What Nick Saban said after Alabama thumped Duke 42-3 in Atlanta

Alabama’s 2019 “revenge tour” got off to a slow start in Atlanta. The No. 2 Crimson Tide and Duke Blue Devils were scoreless after the first quarter of play, but any hopes David Cutcliffe’s squad had of pulling the massive upset soon faded as Alabama started to look like Alabama again. Nick Saban’s squad cruised to a 42-3 win, making UA 1-0 on a day where not all SEC programs can say the same.

Here are some of the highlights of what Saban told the press after the game:

• Alabama played better as game went on (first quarter was scoreless).
• Thinks third down was a difference-maker in game.
• Doesn’t think the game “re-establishes anything.” Team will have to do it over time to re-establish “Alabama factor” (a theme for 2019 season).
• On K Will Reichard: Will did great. He kicked a lot of touchbacks. Both field goals, he hit really well, but was unlucky. Hopes he’ll gain confidence, improve in the future.
• On the offensive line: We need to be better up front on consistent basis.
• On his unsportsmanlike conduct penalty: I deserved it. I’m not making any excuses for it. Also talked about team wanting to establish discipline and coach (him) setting a bad example.
• On Christian Harris and Shane Lee: Played well for the most part. Made some good plays. Made a couple of errors, but adjusted well.
• On Duke’s flexbone: Different look which made life more difficult for Tide’s freshman linebackers.
• WR Jerry Jeudy dealt with cramping issues.
• On OL Emil Ekiyor: Could be out a week or two (knee). Will have MRI. Saban does not think the injury is serious.

Watch Coach Saban’s Post-Game Press Conference from the Duke game. https://t.co/4yRudf0rDd

— Alabama Athletics (@UA_Athletics) August 31, 2019

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.