Alabama opens up conference play against Ole Miss on Saturday after defeating Arkansas State 57-7 last week.
After dropping 50-plus points against their opponents in the first two weeks, the Crimson Tide are anticipating a little more competition in Week 3.
Here’s what coach Nick Saban said during Wednesday’s SEC Coaches’ Teleconference:
On playing at Ole Miss:
- Ole Miss is a tough place to play, our guys need to step up there game this week.
Pat Fitzgerald’s comments on the RPO:
- I think they are very very common. We will fave every form of RPO this week against Ole Miss. We have had success with them… As long as we control the line, we make it tough on the defense… It’s also a legal play, so… A few years ago with guys seven yards down the field, it was a little unfair but they have managed that well.
Going back to your first year at Alabama, how did you go about getting buy in from the players?:
- I think you don’t sacrifice principles… You have to stick to your guns, don’t make compromises…. We weren’t very good our first year, 6-6, had players suspended, lost to ULM… The next year we were a lot better.
Did making that bowl game and win show that your process was working?:
- I think so, it’s a work in process. It doesn’t happen overnight. You have to stick to your guns and not compromise.
On his secondary:
- We’ve made a lot of progress. Players have confidence in what they are doing… We are about to face some good receivers and a QB… We have to play with confidence and togetherness.
On Tua Tagovailoa’s third down success. What is he doing there to have success?:
- He’s very instinctive in the passing game — when it comes to the pocket, keeping your eyes downfield. It’s execution on offense, handing in there and throwing the ball in the right place… I think it’s important that we have success on that down if we are going to have success in the future.
On his new assistants this year:
- I’ve pleased with the staff we have. This is the most changes we’ve had in leadership positions, OC, DC, special teams. I’m pleased with that.
What is unique about the Ole Miss WRs and QB:
- They have a great scheme and they execute it. Their WRs are big, physical and have really good speed outside. AJ is a classic, big slot receiver that uses his body well and has good hands… The QB is accurate, executes the offense well and they are very productive.
Jordan Dajani covers SEC football for Saturday Down South and is a University of Tennessee graduate. He also has experience working in the NBA and with ESPN.
