The Alabama Crimson Tide may be struggling to find high-quality play from their quarterbacks this season, but that does not mean they are going to roll the clock back to the old days and become a running team. That’s because Nick Saban believes the days of smash-mouth football are over.
Saban took some calls from fans during his weekly “Hey Coach” radio show in Tuscaloosa, including one from someone who told the coach it was time to get back to smash-mouth football. Saban’s response was interesting. Though Saban likes smash-mouth football, it’s no longer feasible.
Caller tells Saban it's time to get back to smash-mouth, Alabama football. Saban: "I'm good with that. I like that kind of ball."
— Marq Burnett (@Marq_Burnett) September 25, 2015
Saban says he wants to get back to the smash-mouth football of the past, but said the game has changed and teams have to open it up more
— Marq Burnett (@Marq_Burnett) September 25, 2015
Why would Saban prefer that style of ball? He likes to control time of possession, minimize turnovers, and let his defense win games. But with the spread and hurry-up offenses, he can’t really do the things he likes and has made changes accordingly. That’s also why he brought in Lane Kiffin as his offensive coordinator.
So, sorry, Bama fans. If you were hoping to see 50 rushes and 20 passes in future games, keep dreaming. Jake Coker will continue to be asked to throw it, but if Saban can go into his awesome bag of tricks, he might be able to help the senior QB.
