Post Scrimmage Press Conference Summary
Nick Saban, like many other successful coaches in the college ranks, demands that his team creates an identity that defines its season. This team is well on their way to establishing an identity for the 2010 campaign.
That new identity can is similar to the Policeman's motto: "Protect and Defend."
The defense stepped up its effort in the second scrimmage of the spring. Coach Saban repeatedly stated that he was pleased with the progress of the defense and their ability to put pressure on the quarterback and create turnovers.
Turnovers and interceptions were the result of better defensive play.
"Consistency and performance define success and the players have shown great progress in adopting this strategy," said Saban.
The defensive line is showing expected growth, the secondary is making great strides to improve and perform to expectations. Kendall Kelley is prepared to play safety if he is asked to play the position next season. He is a converted wide receiver. He will continue to be used on offense, as well.
The monster released in Marcel Dareus during the national championship game continued to stalk the ball carrier in Saturday's scrimmage. He finished the day with 10 tackles and five sacks. Dont'a Hightower was not far behind with eight tackles and two sacks.
Robert Lester had four tackles and one interception from the safety position.
Despite the pressure by the defense, Greg McElroy completed 17 of 27 passes for 156 yards and one touchdown (11-yard reception by J. Jones). McElroy threw two interceptions in the scrimmage.
AJ McCarron was successful on 17 of 30 attempts and connected for three touchdowns. True freshman Philip Sims completed 15 of 19 passes for 139 yards and one touchdown. Star Jackson was 10-of-17 for 91 yards.
Julio Jones lead all receivers with 11 receptions for 117 yards and two touchdowns.
Eight others receivers reeled in three or more completions on the day.
The kicking game performed well for the second scrimmage, as they did in the first spring practice game. Cade Foster made four field goals of 27, 32 24 and 33 yards.
Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson and Julio Jones received special commendation for their effort in the scrimmage.
The battle for the third running back position was on this week.
Eddie Lacy had the opportunity to carry the ball 10 times in the scrimmage. He gained 28 yards and scored one touchdown.
Demetrius Goode had three receptions out of the backfield for 79 yards and one touchdown.
Nico Johnson and Chad Lindsey were held out of the scrimmage due to minor knee sprains. There were no significant injuries during this Saturday's scrimmage. Every scholarship quarterback had the opportunity to play in the scrimmage, Saban was pleased with all four—despite the effectiveness of the defensive line.
Alabama has two more practices before the A-day game. They have the opportunity to review the film of the previous two scrimmages in order to make positive strides for the final spring scrimmage. Practices will be held on Tuesday and Thursday.
