Alabama Football: Latest Crimson Tide information from Tuscaloosa

Nick Saban gave an Alabama Football update late Wednesday afternoon. As planned, it will be Saban’s last media session, until Utah State game week. Crimson Tide fans will love some of the news and observations Nick Saban shared on Wednesday.

There was no talk about a depth chart. Instead, Saban made comments indicating at least two position groups continue to have spirited competition.

The full media session is included below, compliments of BamaInsider.

Alabama Football Optimism

Saban opened on a positive note saying,

"I do think we’ve made significant improvements in a lot of areas.  But the question remains, can you complete a simple task on a consistent basis to play winning football?"

Speaking of consistency and winning football, Saban had strong praise for Jordan Battle, calling him a complete player.

"Jordan’s a very bright guy. He’s got a great work ethic. He loves to practice, loves to play."

Talking about the inside linebackers, Saban’s comments indicate a three-player rotation with Henry To’o To’o, Jaylen Moody and Deontae Lawson is likely.

"We have three guys for two positions that you can definitely count on."

Regarding injuries, Saban commented on Tyler Harrell. Saban said the new Crimson Tide receiver had a foot sprain that had kept him from working at full speed, but that he has recovered.

"He’s starting to get more confident.He’s had a great attitude about getting better."

In response to a question about the offensive line, Saban gave new OL coach, Eric Wolford a strong endorsement.

"I think the personality of their coach has really added to the mentality of that group."

Saban added that he feels more comfortable with the Tide’s running game.

Whether it is Kendall Randolph or Javion Cohen at left guard, Alabama football fans can begin to count on the position group being more consistent than last season.

Talking about other wide receivers, Saban complimented two of the Crimson Tide’s true freshmen. One is the recently converted running back, Emmanuel Henderson. Saban said Henderson was,

"making progress (and could help at the position) before the season is out."

The other freshman wide receiver Nick Saban complimented was Kobe Prentice. Saban was clearly pleased Prentice has taken advantage of the opportunities that came to him as a result of Jojo Earle’s injury. Alabama football insiders believe Prentice has a good chance to start in the slot.

Speaking about the position group battle at cornerback, Saban four or five players are competing for starter roles, as evaluation by the coaching staff continues.

When asked about Punter, James Burnip, Saban said the second-year player has made “a lot of improvement” and that he has “a lot of potential”, but still needs to improve his consistency.

The next media session for Nick Saban is next Monday when the depth chart will be provided.