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Alabama Football: Nick Saban talks game, QB future, Maria Taylor and more

By Ronald Evans

ORLANDO, FL - SEPTEMBER 01: Raekwon Davis #99 of the Alabama Crimson Tide leads a defensive stop against Jawon Pass #4 of the Louisville Cardinals in the second quarter of the game at Camping World Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - SEPTEMBER 01: Raekwon Davis #99 of the Alabama Crimson Tide leads a defensive stop against Jawon Pass #4 of the Louisville Cardinals in the second quarter of the game at Camping World Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Alabama football coach, Nick Saban spoke carefully but thoughtfully during his Monday post-Louisville game, media session.

Alabama football fans know Nick Saban chooses his words carefully. Normally his chosen words are measured to further his communication strategies as the Crimson Tide head coach. On Monday, those chosen words may not have been revealing but they reinforced what we know, but may sometimes forget about him.

Among Nick Saban’s admirable qualities, one was in evidence on Monday. He is intensely loyal to his players. And though most often it may be tough love, Nick is sincere when he talks about loving his players.

"I love all of our players on our team. I think as parents out there you can relate to this, that you love all your children. … You want to support and help both to be successful. That’s how I feel about all of our players."

A multitude of his players have attested to just that over the years.

Answering a question about his response to ESPN’s Maria Taylor after the game, he said,

"I talked to Maria. I could’ve handled it in a better way. … Every Sunday in church I pray to not get angry."

The talk about love and anger stems from the almost nine months, maelstrom that has swirled around the Crimson Tide s starting QB situation. Alabama football fans have been in a tizzy over it throughout. Take our stress and multiply it by x-plus to approximate the strain felt by Tua, Jalen, their parents and Nick Saban.

That strain is not going away. Nick Saban will continue trying to do what is best for his football team, Tua and Jalen. We were reminded on Monday a good way to bring a media session to a halt is by asking another QB-saga question. Saban patiently tried to explain that Tua is the starter for the Arkansas State game and Jalen will continue to be used to help the team.

On a potential four-game limit to allow for a Jalen redshirt season, Nick said he,

"has not really thought about it. … I don’t know how a player really can pick and choose when he wants to play and have any respect from his teammates"

Without elaboration, that Saban comment can be summed up as both love and tough love. What else can be said or asked of Saban? He will do what is best for all his players while also trying to do what is best for Jalen, as long as the two do not conflict.

What else Nick said

  • Too many errors individually and collectively against Louisville, mostly on defense
  • Pass protection was sometimes a problem against Louisville
  • Quinnen Williams was most active guy up front, using his quickness and athleticism
  • Arkansas State runs a spread, fastball offense that will be a challenge
  • The team will focus this week on improving tackling
  • Couple of guys with minor injuries but everybody should be able to practice by Tuesday

Next. Best Opposing Players to face the Tide in '18. dark

Alabama football will practice Monday afternoon. Bama Hammer practice reports will follow the preparation for Arkansas State.

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