practice. I am sorry to say, he will be doing color on Saturday for ESPNU.
NEXT PRACTICE
Saturday, April 19, A-Day Game, 1 pm CT, Bryant-Denny Stadium. A-Day Primer coming tomorrow morning on RBR.
ROLL TIDE!
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