Roll 'Bama Roll
The Champagne of 'Bama Blogs
Total reads
2,465
This week
0
Rank
#100 of 467
Published
819 posts
Last 12 weeks
Most read posts
Featured on Sportsblogs
Run this blog? Add the badge to your site to show readers you're featured — it links back to this page.
Latest Entries
Initial Impressions from the LSU game
Alabama edged LSU 31‑18 in Baton Rouge, securing a playoff‑bound win despite being outgained by nearly 200 yards. Coach Lane Kiffin’s risky play‑calling—fourth‑down attempts inside the 10‑yard line and a fourth‑and‑10 from his own 25—proved costly, turning an 11‑point deficit into 18 late in the game. Alabama’s edge came from superior red‑zone efficiency, winning the turnover battle (including turnovers on downs) and dominating special teams; Alex Asparuhov’s 49.8‑yard punts flipped field position while Ryan Coleman‑Williams’ quickness sparked the passing attack. Key defensive stops from Luke Metz and Devan Thompkins, plus a healthy Terrance Green anchoring the line, helped limit LSU’s run game.
11 “Red Zone only” graphs from the LSU win
Alabama ekes out a 31-13 win over LSU despite lackluster overall efficiency, driven by a flawless Red Zone performance. The Tide outgains LSU in rushing (79‑77 yards) and boasts higher yards per rush (2.7 vs. 2.3), while posting four sacks against LSU’s two. Crucially, Alabama attempts no 4th‑down conversions, whereas LSU fails on all four attempts, highlighting the Red Zone edge. Turnovers favor Bama (0 to 2) and penalties are minimal (7 for 44 yards). The post dives into 11 Red Zone‑only graphs that reveal how “paper” beat “rock” in this surprising victory.
Victory/Late Shift Open Thread: Alabama tames Tigers once again
Alabama silences critics with a 31-13 road win over LSU in Baton Rouge on Nov. 7, 2026. QB Keelon Russell sparks the offense with a running pass and a key scramble, while freshman Cederian Morgan and RB Kaleb Edwards add big plays. The Tide’s defense forces multiple red‑zone stops and a pivotal interception by Luke Metz, keeping LSU’s early lead at bay. After a 10-3 halftime advantage, Alabama rallies on a controversial pass‑interference call and a decisive punt return by Ryan Coleman‑Williams, pulling ahead 17-13 and eventually extending the lead with a screen‑pass TD to Edwards. Despite a late concussion scare for wideout Josh Ford, the win reaffirms Alabama’s top‑5 status heading into the SEC’s final stretch.
Alabama vs LSU: First Half Impressions
Despite LSU appearing the smoother team in the first half, Alabama guards a 10-3 lead at halftime in Baton Rouge. The Crimson Tide’s conservative play‑calling—quick passes to QB Keelon Russell and short throws to RBs and TEs—keeps them afloat, though offensive penalties and a sputtering run game (28 yards on 9 carries) linger. LSU moves the ball well, yet stalls in the red zone, misses a long field goal and throws a pick, while Alabama’s defense limits the Tigers to just three points despite 168 passing yards from Leavitt. Key moments include a costly missed tackle by Carmelo O'Neal and an interception by Luke Metz. Both sides are poised for a pivotal second half.
Wake Up! Week 10 Viewing Guide and Morning Open Thread
Alabama heads into its showdown with LSU at 2:30 p.m. in Baton Rouge, where the loser risks dropping to a daunting 3‑loss playoff position. Meanwhile, early‑day action features #7 BYU vs. #3 Utah at 11:00 a.m. on ABC, a clash that could reshuffle the top‑ten rankings, and SEC rivals #10 Texas vs. #19 Missouri, both fighting for playoff momentum. The guide also highlights other key games—including Auburn, Arkansas, UCLA, and Minnesota—plus a full schedule from CFBGrid.com, making it the go‑to thread for Week 10 college football fans.
Allen Triple-Double Leads Tide
Alabama sophomore guard Amiri Allen records the fifth triple‑double in Crimson Tide history as the 20th‑ranked Tide defeat Arkansas State 101‑86 at Coleman Coliseum. Allen finishes with 16 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists despite a late‑game ankle sprain. Kentucky transfer Brandon Garrison adds a double‑double (14 points, 10 rebounds) and the Tide shoots 74% from the line while pulling down 58 rebounds. Coach Nate Oats, facing former assistant Ryan Pannone, sees his team improve to 2‑0 on the season after a sluggish start but a dominant second half. The win keeps Alabama on track early in the 2026‑27 campaign.
Victory thread: Alabama takes care of business vs Arkansas State
Alabama storms past Arkansas State 101-86 on Nov. 6, 2026, despite a shaky start that saw the Red Wolves lead 19-11 early. Guard Amiri Allen sparks a comeback, posting his first career triple‑double (13 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists) as the Tide pull away with a 51-34 halftime lead. Qayden Samuels and Drew Fielder combine for 27 points, while the frontcourt dominates the glass 37‑20 in the first half. A late Arkansas run trims the margin, but Alabama answers with key three‑point bursts and solid defense to seal the win. The Tide improve to 2‑0 and face Oakland next Monday.
Alabama Basketball vs Arkansas State Open Thread
Roll 'Bama Roll opens a thread for Alabama's upcoming home game against Arkansas State on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. CT in Coleman Coliseum. The Crimson Tide aim to improve to 2‑0 early in the season, with live streaming available on the ESPN app and SEC Network+. A preview link offers background on the Red Wolves, and fans are invited to join the discussion.
Alabama gets good injury news ahead of LSU game
Alabama heads into Saturday’s #5 vs. LSU with three key starters back: WR Ryan Coleman‑Williams, center Racin Delgatty and defensive lineman Terrance Green, who missed the last two games after injuries against Georgia on Oct. 10. The Crimson Tide sits 6‑2 (4‑2 SEC) and also lists left guard Will Sanders as a game‑time decision following TightRope surgery after the Oct. 24 win over Texas A&M. Cornerback Zabien Brown and RBs AK Dear and EJ Crowell remain questionable, but the returns boost Alabama’s chances against the rival.
Alabama Basketball vs Arkansas State: 3 Keys, How to Watch
Alabama returns to Coleman Coliseum Friday night to face Arkansas State, aiming for a 2-0 start after a win over Sam Houston State. Coach Nate Oats looks to keep the Tide's turnover advantage—ten turnovers forced vs. 23 committed in the opener—while improving rebounding, which allowed 15 offensive boards last game. Arkansas State, now led by former Oats assistant Ryan Pannone, brings an uptempo offense averaging 83 points and a strong rebounding edge, though they turnover 14 per night. Key players to watch include Arkansas State guard Royal Blue Smith and freshman Aaron McGee, while Alabama relies on wing Anderson Diaz and its size advantage.
Alabama Football 2026 vs. LSU Preview: Q&A with Zach Junda
In a candid Q&A, LSUWire’s Zach Junda weighs in on Lane Kiffin’s first eight games, praising the high‑scoring offense but criticizing a questionable punt against Kentucky. He notes LSU’s surge to a 6‑2 record, 5.5‑point favoritism over Alabama despite lower rankings, and their SEC‑leading yardage on both sides of the ball. Junda highlights key playmakers like Hawaii transfer wideout Jackson Harris and the return of tight end Trey’Dez Green after an MCL sprain, while flagging WR Winnie Watkins’ recent struggles. The interview sets the stage for the high‑stakes Alabama‑LSU showdown.
Jumbo Package: Alabama football at LSU previews and predictions
The Roll ’Bama Roll preview pits No. 9 Alabama against No. 15 LSU in Baton Rouge on November 7, 2026. After a 3‑loss slip for the Tide, LSU’s revamped offense—led by quarterback Sam Leavitt (278 yards, 2 TDs) and receiver Jackson Harris (110 yards)—looks set to exploit Alabama’s injury‑hit secondary. The Tigers boast the SEC’s top scoring offense and defense, ranking first in net EPA per play, while Alabama sits fifth. Bittner predicts a close, low‑scoring contest with LSU edging Alabama 26‑20 (or 31‑24 in a later projection). The article breaks down key stats, recent performance trends, and why LSU may finally halt the Crimson Tide’s CFP march.
Alabama Football 2026 vs. LSU: Previewing the Tiger Defense
LSU’s defense, revamped by coordinator Blake Baker, is the centerpiece of the Crimson Tide’s upcoming clash with Alabama. Baker runs a high‑pressure scheme with a near‑50% pass‑blitz rate, ranking seventh among Power‑4 teams, while still relying on safe zone coverages—30% Cover 1 on standard downs and 52% Fire Zone on blitzes. The Tigers rank 5th in unblocked pressures and 4th nationally in “havoc” plays, but have struggled against Ole Miss and Kentucky, giving up 32 and 35 points. Standout edge rushers Princewill Umanmielen (8.5 sacks) and Jordan Ross (5 sacks) anchor a unit that excels at forcing tackles for loss but can be vulnerable to big runs when the initial punch fails.
Jumbo Package: Initial injury report for Alabama at LSU
Alabama’s SEC showdown with LSU looms as head coach Kalen DeBoer releases an injury outlook: seven Tide players—including RB AK Dear, WR Ryan Coleman‑Williams, DB Zabien Brown, RB EJ Crowell, C Racin Delgatty, OG William Sanders and DL Terrance Green—are listed as questionable, with Sanders likely out. Practice footage shows some hopes for Williams, Green and Delgatty. LSU’s own report lists Whit Weeks as doubtful, though speculation remains. DeBoer praises LSU’s “attacking mindset” and notes crowd‑noise drills at practice, emphasizing communication between QB Keelon Russell and his unit. Both coaches hint at the high stakes, recalling LSU’s 552‑yard offense at Auburn and Alabama’s recent 118‑45 women’s basketball win.
Alabama Football 2026 vs. LSU: Previewing the Tiger Offense
Alabama prepares to face Lane Kiffin’s LSU Tigers for the first time since Nick Saban’s retirement, and the Tigers bring the SEC’s highest‑scoring offense at 40.1 points per game. Transfer‑portal quarterback Sam Leavitt leads the charge, posting a 70% completion rate, 2,173 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and 324 rushing yards with eight scores, though he’s prone to interceptions. Key playmakers include transfer wideout Jackson Harris (634 yards, 7 TDs), slot receiver Winston Watkins (37 catches), and tight end Trey’Dez Green (272 yards on 19 grabs). RB Dilin Jones dominates the ground game with 657 yards and six touchdowns, while the offensive line shows inconsistency, especially at left tackle Jordan Seaton. The preview examines whether LSU’s balanced attack can finally topple Alabama.
Jumbo Package: Alabama ranked 5th, national meltdown ensues
The College Football Playoff committee ranks Alabama No. 5 on Nov. 4, 2026, sparking outrage among Tennessee fans after the Vols’ 26‑10 win over the Tide. Analysts cite Alabama’s three quality road victories — over Kentucky, South Carolina and an unbeaten Mississippi State — as justification, while critics argue the two‑loss SEC squad is overrated compared to undefeated UCLA, one‑loss BYU and other contenders. The debate intensifies as the committee appears to favor SEC teams, placing Alabama ahead of Tennessee, LSU and even an unbeaten UCLA in the first CFP rankings.
Alabama Rolls In Opener, 96-74
Alabama opens the 2026 season with a dominant 96-74 win over Sam Houston at Coleman Coliseum. After a slow start, the Crimson Tide surge, fueled by freshmen Jaxon Richardson's dunk and London Jemison's perfect shooting (10 points on 4‑4, including 3‑4 from three). Both Drew Fielder and Jemison finish with 15 points, while Tarris Bouie adds 13 and eight rebounds. Coach Nate Oats rotates eight players for at least 10 minutes each, highlighting depth and defensive pressure that forces 42 rebounds and 10 blocks. The Tide shoot 48% overall and improve to 54% in the second half, securing a comfortable lead by halftime.
Postgame thread: Tide rolls over Bearkats
Alabama opens its 2026 season with a 96-74 victory over Sam Houston State at Coleman Coliseum. Despite a sloppy first half and no point guard, the Crimson Tide forced 11 turnovers, shot 30% for the Bearkats and blocked seven shots, leading 40-29 at halftime. London Jemison topped the scoring with 11 perfect shots, while freshmen Jaxon Richardson, Tarris Bouie, Anderson Diaz and Qayden Samuels contributed strong defensive effort. Coach Nate Oats praised the depth and hinted at the upcoming addition of Aden Holloway. The Tide next faces Arkansas State on Friday.
CFP rankings 2026: Alabama ranks 5th in first playoff rankings
The first College Football Playoff rankings for 2026 place Alabama at No. 5, making it the highest‑ranked two‑loss team and ahead of one‑loss squads like Kentucky and Notre Dame. Miami tops the list, followed by Georgia and Utah. The committee cited Alabama’s “signature wins” over Kentucky, South Carolina and Mississippi State as key factors, while Tennessee slipped despite a head‑to‑head victory. Alabama now sits with a straight path to the playoffs if it wins out, and Fanduel lists the Tide as the fourth‑best playoff prospect at -360 odds. The rankings also spark debate over UCLA’s low placement and Georgia’s loss to Auburn.
Alabama Basketball vs Sam Houston State Open Thread
Join in the conversation as Alabama basketball opens yet another exciting season! If you haven’t had an opportunity to check out our season primer, you can find it here. Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026 Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. CT Location: Coleman Coliseum TV: None Streaming: ESPN app/SEC Network+ Roll Tide!
Alabama Basketball vs Sam Houston State: 3 Keys, How to Watch
Alabama opens Nate Oats’ eighth season at Coleman Coliseum on Nov. 3 against Sam Houston State, a program now led by fourth‑year coach Chris Mudge after moving to Conference USA. With guard Aden Holloway suspended, Oats must decide who will run the point—candidates include Qayden Samuels, Amari Allen and Tarris Bouie. The frontcourt rotation hinges on starters Brandon Garrison and Drew Fielder, though Keitenn Bristow and Jamarion Davis‑Fleming could earn minutes. Defense and rebounding are also focal points as Oats promises a tougher, more effort‑driven team. Sam Houston’s key players to watch are point guard Justin Begg, sharpshooter Zion Pipkin and towering freshman center Matt Dann. The game streams on the ESPN app/SEC Network+ at 6:30 p.m. CT.
Random Thoughts Week 9: Playoff Tricks and Upset Treats
The biggest shock of Week 9 comes as unranked Southern Cal tops No. 2 Ohio State 30‑18, with USC linebacker Desman Stephens II forcing a key fumble. The upset adds Ohio State to a recent list of top‑two teams felled by underdogs, joining Notre Dame and BYU. Meanwhile, the SEC sees widening gaps: Ole Miss crushes Auburn 45‑15, South Carolina beats Oklahoma 42‑25 behind LaNorris Sellers’ 397 yards, and Miami edges North Carolina 38‑35. Iowa State survives a wild 51‑49 win over Oklahoma State, and Baylor dominates Central Florida 41‑9 after the latter’s coaching turmoil. The week highlights growing parity outside the SEC and a surge of surprise results shaping the playoff picture.
Jumbo Package: Alabama coaches speak to the media ahead of LSU week
Ahead of the LSU showdown, Alabama coaches stress discipline, physicality and a stronger run game. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb urges the backs to stay patient and attack four‑yard gaps, while head coach Kalen DeBoer highlights the need for explosive plays to complement that approach. Defensive coordinator Dave Wommack raves about LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt's arm talent and quick‑game decision‑making, warning that Alabama must outscore the Tigers. DeBoer also hints that several key players—WR Ryan Coleman‑Williams, CB Zabien Brown, C Racin Delgatty and DT Terrance Green—are progressing in rehab and could return for the November 3 matchup. The preview blends tactical insights with injury updates as the Crimson Tide prepare for a high‑stakes road test.
Jumbo Package: Alabama looks for better health, secondary play at LSU
Alabama heads into the LSU showdown with a health boost and a secondary in need of a reset. Defensive backs like Zabien Brown and Dijon Lee Jr. have shown flashes – Brown’s pick‑six and Lee’s two interceptions – but the unit still suffers coverage lapses and inconsistent tackling. Safeties rank a modest C+, with Bray Hubbard steady and Keon Sabb underperforming. Meanwhile, the Crimson Tide’s women’s basketball opens its 2026‑27 season under new coach Pauline Love, a former Oklahoma associate head coach, against Queens on the SEC Network+. The article warns that if Alabama’s secondary clicks on Saturday and injured players return, the Tide can capitalize on LSU’s recent stumble and keep playoff hopes alive.
College Football fans are missing their villains
College football fans are lamenting a loss of the sport's traditional 'villain' – a dominant team to hate. The author argues that NIL deals and the transfer portal have leveled the playing field, weakening depth at powerhouses like Alabama and spreading talent to mid‑tier programs. Without a perennial dynasty such as Nick Saban’s Crimson Tide, Ohio State, Texas or Notre Dame, viewers lack the petty hate that once drove TV ratings and weekly excitement. Playoff expansion and increased parity further dilute drama, leaving fans yearning for a clear adversary to rally against.
Displaying items 1-25 of 819 in total