Jim Harbaugh and Michigan played Alabama in the Citrus Bowl to open the year.
Harbaugh threw shots at Nick Saban and the Southeastern Conference in recent seasons, but his Wolverines took a 35-16 loss to the Crimson Tide in Orlando, Fla. Saban added salt into Harbaugh’s wound in the fourth quarter by having his offense record a 75-yard drive in 12 plays. The possession took nearly six minutes off the clock and Najee Harris scored a 2-yard touchdown.
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This was one of a few moments where the Alabama head football coach ran up the score on an opponent.
Another situation may occur on Saturday, as the Tide battles LSU at Tiger Stadium. Ed Orgeron, like Harbaugh, disrespected Saban and Alabama with his statement after the game. Celebrating on the field of Bryant-Denny Stadium is one thing; however, dropping “F bombs” in the locker room took it too far. For the Tigers, it actually escaped Tuscaloosa (Ala.) with a five-point victory (46-41) and rode the momentum to a national championship. Alabama expects to return the favor to its foe in the SEC West, although it anticipates to win by more than five.
With the explosiveness the Tide has offensively, Steve Sarkisian looks to generate an early lead and work in Bryce Young in the second half.
Should the first-team unit handle business, Saban will have Sarkisian throwing passes with Young at quarterback to continue building his confidence.
The Tide will create a balance, but it will also teach Orgeron and LSU a lesson on saving trash talk, until leaving the stadium.
Alabama has seven straight games with at least 40 points — including a pair of 60-point games.
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One would rather see Saban angry than smiling at a press conference. Despite knowing what to expect from angry Saban, a smiling Saban creates fear. He knows what LSU did and has a plan in place to make sure it does not happen again, especially against Alabama with him at the helm.
Will Saban actually go as far as to run the score up against Orgeron and LSU?
Crimson Tide fans want to see it. Alabama is currently on a mission to win a national championship.
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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 @CoachingMSmith.
