TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– While some continue to mourn the departure of Lane Kiffin, Alabama head coach Nick Saban has firmly moved on. He’s placed sole confidence in Steve Sarkisian to navigate the offense, and the California native is already making the transition look seamless.
During Wednesday’s presser, Saban said the players have responded “very well” to Sarkisian.
“Practices have been upbeat,” he said. “The energy level has been really good.”
Despite critics stating a disadvantage in switching offensive minds before the national championship game, Saban re-affirmed the press that Sarkisian fully knows the system.
“He’s been with us all year,” Saban said. “I have to make decisions that give our players a chance to win.”
He would rather have a 100 percent Sarkisian, regardless of the timing than an a 30 percent Kiffin—who was obviously more focused on Florida Atlantic. When asked about changing the offense, Saban said “he does want to feature some guys some more”. Alabama would like to get Calvin Ridley and ArDarius Stewart more involved against Clemson, especially after the duo combined for just one reception against Washington.
The Tide’s final day of practice in Tuscaloosa will be on Thursday, and then the team heads to Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, Fla.) to face the Clemson Tigers on Monday, Jan. 9.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
