When the University of Alabama feels disrespected, the results are never good for others.
For its football program, Scott Cochran did something this week that grabbed the attention of players. The school’s director of strength and conditioning destroyed the team’s runner-up trophy from last year’s College Football Playoff title game loss to Clemson.
While it continues to deal with injuries, the Crimson Tide looks to cease all doubters – especially after the conversations from national media pundits on why this year’s group was undeserving of being in the playoff.
Although the video of Cochran was viewed as a little extreme, Alabama junior running back Damien Harris understands why the strength coach went with the tactic.
“That sent a message to our team,” Harris said at today’s media session in Atlanta. “And I hope everyone realized it. We are not here to play for second place. That’s just how we feel.”
What was the reaction in the room when @AlabamaFTBL strength coach Scott Cochran slammed the 2016 runner-up trophy on the floor?@DHx34: pic.twitter.com/Wm5ry8QFGs
— Marty Smith (@MartySmithESPN) January 6, 2018
Prior to this season and 2016, the Tide exuded a feeling of dominance.
Opposition was not able to crack it code, which led to frustration from other coaches and fan bases. In the aftermath of not defeating the Tigers last January and not having the usual impact players that outsiders recognize, it became easy click bait to state how Alabama appears to have lost some luster.
Harris assures next Monday will be different. He is not a fan of second place.
“That’s how we finished last year and we don’t want that feeling anymore,” he said. “We are not here for participation. We are not just glad to be here under the lights. We came here to win.”
He was a primary factor on offense in a 24-6 win over Clemson; however, Harris could receive more work as the Tide battles Georgia on Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium at 7:00 p.m. CT
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
