Loyal readers know one of our occasional contributors is Shane from Centerpoint, Bama homer and regular on the Paul Finebaum Radio Network. Shane dropped in this week to give us his thoughts on Spring practice and his favorite man of the cloth.
It’s that time of year again. Going to the A-Day game?
Yes, I plan to take the trip. I’ll be joined by the lead sportswriter from the Western Star newspaper, Hunter Ford. We both take the A-Day game pretty seriously. The view from the press box allows a unique opportunity to study the team in detail without being distracted by outside influences.
Press box, huh? Friends in high places…
Don’t get me wrong; I love the crowd and the electric atmosphere at Bryant-Denny, and I always go to the field for the fourth quarter, but this is nothing more than a scrimmage with 92,000 live bodies making noise. I’m ready because this will be my first opportunity to see what “Saban Act II” is all about.
What do you expect to see from this new offense, and from Process 2.0?
The Process is entering its second season. The two most important components required for success in football are team continuity, and consistency. Coach Saban’s Fourth Quarter program should begin to show on the field, with this being it’s second year in place. Like most great coaches, Nick Saban demands intensity, toughness, and relentless pressure on the field of play. The A-Day game will reveal the truth about whether this team is making the sacrifices required to play championship football. Also, there remains one huge question mark – Does Saban now have quality depth at all positions?
Can you see a trend developing?
Actually, I think coach Jim (Saban, Pendry and Jim) will do an excellent job making this offense successful. The 2008 edition of the Crimson Tide offense will be loaded to the gills with great talent, both from the existing roster and the incoming freshmen class. The offense will be better, mainly because of the offensive line and the fact the system has been in place for two years.
Do you think John Parker Wilson has it in him to make the adjustments?
Let’s get real about John Parker Wilson for a minute. With time to throw, he can be deadly. If he has two or three SEC-caliber defenders in his face, he will make mistakes. Who knows how well John Parker will respond to his new position coach? However, I think the answer could make or break next season.
How about the other side of the ball?
I’m waiting to see the type of defense Saban wants Tide fans to see: a defense that is offensive. Last year, when I watched LSU strangle other teams (including Alabama) with sheer talent on defense, I saw what Nick Saban football is all about. Defense wins championships, and he can build them with the best. In fact, the LSU football program reached the pinnacle of college football in 2007 with the defensive personnel that Saban stockpiled while he was in Baton Rouge.
Moving from sports to sportstalk, you’re not featured on the Finebaum.com homepage anymore. What gives?
Actually, I am still featured on the Paul Finebaum Radio Network website. Due to a change agreed upon by the staff of the PFRN website and myself, the link to my commentary is now located in the center of the page under the “Big Stories” section. It will always remain at the top of the headlines. Seriously, I wouldn’t bore you with the details. This was simply a business decision. Look for the Capstone Report – Shane Sez. My columns will post on the front page each Thursday or Friday.
You’ve been a busy guy. Since your first appearance on AlabamaGameday, you’ve taken up residence at the Capstone Report and the Western Star. Expanding your media empire?
Media empire? C’mon man, I can’t believe it has gotten this good. I feel blessed by the Lord. Listen, I’m acutely aware that every football fan has a valid opinion and something to say about the game we all love. Every last one wants a place to voice their thoughts. As you stated, I already have two outlets that allow me to vent my ideas. You’ve provided a third venue. Thanks for the opportunity. Do you want to hire me full-time?
Well, the pay is crap, but there’s at least we don’t censor.
Speaking of which, you’ve been on a crusade to bring the activities of Rev. Chette Williams to light. Is that still on your to-do list?
I’ve already pushed the Chette WIlliams thing to the limit. I delivered the “Open letter to Chette Williams” commentary on a silver platter. I even had the Great Paul Finebaum calling for brother Chette to come on his show and and answer the many questions that surrounded my column, which was based on a New York Times investigative report. I would like to ask Williams myself, but we aren’t on speaking terms at this time.
If that changes, we know how to get a hold of you. Thanks for stopping in.
Talk to you soon.