Nick Saban will have one of his old-school generals helping the Crimson Tide prepare for Cincinnati.
Joe Pendry, 74, served as Alabama’s assistant head coach and offensive line coach from 2007-10. He assisted the program to an SEC Championship and a BCS National Championship in the 2009 season.
Pendry’s excellence as a coach propelled Mark Ingram to the school’s first Heisman Memorial Trophy. Since his career began at West Virginia University in 1971, Pendy has coached every offensive position except the tight end.
He retired on Jan. 13, 2011, after 41 years in the coaching profession. Pendry was the general manager for the Birmingham Iron (American Alliance Football League) in 2019, but it did not last.
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According to Saban, Pendry will work on the field with Alabama’s offensive line in practice.
Bill O’Brien and Doug Marrone are set to join the team Wednesday or Thursday at AT&T Stadium for the Cotton Bowl.
Both coaches tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, but they are doing better. O’Brien and Marrone will virtually participate in practices and meetings on Zoom before making the trip to Arlington, Texas.
Pendry has been part of the Crimson Tide program for a long time. He will make sure the offensive front is prepared to handle the Bearcats in the CFP Semifinal.
Pendry is the special assistant to Coach Saban.
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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.
