Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide face two Texas teams this fall. The Tide travels to Austin to play the Texas Longhorns on September 10. The Texas A&M Aggies travel to Tuscaloosa on October 8. While the Aggies have become a regular opponent of Alabama, Texas hasn’t faced the Tide since the 2010 BCS National Championship Game. Despite the 2010 loss to Alabama, Texas holds a 7-0-1 record. However, the Alabama record is 11-3 against Texas A&M.
Alabama Visits Longhorns for the First Time in 100 Years
While it may be too early to predict the Alabama vs Texas game, it doesn’t keep fans from creating scenarios in their minds. The memory of Colt McCoy’s injury the last time the two teams met, may cause some to question if Alabama was worthy of the 2010 championship. Despite the injury McCoy suffered in the first quarter of the game, Alabama fans remained faithful to the fight of their team. Alabama’s defense was determined to control McCoy’s throwing game, but was thrown a curve ball when freshman Garrett Gilbert entered the game. Many say McCoy’s injury ended the Longhorns chance against the Crimson Tide. Others say the change in quarterback made the game more difficult for Alabama.
Whether you have an opinion on their last meet up or not, it is undeniable that the Longhorns current coach respects his former head coach. Steve Sarkisian is quick to discuss his time with Alabama and reflects his praises onto Saban. At an opportune time in Sarkisian’s career, Saban handed him the career and confidence he needed to better himself. There is no doubt this respect will reflect on the field this fall when the teams collide. The opportunity for Sarkisian to beat his former mentor could begin a new era for Longhorn football.
Alabama Crimson Tide vs the Aggies: Or Saban vs Fisher?
Football fans across the nation have undoubtedly heard the remarks the two coaches exchanged. While Saban isn’t one to mince words, it is uncommon to become involved in off-season banter. The question remains, will this effect the October 8 meeting between the SEC rivals?
While Alabama can boast about the overall record between the two teams, the Aggies currently have bragging rights. Saban isn’t one to let a loss get him down. The Crimson Tide fights for what is theirs, and won’t make the Aggies visit to Tuscaloosa easy. For the sake of the fans, I hope it is a hard fought battle, both fighting their way to a win. Saban’s 25 win record against former assistants ended last fall against the unranked Aggies. Last season’s upset, and a recent quarrel with Fisher, brings enthusiasm to the October 8 game. This could make the Tide even harder to beat.