When Alabama fans initially saw Vanderbilt on the schedule, they likely didn’t envision a matchup against an undefeated team just on the cusp of being ranked in both polls.

Nonetheless, that’s where we are with the Tide heading to Nashville to take on a Commodore team with the best defense and quarterback in the SEC, statistically speaking. While those stats aren’t likely to hold up following this weekend, Alabama’s first league matchup of the season is a bit more intriguing than most assumed it would be this offseason.

During his appearance on the weekly SEC Coaches Teleconference, Nick Saban talked about the matchup. Here’s a summary of what was said during the call:

  • Vanderbilt has a really good team, they are off to a good start. They deserve to be a Top 25 team. They do a great job of controlling the ball, it will be a challenge for us.
  • On Damien Harris and Bo Scarbrough: Both of those guys are off to a good start, both probably played their best in the last game. We have a lot of confidence in those two guys.
  • On the Bama OL vs Vandy DL: This is a tremendous defensive team. This will be a real challenge for us. They run well, they are very athletic and they don’t make many mental errors.
  • On the Alabama WR corps: I think we are making progress, we could be doing better but I like the direction of the unit.
  • On Derek Mason’s job at Vanderbilt: No question, they have a really good team. They play hard, they are physical and team. They have very good schemes on offense, defense and special teams.
  • Could you update us on the injured LBs? All three of them are practicing, Jennings, Moses and Evans are all progressing. All three have been back practicing and we are pleased with how they are coming along.