Alabama May Have A New Week 1 Opponent Lined Up

When the PAC-12 and Big Ten opted to play a conference-only schedule, they left many out-of-conference opponents in a lurch. Among them were the Crimson Tide who had been scheduled to play Southern Cal in JerryWorld on September 5. Also, left scrambling is Brigham Young who found the first four games of their schedule with Utah, Michigan State, Arizona State, and Minnesota scratched off the docket. They also lost their season finale against Stanford.

Matt Zenitz of al.com reported on Saturday that there is a “strong possibility” these two teams could pair off in Week 1. While he provides very few details, theories propose that the game could take place in Atlanta or Tuscaloosa. With BYU desperate to fill three to five games, they are sure to be accommodating to whatever demands new opponents might present.

Peach Bowl CEO Gary Stokan recently pondered that Notre Dame could be a possible Week 1 opponent for Alabama but Bama AD Greg Byrne quashed that rumor.

Byrne has made no comment regarding BYU as of this post.

If this game were to happen, it could have special meaning to Alabama offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian who starred at quarterback for BYU in 1995-1996 and won the Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation’s top passer.

The Tide and Cougars have met only once, the 1998 season opener in Tuscaloosa. Bama won 38-31 with senior Shaun Alexander scoring five touchdowns. See below for your viewing pleasure.

1998 HIGHLIGHTS:

FULL GAME:

One of the best TV duos ever, Ron Franklin and Mike Gottfried, called the game. You won’t regret at least watch the opening minutes.