17 days ago
Even though it's only Week 2, Florida State's (1-1, 0-1) bye week could not have come at a better time.
The Seminoles looked lethargic against New Mexico State in Week 0 before being clearly the worst team against SMU on Labor Day, with the Seminoles unable to capitalize on winning the turnover margin, essentially by a 4-0 margin.
"Just another close game," head coach Mike Norvell told the local Tallahassee media after the Noles' first defeat on Monday. "A lot of one plays, and you think back through it, some of the explosive plays that we had, that we gave up defensively, some missed opportunities there offensively."
Norvell's job status looms over the program, but the Seminoles have red flags all over the roster right now. Unfortunately for them, there will be no rest for the weary. After the bye week, FSU travels to Tuscaloosa to take on a 12th-ranked Alabama team looking for revenge after the Seminoles' stunning Week 1 upset last year in Tallahassee.
It might get worse before it gets better, as evidenced by these three concerning stats from the opening two weeks of Florida State's season.
#week #Florida #Margin #Mexico
The Seminoles looked lethargic against New Mexico State in Week 0 before being clearly the worst team against SMU on Labor Day, with the Seminoles unable to capitalize on winning the turnover margin, essentially by a 4-0 margin.
"Just another close game," head coach Mike Norvell told the local Tallahassee media after the Noles' first defeat on Monday. "A lot of one plays, and you think back through it, some of the explosive plays that we had, that we gave up defensively, some missed opportunities there offensively."
Norvell's job status looms over the program, but the Seminoles have red flags all over the roster right now. Unfortunately for them, there will be no rest for the weary. After the bye week, FSU travels to Tuscaloosa to take on a 12th-ranked Alabama team looking for revenge after the Seminoles' stunning Week 1 upset last year in Tallahassee.
It might get worse before it gets better, as evidenced by these three concerning stats from the opening two weeks of Florida State's season.
#week #Florida #Margin #Mexico
26 days ago
Why Nate Oats' wife is being hired on Alabama basketball staff originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Alabama Crimson Tide basketball program is keeping it all in the family.
The program announced Thursday that Nate Oats' wife, Alex Accetta, is returning to Tuscaloosa to rejoin his staff in a new role. Accetta previously worked as a student ******* istant in 2015 before she was promoted to operations coordinator two years later. She eventually took over as director of operations in 2021 before leaving for the NBA.
Accetta's new role will be Alabama's director of program relations, according to a release by the school.
"Alex has an extensive background and proven success in this ******* e at both the collegiate and professional levels," Alabama executive deputy AD Shane Lyons said in a statement. "With her previous experience, she has a strong understanding of our program and what it takes to effectively operate at the highest competitive levels.
"She returns to Alabama basketball after four seasons with the NBA Dallas Mavericks, and we expect her professional franchise experience and insights to continue to advance all we do."
This comes at a time when the Mavericks are trying to settle in with Dusty May, who came over from Michigan after winning a national championship.
Oats and Accetta got married earlier this summer on July 26. The couple is 20 years apart in age, with Oats finalizing his divorce from his first wife, Crystal, after 26 years of marriage in 2023.
Alabama finished the 2025-26 season with a Sweet 16 run in the NCAA Tournament. Oats' sixth season in Tuscaloosa and fifth trip to the second weekend in the big dance.
Isaiah Evans' NBA Draft accessories are worth more than his rookie contract
John Calipari says college athletics is broken — Here's his plan to fix it
How Dusty May's Michigan contract, buyout impacts the Dallas Mavericks
#oats #alabama #accetta #wife
The Alabama Crimson Tide basketball program is keeping it all in the family.
The program announced Thursday that Nate Oats' wife, Alex Accetta, is returning to Tuscaloosa to rejoin his staff in a new role. Accetta previously worked as a student ******* istant in 2015 before she was promoted to operations coordinator two years later. She eventually took over as director of operations in 2021 before leaving for the NBA.
Accetta's new role will be Alabama's director of program relations, according to a release by the school.
"Alex has an extensive background and proven success in this ******* e at both the collegiate and professional levels," Alabama executive deputy AD Shane Lyons said in a statement. "With her previous experience, she has a strong understanding of our program and what it takes to effectively operate at the highest competitive levels.
"She returns to Alabama basketball after four seasons with the NBA Dallas Mavericks, and we expect her professional franchise experience and insights to continue to advance all we do."
This comes at a time when the Mavericks are trying to settle in with Dusty May, who came over from Michigan after winning a national championship.
Oats and Accetta got married earlier this summer on July 26. The couple is 20 years apart in age, with Oats finalizing his divorce from his first wife, Crystal, after 26 years of marriage in 2023.
Alabama finished the 2025-26 season with a Sweet 16 run in the NCAA Tournament. Oats' sixth season in Tuscaloosa and fifth trip to the second weekend in the big dance.
Isaiah Evans' NBA Draft accessories are worth more than his rookie contract
John Calipari says college athletics is broken — Here's his plan to fix it
How Dusty May's Michigan contract, buyout impacts the Dallas Mavericks
#oats #alabama #accetta #wife
26 days ago
Germie Bernard has already caught Aaron Rodgers' attention; however, now the rookie is getting a comparison that carries some serious weight in the Pittsburgh Steelers. Former linebacker Vince Williams sees something familiar in Bernard's game, the same kind of versatility that helped JuJu Smith-Schuster make an immediate impact as a rookie.
And that comparison makes the Steelers' receiver situation even more interesting. Bernard is pushing for snaps, Roman Wilson is trying to finally put his talent together, and Rodgers appears convinced both young receivers will matter once the regular season arrives.
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Wide receiver Germie Bernard stretches during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.
On September 3, Williams said Bernard reminds him of the "JuJu mold," according to Steelers Depot. Williams pointed to Bernard's ability to operate underneath, create yards after the catch, and work from multiple receiver spots as reasons the rookie could quickly become a useful weapon for Rodgers and new head coach Mike McCarthy.
"He's a rookie, but I think he's kind of in the JuJu mold. If guys remember how JuJu came on – that rookie season. That rookie season he had veteran wide receivers, a star wide receiver, a veteran quarterback. He could play the three-receiver role. He'll be underneath. Aaron Rodgers loves the underneath passing game, and you see his run-after-catch ability. You see his ability to get in there and catch the ball and, like, turn a five-yard catch into a 10-yard play."
#receiver #steelers
And that comparison makes the Steelers' receiver situation even more interesting. Bernard is pushing for snaps, Roman Wilson is trying to finally put his talent together, and Rodgers appears convinced both young receivers will matter once the regular season arrives.
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Wide receiver Germie Bernard stretches during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.
On September 3, Williams said Bernard reminds him of the "JuJu mold," according to Steelers Depot. Williams pointed to Bernard's ability to operate underneath, create yards after the catch, and work from multiple receiver spots as reasons the rookie could quickly become a useful weapon for Rodgers and new head coach Mike McCarthy.
"He's a rookie, but I think he's kind of in the JuJu mold. If guys remember how JuJu came on – that rookie season. That rookie season he had veteran wide receivers, a star wide receiver, a veteran quarterback. He could play the three-receiver role. He'll be underneath. Aaron Rodgers loves the underneath passing game, and you see his run-after-catch ability. You see his ability to get in there and catch the ball and, like, turn a five-yard catch into a 10-yard play."
#receiver #steelers
26 days ago
Alabama basketball has made two changes to Crimson Tide coach Nate Oats' support staff, including the return of a familiar face to Tuscaloosa.
Alex Accetta has been hired as director of program relations, per an announcement from UA on Thursday, September 3. Accetta previously worked with Alabama men's hoops from 2015 to 2022, starting as a student **** istant before becoming the program's operations coordinator in 2017 and director of operations in 2021. In 2022, she left Alabama for a guest experience role with the NBA's Dallas Mavericks.
The news of Accetta's hire comes shortly after she and Oats married on July 26, 2026.
Josh Pierre, meanwhile, moves from director of basketball operations to director of player development, inheriting the role once held by Christian Pino, who came with Oats from Buffalo and is now on Bryan Hodgson's staff at Providence as a recruiting coordinator.
Pierre has been at Alabama since 2022 after previous stops at Elon, Mississippi State and Arkansas State.
#oats
Alex Accetta has been hired as director of program relations, per an announcement from UA on Thursday, September 3. Accetta previously worked with Alabama men's hoops from 2015 to 2022, starting as a student **** istant before becoming the program's operations coordinator in 2017 and director of operations in 2021. In 2022, she left Alabama for a guest experience role with the NBA's Dallas Mavericks.
The news of Accetta's hire comes shortly after she and Oats married on July 26, 2026.
Josh Pierre, meanwhile, moves from director of basketball operations to director of player development, inheriting the role once held by Christian Pino, who came with Oats from Buffalo and is now on Bryan Hodgson's staff at Providence as a recruiting coordinator.
Pierre has been at Alabama since 2022 after previous stops at Elon, Mississippi State and Arkansas State.
#oats
26 days ago
Kickoff is now only days away for the Alabama Crimson Tide's Week 1 home game against the East Carolina Pirates.
Played this Saturday afternoon in Tuscaloosa, Alabama will be looking to begin the 2026 season with a victory after suffering a Week 1 defeat a year ago, but similar to last fall, it will not be an easy task. That is because East Carolina is a talented team, one that could potentially be among the best in the American Conference this year despite some roster turnover in the offseason.
Alabama still enters Saturday's matchup as a heavy favorite against the Pirates though, and are expected by many across the sport to cruise to a Week 1 win.
Here are three predictions surrounding the Crimson Tide's Week 1 showdown against the Pirates in Tuscaloosa.
While there are still some concerns about Alabama's running game entering the season, I'll say the Crimson Tide put some of those question marks to rest Saturday with a big showing on the ground, racking up 200+ yards overall as a team. A number of running backs will likely see significant action, but I'll go with true freshman Trae'shawn Brown to lead the Crimson Tide in yardage Saturday, a player who has continued to impress dating back to the spring.
#crimson #week #tuscaloosa
Played this Saturday afternoon in Tuscaloosa, Alabama will be looking to begin the 2026 season with a victory after suffering a Week 1 defeat a year ago, but similar to last fall, it will not be an easy task. That is because East Carolina is a talented team, one that could potentially be among the best in the American Conference this year despite some roster turnover in the offseason.
Alabama still enters Saturday's matchup as a heavy favorite against the Pirates though, and are expected by many across the sport to cruise to a Week 1 win.
Here are three predictions surrounding the Crimson Tide's Week 1 showdown against the Pirates in Tuscaloosa.
While there are still some concerns about Alabama's running game entering the season, I'll say the Crimson Tide put some of those question marks to rest Saturday with a big showing on the ground, racking up 200+ yards overall as a team. A number of running backs will likely see significant action, but I'll go with true freshman Trae'shawn Brown to lead the Crimson Tide in yardage Saturday, a player who has continued to impress dating back to the spring.
#crimson #week #tuscaloosa
27 days ago
College football is back in full swing, and it all begins on Thursday night. As for the SEC in particular, there will be one game on Thursday and one game on Friday, before you can see every SEC team play on Saturday — along with Sunday.
In this weekly prediction, we are going to preview three games, and then do a quick-hit style for the remaining games. Here is how we see every game shaping up this weekend for SEC teams.
MORE: Predicting Big Ten football scores in Week 1 — Can Wisconsin upset Notre Dame?
Aug. 17, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell (12) throws at practice for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Alabama enters the game as a four-touchdown favorite, but there are a lot of reasons to see the Crimson Tide on Saturday. While they might not say it, Kalen DeBoer needs to impress this season, and he will be relying on young QB Keelon Russell to get him victories.
#keelon #Football
In this weekly prediction, we are going to preview three games, and then do a quick-hit style for the remaining games. Here is how we see every game shaping up this weekend for SEC teams.
MORE: Predicting Big Ten football scores in Week 1 — Can Wisconsin upset Notre Dame?
Aug. 17, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell (12) throws at practice for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Alabama enters the game as a four-touchdown favorite, but there are a lot of reasons to see the Crimson Tide on Saturday. While they might not say it, Kalen DeBoer needs to impress this season, and he will be relying on young QB Keelon Russell to get him victories.
#keelon #Football
27 days ago
'Keep him away from the sorority girls': Lane Kiffin story from Nick Saban's Alabama days reveals surprising side of LSU coach originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The LSU football program has remained one of the biggest topics ahead of the 2026 season. Since Lane Kiffin was picked up on the tarmac in Oxford, Miss. by Tigers officials, he's been public enemy No. 1 in several circles. Now that he's preparing for his high-profile debut at LSU, the heat has simmered down a bit. That was until Wednesday morning and the timing for Kiffin's haters is golden.
In a Vanity Fair excerpt from author John Talty's book "Lane Being Lane: The Story of Lane Kiffin," which is available on Sept. 15, 2026, we get to see the longtime coach's true colors from a different time in his life. A portion of the book details his time at Alabama on Nick Saban's staff in the mid-2010s.
Kiffin was suspected to be in the midst of a rough patch in life. He was accused of having an affair with his wife, Layla, who divorced him a decade ago, leaving Lane alone as a bachelor-type in Tuscaloosa. But they're back together after their 2016 divorce.
"While Kiffin would not be fired for "banging," off-field behavior did reach Saban's desk. Terry Saban, Nick's wife, had heard through friends that Kiffin, then living separately from his wife Layla and his children who were in California, was out and about on the town trying to pick up women. It led Saban to tell at least one staff member to give Kiffin some helpful advice.
#lane #saban
The LSU football program has remained one of the biggest topics ahead of the 2026 season. Since Lane Kiffin was picked up on the tarmac in Oxford, Miss. by Tigers officials, he's been public enemy No. 1 in several circles. Now that he's preparing for his high-profile debut at LSU, the heat has simmered down a bit. That was until Wednesday morning and the timing for Kiffin's haters is golden.
In a Vanity Fair excerpt from author John Talty's book "Lane Being Lane: The Story of Lane Kiffin," which is available on Sept. 15, 2026, we get to see the longtime coach's true colors from a different time in his life. A portion of the book details his time at Alabama on Nick Saban's staff in the mid-2010s.
Kiffin was suspected to be in the midst of a rough patch in life. He was accused of having an affair with his wife, Layla, who divorced him a decade ago, leaving Lane alone as a bachelor-type in Tuscaloosa. But they're back together after their 2016 divorce.
"While Kiffin would not be fired for "banging," off-field behavior did reach Saban's desk. Terry Saban, Nick's wife, had heard through friends that Kiffin, then living separately from his wife Layla and his children who were in California, was out and about on the town trying to pick up women. It led Saban to tell at least one staff member to give Kiffin some helpful advice.
#lane #saban
28 days ago
After a lengthy offseason, the Alabama Crimson Tide are set to open the 2026 season this Saturday at home against the East Carolina Pirates in Tuscaloosa.
A game set to begin at 11 a.m. CT on ABC, Alabama enters Week 1 as a heavy favorite against East Carolina, and are a popular pick to win this game by multiple touchdowns.
As a result, the Crimson Tide will likely see a number of backups see action in this game Saturday, especially should Alabama build a sizable lead in the first half. This will likely come on both sides of the ball, and could include multiple new faces to the roster this season through their 2026 high school recruiting class, as well as the transfer portal.
A group of names that will be in focus Saturday afternoon, here are three storylines to monitor for the Crimson Tide during Alabama's Week 1 game against East Carolina.
After appearing in only two games last fall as a true freshman, Russell is set to start at quarterback for the first time Saturday against East Carolina after winning the job during the offseason. All eyes will be on Russell's performance in Week 1, as the sophomore is likely set for a big showing against a Pirates defense that was among the best in the American a year ago, allowing only 20.1 points per game.
#tide
A game set to begin at 11 a.m. CT on ABC, Alabama enters Week 1 as a heavy favorite against East Carolina, and are a popular pick to win this game by multiple touchdowns.
As a result, the Crimson Tide will likely see a number of backups see action in this game Saturday, especially should Alabama build a sizable lead in the first half. This will likely come on both sides of the ball, and could include multiple new faces to the roster this season through their 2026 high school recruiting class, as well as the transfer portal.
A group of names that will be in focus Saturday afternoon, here are three storylines to monitor for the Crimson Tide during Alabama's Week 1 game against East Carolina.
After appearing in only two games last fall as a true freshman, Russell is set to start at quarterback for the first time Saturday against East Carolina after winning the job during the offseason. All eyes will be on Russell's performance in Week 1, as the sophomore is likely set for a big showing against a Pirates defense that was among the best in the American a year ago, allowing only 20.1 points per game.
#tide
28 days ago
Kalen DeBoer quieted some outside skepticism about him last season by leading Alabama to its first College Football Playoff appearance in the post-Nick Saban era.
The Crimson Tide not only reached the CFP, but also secured a first-round road victory over SEC rival Oklahoma. That success was rewarded this offseason when Alabama handed DeBoer a new seven-year contract that keeps him in Tuscaloosa through 2033, making him the third-highest-paid coach in college football, according to USA TODAY's salaries database.
So, as the 11th-ranked Crimson Tide enter the 2026 season, is DeBoer facing any hot seat chatter? ESPN's Paul Finebaum believes it's not out of the question.
What we're hearing: CJ Carr is 'unbelievable', Jimbo Fisher wants back in
Hayes: Alabama, Kalen DeBoer are SEC media days afterthought. How the mighty have fallen
#Football
The Crimson Tide not only reached the CFP, but also secured a first-round road victory over SEC rival Oklahoma. That success was rewarded this offseason when Alabama handed DeBoer a new seven-year contract that keeps him in Tuscaloosa through 2033, making him the third-highest-paid coach in college football, according to USA TODAY's salaries database.
So, as the 11th-ranked Crimson Tide enter the 2026 season, is DeBoer facing any hot seat chatter? ESPN's Paul Finebaum believes it's not out of the question.
What we're hearing: CJ Carr is 'unbelievable', Jimbo Fisher wants back in
Hayes: Alabama, Kalen DeBoer are SEC media days afterthought. How the mighty have fallen
#Football
1 month ago
Announced by the program Monday, former Alabama Crimson Tide transfer Dylan Lonergan has been named as the starting quarterback for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
Lonergan, who transferred to Rutgers this past offseason following a season at Boston College, beat out AJ Surace to win the job.
The former Alabama quarterback was originally a member of the Crimson Tide's 2023 recruiting class, and went on to play two seasons in Tuscaloosa as a backup. Lonergan saw action in only three games from 2023-24, completing 7-of-8 passes for 35 yards, along with rushing for 21 yards on two attempts.
Following the 2024 campaign, Lonergan entered the NCAA transfer portal where he eventually committed to Boston College. Lonergan ended up enjoying a breakout season a year ago at Boston College, completing 66.9% of passes for 2,025 yards and a 12:5 TD:INT ratio across 10 games prior to entering the transfer portal at seasons end for the second time.
Rutgers' 2026 season is set to begin Thursday, Sept. 3, at home against UMass. The Scarlet Knights will also travel to Boston College in Week 2.
#rutgers #crimson
Lonergan, who transferred to Rutgers this past offseason following a season at Boston College, beat out AJ Surace to win the job.
The former Alabama quarterback was originally a member of the Crimson Tide's 2023 recruiting class, and went on to play two seasons in Tuscaloosa as a backup. Lonergan saw action in only three games from 2023-24, completing 7-of-8 passes for 35 yards, along with rushing for 21 yards on two attempts.
Following the 2024 campaign, Lonergan entered the NCAA transfer portal where he eventually committed to Boston College. Lonergan ended up enjoying a breakout season a year ago at Boston College, completing 66.9% of passes for 2,025 yards and a 12:5 TD:INT ratio across 10 games prior to entering the transfer portal at seasons end for the second time.
Rutgers' 2026 season is set to begin Thursday, Sept. 3, at home against UMass. The Scarlet Knights will also travel to Boston College in Week 2.
#rutgers #crimson
1 month ago
The Alabama high school fall sports season has begun, and The Tuscaloosa News is back with our Athletes of the Week.
Readers can decide which athlete from the Tuscaloosa area had the most impressive performance each week. Below are our Girls Athlete of the Week nominees and poll for the beginning of the fall sports season, Aug. 20-21. There is a separate poll for The Tuscaloosa News Boys Athlete of the Week.
Nominees for athlete of the week come from our top performers list the week before. Coaches and team stat keepers can send in stats to nominate players for top performer lists to sportstuscaloosanews.com by 11 p.m. Friday.
Voting will last until noon Thursday, Aug. 27.
TOP PERFORMERS: Hale County's Marcus Bryant Jr. leads top performers with 6 touchdowns
#athlete #performers #nominees #alabama
Readers can decide which athlete from the Tuscaloosa area had the most impressive performance each week. Below are our Girls Athlete of the Week nominees and poll for the beginning of the fall sports season, Aug. 20-21. There is a separate poll for The Tuscaloosa News Boys Athlete of the Week.
Nominees for athlete of the week come from our top performers list the week before. Coaches and team stat keepers can send in stats to nominate players for top performer lists to sportstuscaloosanews.com by 11 p.m. Friday.
Voting will last until noon Thursday, Aug. 27.
TOP PERFORMERS: Hale County's Marcus Bryant Jr. leads top performers with 6 touchdowns
#athlete #performers #nominees #alabama
1 month ago
The Alabama high school fall sports season has begun, and The Tuscaloosa News is back with our Athletes of the Week.
Readers can decide which athlete from the Tuscaloosa area had the most impressive performance each week. Below are our Boys Athlete of the Week nominees and poll for the beginning of the fall sports season, Aug. 20-21. There is a separate poll for The Tuscaloosa News Girls Athlete of the Week.
Nominees for athlete of the week come from our top performers list the week before. Coaches and team stat keepers can send in stats to nominate players for top performer lists to sportstuscaloosanews.com by 11 p.m. Friday.
Voting will last until noon Thursday, Aug. 27.
TOP PERFORMERS: Hale County's Marcus Bryant Jr. leads top performers with 6 touchdowns
#tuscaloosa #nominees #alabama
Readers can decide which athlete from the Tuscaloosa area had the most impressive performance each week. Below are our Boys Athlete of the Week nominees and poll for the beginning of the fall sports season, Aug. 20-21. There is a separate poll for The Tuscaloosa News Girls Athlete of the Week.
Nominees for athlete of the week come from our top performers list the week before. Coaches and team stat keepers can send in stats to nominate players for top performer lists to sportstuscaloosanews.com by 11 p.m. Friday.
Voting will last until noon Thursday, Aug. 27.
TOP PERFORMERS: Hale County's Marcus Bryant Jr. leads top performers with 6 touchdowns
#tuscaloosa #nominees #alabama
1 month ago
Texas A&M's 2026 season opener vs. Missouri State on Saturday, Sept. 5, is just two weeks away, and after a dozen preseason practices, third-year coach Mike Elko and his staff, now including first-year OC Holmon Wiggins and DC Lyle Hemphill, should feel pretty confident that the revamped 2026 roster is ready for the new season, especially redshirt quarterback Marcel Reed.
The Aggies' new nine-game SEC schedule, which includes five brutal road matchups vs. LSU, Missouri, Alabama, South Carolina, and Oklahoma, will more than likely determine if Mike Elko can lead his team back to the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive season after losing to eventual national runner-up Miami in the first round.
Texas A&M could enter the Week 8 road battle vs. Alabama in Tuscaloosa at 6-1 or 7-0 based on the Aggies' favorability in earlier matchups, while Marcel Reed, who is entering his second full starting season, holds a slight advantage under center, but on Saturday, Alabama's starting quarterback battle came to a close, as former five-star and redshirt sophomore QB Keelon Russell has reportedly won the job.
On paper, this could be a low-scoring game given both teams' deep secondaries, which can prevent explosive passing plays, and the pressure on Reed and Russell to make efficient throws and move the chains, and based on Alabama's early schedule vs. East Carolina, Kentucky, Florida State, South Carolina, Mississippi State, Georgia, and Tennessee, will Keelon Russell still be the starter by then?
My guess? Yes, based on his high NFL upside and ability to make plays with his legs, providing Coach Kalen DeBoer with the most complete quarterback he's had since arriving in Tuscaloosa.
#missouri
The Aggies' new nine-game SEC schedule, which includes five brutal road matchups vs. LSU, Missouri, Alabama, South Carolina, and Oklahoma, will more than likely determine if Mike Elko can lead his team back to the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive season after losing to eventual national runner-up Miami in the first round.
Texas A&M could enter the Week 8 road battle vs. Alabama in Tuscaloosa at 6-1 or 7-0 based on the Aggies' favorability in earlier matchups, while Marcel Reed, who is entering his second full starting season, holds a slight advantage under center, but on Saturday, Alabama's starting quarterback battle came to a close, as former five-star and redshirt sophomore QB Keelon Russell has reportedly won the job.
On paper, this could be a low-scoring game given both teams' deep secondaries, which can prevent explosive passing plays, and the pressure on Reed and Russell to make efficient throws and move the chains, and based on Alabama's early schedule vs. East Carolina, Kentucky, Florida State, South Carolina, Mississippi State, Georgia, and Tennessee, will Keelon Russell still be the starter by then?
My guess? Yes, based on his high NFL upside and ability to make plays with his legs, providing Coach Kalen DeBoer with the most complete quarterback he's had since arriving in Tuscaloosa.
#missouri
1 month ago
An Alabama jury determined on Thursday, August 20 that former Alabama men's basketball player Kai Spears was defamed by The New York Times for an article that inaccurately linked him to the scene of a fatal shooting. As part of the ruling, which came after five hours of deliberation and two weeks of testimony in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Spears was awarded $9.25 million in damages. In March 2023, the newspaper reported that Spears, a walk-on that season for the top-ranked Crimson Tide, was in the passenger seat of former Alabama star and current Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller's car during the deadly shooting of Jamea Harris in Tuscaloosa. It was later revealed that the passenger in the car was a team manager, not Spears.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: An Alabama jury determined on Thursday, August 20 that …
#determined #former #shooting
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: An Alabama jury determined on Thursday, August 20 that …
#determined #former #shooting
1 month ago
An Alabama jury determined on Thursday, August 20 that former Alabama men's basketball player Kai Spears was defamed by The New York Times for an article that inaccurately linked him to the scene of a fatal shooting.
As part of the ruling, which came after five hours of deliberation and two weeks of testimony in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Spears was awarded $9.25 million in damages.
In March 2023, the newspaper reported that Spears, a walk-on that season for the top-ranked Crimson Tide, was in the passenger seat of former Alabama star and current Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller's car during the deadly shooting of Jamea Harris in Tuscaloosa. It was later revealed that the passenger in the car was a team manager, not Spears.
REQUIRED READING: SEC commissioner Greg Sankey voices objections to pro athletes returning to college
Spears filed a lawsuit against the outlet for defamation and "false light" invasion of privacy, claiming it caused him emotional distress for linking his name to a high-profile murder. The Times later issued a correction and added an editor's note following Spears' lawsuit.
#later
As part of the ruling, which came after five hours of deliberation and two weeks of testimony in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Spears was awarded $9.25 million in damages.
In March 2023, the newspaper reported that Spears, a walk-on that season for the top-ranked Crimson Tide, was in the passenger seat of former Alabama star and current Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller's car during the deadly shooting of Jamea Harris in Tuscaloosa. It was later revealed that the passenger in the car was a team manager, not Spears.
REQUIRED READING: SEC commissioner Greg Sankey voices objections to pro athletes returning to college
Spears filed a lawsuit against the outlet for defamation and "false light" invasion of privacy, claiming it caused him emotional distress for linking his name to a high-profile murder. The Times later issued a correction and added an editor's note following Spears' lawsuit.
#later
1 month ago
This time 15 years ago, now-NFL quarterback Jameis Winston was still deciding where he wanted to spend his college career.
In December of 2011, he took an official visit to Alabama after two unofficial visits earlier that fall. It wasn't a long trip.
Winston is from Hueytown, just about 45 minutes east of Tuscaloosa. That distance was "too close," Winston said during a round of golf in a soon-to-be-released episode of his YouTube podcast "Wonder In Authority."
According to Winston, though, that didn't stop then-coach Nick Saban from seeing if he had a trick in his straw hat to sway him toward the Crimson Tide. Baseball was the defining factor in Winston's college decision, and Winston claims that Saban made a bold request to Alabama's baseball coach at the time.
REQUIRED READING: Inside the $42M stadium renovation that reshaped Alabama baseball's future
#college
In December of 2011, he took an official visit to Alabama after two unofficial visits earlier that fall. It wasn't a long trip.
Winston is from Hueytown, just about 45 minutes east of Tuscaloosa. That distance was "too close," Winston said during a round of golf in a soon-to-be-released episode of his YouTube podcast "Wonder In Authority."
According to Winston, though, that didn't stop then-coach Nick Saban from seeing if he had a trick in his straw hat to sway him toward the Crimson Tide. Baseball was the defining factor in Winston's college decision, and Winston claims that Saban made a bold request to Alabama's baseball coach at the time.
REQUIRED READING: Inside the $42M stadium renovation that reshaped Alabama baseball's future
#college
1 month ago
The Alabama high school football season is here, right here, right now.
The 2026 AHSAA football season kicks off Thursday, Aug. 20, and ultimately leads to the first round of the AHSAA playoffs on Nov. 6, with four rounds determining which teams advance to the state championships Dec. 2-5.
Week 0 has the rare magic of a spotless season, high aspirations and any possibility still on the table. To kick off play in the Tuscaloosa area, Northridge will face off at American Christian Academy on Thursday, while historic rivalries like Fayette County at Gordo and Hillcrest at Tuscaloosa County take the stage Friday.
Follow all the action happening in Week 0 of the 2026 AHSAA football season across the Tuscaloosa area with live score updates below. This story will be updated until all games are complete.
RANKINGS: AHSAA football rankings ahead of 2026 season from Tuscaloosa area
#ahsaa #season #area #rankings
The 2026 AHSAA football season kicks off Thursday, Aug. 20, and ultimately leads to the first round of the AHSAA playoffs on Nov. 6, with four rounds determining which teams advance to the state championships Dec. 2-5.
Week 0 has the rare magic of a spotless season, high aspirations and any possibility still on the table. To kick off play in the Tuscaloosa area, Northridge will face off at American Christian Academy on Thursday, while historic rivalries like Fayette County at Gordo and Hillcrest at Tuscaloosa County take the stage Friday.
Follow all the action happening in Week 0 of the 2026 AHSAA football season across the Tuscaloosa area with live score updates below. This story will be updated until all games are complete.
RANKINGS: AHSAA football rankings ahead of 2026 season from Tuscaloosa area
#ahsaa #season #area #rankings
2 months ago
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Alabama running back AK Dear is expected to miss about six weeks because of an ankle injury sustained in a preseason scrimmage, according to reports.
Crimson Tide coach Kalen DeBoer said Thursday that Dear was injured in the first of two scrimmages and would be evaluated. Tests revealed the severity of the injury, 247Sports and On3 reported Friday.
"It was unfortunate because he was having a real nice scrimmage there with the touches he got," DeBoer said.
Dear, a redshirt freshman from Mississippi, had been in the mix for the starting job to replace Jam Miller. The Crimson Tide will now turn to highly touted freshman Trae'shawn Brown, EJ Crowell and Daniel Hill. Hill led the team with six rushing touchdowns in 2025.
Dear had 140 yards rushing and three scores in five games.
#scrimmage
Crimson Tide coach Kalen DeBoer said Thursday that Dear was injured in the first of two scrimmages and would be evaluated. Tests revealed the severity of the injury, 247Sports and On3 reported Friday.
"It was unfortunate because he was having a real nice scrimmage there with the touches he got," DeBoer said.
Dear, a redshirt freshman from Mississippi, had been in the mix for the starting job to replace Jam Miller. The Crimson Tide will now turn to highly touted freshman Trae'shawn Brown, EJ Crowell and Daniel Hill. Hill led the team with six rushing touchdowns in 2025.
Dear had 140 yards rushing and three scores in five games.
#scrimmage
2 months ago
Big plays don't only come from the offense or defense.
Across the Tuscaloosa area, some of the most valuable players on Friday nights make their impact on special teams. With the high school football season approaching, we've put together a list of 17 local special teams standouts. Now, we want to know which player fans think deserves the top spot.
Readers can cast their vote now in our poll below. Voting closes at noon Tuesday, Aug. 18.
REQUIRED READING: 2026 high school football special teams players to watch near Tuscaloosa
MORE: AHSAA public-private split reshapes Tuscaloosa Academy's path back to playoffs
#special #players #school #Friday
Across the Tuscaloosa area, some of the most valuable players on Friday nights make their impact on special teams. With the high school football season approaching, we've put together a list of 17 local special teams standouts. Now, we want to know which player fans think deserves the top spot.
Readers can cast their vote now in our poll below. Voting closes at noon Tuesday, Aug. 18.
REQUIRED READING: 2026 high school football special teams players to watch near Tuscaloosa
MORE: AHSAA public-private split reshapes Tuscaloosa Academy's path back to playoffs
#special #players #school #Friday
2 months ago
Tennessee has some questions entering this season, but depth at the skill positions isn't one of them. Particularly at tight end, where Tennessee lost Miles Kitselman, the Volunteers are locked and loaded with guys like Ethan Davis, Trent Thomas, DaSaahn Brame, Cole Harrison, Luca Wolf and Drake Martinez.
Easily the most coveted prospect of the group is Brame, who chose Tennessee over Oregon two recruiting cycles ago. The Derby, Kansas native was a 4-star prospect ranking inside of the top 50 overall by On3. Standing in at 6-5, 240 pounds, Brame is a matchup nightmare waiting to happen.
Going into year two and moving up a notch or two on the depth chart, Brame should have plenty more opportunities as a sophomore this season.
"One, just mastery of the offense, knowing what to do," Tennessee tight ends coach Alec Abeln said of Brame. "It's hard to do anything at a high level until you feel really confident in what you're doing. I think to the last point, man, the work that those guys have done in the weight room, um, on the field, those guys are moving better, they're stronger, more explosive, allowing him to translate in the box a little bit more. And I'm really excited to see what he'll do this camp."
Brame, just like many others on the roster, is up ten pounds from last season's listing. He appeared in nine games as a true freshman despite being buried at fourth on the depth chart. Brame ended up catching six passes for 63 yards, three of which came against Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Interestingly enough, Brame was also used a bit as a slot option later in the year as the injuries piled up.
#prospect
Easily the most coveted prospect of the group is Brame, who chose Tennessee over Oregon two recruiting cycles ago. The Derby, Kansas native was a 4-star prospect ranking inside of the top 50 overall by On3. Standing in at 6-5, 240 pounds, Brame is a matchup nightmare waiting to happen.
Going into year two and moving up a notch or two on the depth chart, Brame should have plenty more opportunities as a sophomore this season.
"One, just mastery of the offense, knowing what to do," Tennessee tight ends coach Alec Abeln said of Brame. "It's hard to do anything at a high level until you feel really confident in what you're doing. I think to the last point, man, the work that those guys have done in the weight room, um, on the field, those guys are moving better, they're stronger, more explosive, allowing him to translate in the box a little bit more. And I'm really excited to see what he'll do this camp."
Brame, just like many others on the roster, is up ten pounds from last season's listing. He appeared in nine games as a true freshman despite being buried at fourth on the depth chart. Brame ended up catching six passes for 63 yards, three of which came against Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Interestingly enough, Brame was also used a bit as a slot option later in the year as the injuries piled up.
#prospect
2 months ago
Texas A&M's 2026 schedule, per ESPN's latest FPI rankings, is the 9th-toughest in the SEC, while Arkansas (1), Oklahoma (2), and the Texas Longhorns (3) round out the top 3. Last season, the Aggies finished 11-2 with just one regular-season loss to the Longhorns at the end of the year, but earned impressive road wins over Notre Dame, LSU, and Missouri en route to the Aggies' first College Football Playoff berth.
Texas A&M will host Missouri State and Arizona State before Kentucky comes to College Station, followed by an early road trip to Baton Rouge against LSU and new head coach Lane Kiffin. For the Aggies to have any shot at making it back to the CFP, staying undefeated, or dropping just one game before taking on Alabama in Tuscaloosa on October 24 is absolutely critical.
After a record 10 players were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, third-year coach Mike Elko returns 65% of his 2025 roster, combined with 17 players from the transfer portal and the 2026 signing class. Led by redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, the Aggies will have a shot to match last season's record, but the second half of the schedule will all but determine A&M's postseason hopes.
Facing LSU, Missouri, Alabama, South Carolina, and Oklahoma on the road, coupled with hosting Texas in the annual Lone Star Showdown. We ranked each matchup from easiest to toughest for the 2026 season.
Citadel finished 4-8 last season, but the Bulldogs were competitive in all but three of their eight losses and likely won't present a challenge for Texas A&M a week after the Aggies face Missouri on the road. This should be a blowout, on paper, at least.
#missouri #last
Texas A&M will host Missouri State and Arizona State before Kentucky comes to College Station, followed by an early road trip to Baton Rouge against LSU and new head coach Lane Kiffin. For the Aggies to have any shot at making it back to the CFP, staying undefeated, or dropping just one game before taking on Alabama in Tuscaloosa on October 24 is absolutely critical.
After a record 10 players were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, third-year coach Mike Elko returns 65% of his 2025 roster, combined with 17 players from the transfer portal and the 2026 signing class. Led by redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, the Aggies will have a shot to match last season's record, but the second half of the schedule will all but determine A&M's postseason hopes.
Facing LSU, Missouri, Alabama, South Carolina, and Oklahoma on the road, coupled with hosting Texas in the annual Lone Star Showdown. We ranked each matchup from easiest to toughest for the 2026 season.
Citadel finished 4-8 last season, but the Bulldogs were competitive in all but three of their eight losses and likely won't present a challenge for Texas A&M a week after the Aggies face Missouri on the road. This should be a blowout, on paper, at least.
#missouri #last
2 months ago
As announced by the program, Alabama baseball's Bryce Fowler and Hagan Banks have signed with the Minnesota Twins.
A pair of redshirt seniors on Alabama's CWS team this past spring, both of Fowler and Banks were not selected in the 2026 MLB draft, and will now begin their professional career's in the minor leagues of Minnesota's organization.
Fowler joined the Crimson Tide prior to the 2025 season from Pearl River Community College, and went on to start during both seasons in Tuscaloosa as one of Alabama's top defensive players. Across his 121 games played, Fowler slashed a combined .294/.397/.442 with 13 home runs, 83 RBI, and 27 stolen bases, while also leading the Crimson Tide with a .320 batting average this past spring.
Banks spent all five seasons of his collegiate career in Tuscaloosa from 2022-26, emerging as Alabama's closer this past spring. The right-hander made 63 career appearances for Alabama over that span with seven starts, posting a combined 3-4 record with a 3.59 ERA, a 105:33 K:BB ratio, and six saves across 95.1 innings pitched.
Other former Alabama players currently in the Twins' organization include pitchers Connor Prielipp, Riley Quick, Hunter Hoopes, and Jonathan Stevens.
#tide #tuscaloosa
A pair of redshirt seniors on Alabama's CWS team this past spring, both of Fowler and Banks were not selected in the 2026 MLB draft, and will now begin their professional career's in the minor leagues of Minnesota's organization.
Fowler joined the Crimson Tide prior to the 2025 season from Pearl River Community College, and went on to start during both seasons in Tuscaloosa as one of Alabama's top defensive players. Across his 121 games played, Fowler slashed a combined .294/.397/.442 with 13 home runs, 83 RBI, and 27 stolen bases, while also leading the Crimson Tide with a .320 batting average this past spring.
Banks spent all five seasons of his collegiate career in Tuscaloosa from 2022-26, emerging as Alabama's closer this past spring. The right-hander made 63 career appearances for Alabama over that span with seven starts, posting a combined 3-4 record with a 3.59 ERA, a 105:33 K:BB ratio, and six saves across 95.1 innings pitched.
Other former Alabama players currently in the Twins' organization include pitchers Connor Prielipp, Riley Quick, Hunter Hoopes, and Jonathan Stevens.
#tide #tuscaloosa
2 months ago
As a quarterback battle brews in Tuscaloosa, Nick Saban sees a parallel with one of the most uncertain preseasons of his coaching career with Alabama football.
During an appearance on SEC Network on Wednesday, July 22, the legendary coach reflected on the Crimson Tide's turbulent 2015 quarterback competition, when three different QBs saw action through Alabama's first three games before Jake ***** er ultimately led the program to a national championship.
Those days are gone, and the Kalen DeBoer era has arrived. The current offense isn't loaded with weapons like Derrick Henry or Calvin Ridley, but instead returns the least amount of production in the SEC.
"We just needed a quarterback to manage the game and not mess it up, and (to) be able to throw the ball down the field and complement the great running game we have," Saban said of the 2015 situation.
While the circumstances aren't identical, Saban believes Alabama once again has multiple quarterbacks capable of winning games on its roster.
#saban
During an appearance on SEC Network on Wednesday, July 22, the legendary coach reflected on the Crimson Tide's turbulent 2015 quarterback competition, when three different QBs saw action through Alabama's first three games before Jake ***** er ultimately led the program to a national championship.
Those days are gone, and the Kalen DeBoer era has arrived. The current offense isn't loaded with weapons like Derrick Henry or Calvin Ridley, but instead returns the least amount of production in the SEC.
"We just needed a quarterback to manage the game and not mess it up, and (to) be able to throw the ball down the field and complement the great running game we have," Saban said of the 2015 situation.
While the circumstances aren't identical, Saban believes Alabama once again has multiple quarterbacks capable of winning games on its roster.
#saban
2 months ago
Hundreds of bicyclists will participate in a July 25 race that will raise money for the nonprofit United Cerebral Palsy of West Alabama.
The 24rd annual Hot Hundred bike ride, nicknamed the "Hottest ride in the South" will be held beginning at 7 a.m. July 25. The event will begin and finish at Parker-Haun Park on the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk.
The Hot Hundred is presented by the Druid City Bicycle Club.
The ride features five different route options, ranging from 24 to 102 miles, with a police escort and several rest stops along the way.
Registration costs $65 and will close at 11:59 p.m. July 24. For more information, visit https://www.bikehothundred...
#ride #hundreds #united #hottest
The 24rd annual Hot Hundred bike ride, nicknamed the "Hottest ride in the South" will be held beginning at 7 a.m. July 25. The event will begin and finish at Parker-Haun Park on the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk.
The Hot Hundred is presented by the Druid City Bicycle Club.
The ride features five different route options, ranging from 24 to 102 miles, with a police escort and several rest stops along the way.
Registration costs $65 and will close at 11:59 p.m. July 24. For more information, visit https://www.bikehothundred...
#ride #hundreds #united #hottest
3 months ago
The MLB Draft is almost here as Alabama baseball fans anticipate a third consecutive first-rounder being named for the Crimson Tide.
Following up Ben Hess, who broke an 18-year-long drought in 2024, and Riley Quick, Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron is expected to join the ranks of Crimson Tide first-round picks.
Lebron finished his time in Tuscaloosa with a .309 batting average, tallying 46 home runs with 66 career steals in 68 attempts. In mock drafts, he is widely projected to go somewhere around the 14th through 16th pick.
Here's how to watch the 2026 MLB Draft:
REQUIRED READING: How Alabama baseball's Justin Lebron used NIL money to change family's life
Following up Ben Hess, who broke an 18-year-long drought in 2024, and Riley Quick, Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron is expected to join the ranks of Crimson Tide first-round picks.
Lebron finished his time in Tuscaloosa with a .309 batting average, tallying 46 home runs with 66 career steals in 68 attempts. In mock drafts, he is widely projected to go somewhere around the 14th through 16th pick.
Here's how to watch the 2026 MLB Draft:
REQUIRED READING: How Alabama baseball's Justin Lebron used NIL money to change family's life
3 months ago
The Alabama Crimson Tide will enter the 2026 season with a plethora of new faces on both sides of the football.
Alabama lost a handful of talent from last years' team to both the transfer portal and NFL draft this offseason. The Tide have a promising mix of young and veteran talent, despite some key departures, and Alabama could quickly emerge as one of the top teams in all of college football this upcoming season nonetheless.
A multitude of Crimson Tide playmakers could emerge as X-factors in 2026 as well. A prediction regarding Alabama's most productive player at each position this upcoming season can be found below.
Russell is an extremely talented quarterback who could quickly become a star this season. The sophomore was ranked as the No. 2 overall player from the class of 2025, per the 247Sports Composite, and Russell may shine as the Crimson Tide's signal caller this season if he ultimately wins the job over fellow quarterback Austin Mack.
Russell flashed elite potential in 2025 despite appearing in just two games, and the rising star will once again look to shine in Tuscaloosa this season.
Alabama lost a handful of talent from last years' team to both the transfer portal and NFL draft this offseason. The Tide have a promising mix of young and veteran talent, despite some key departures, and Alabama could quickly emerge as one of the top teams in all of college football this upcoming season nonetheless.
A multitude of Crimson Tide playmakers could emerge as X-factors in 2026 as well. A prediction regarding Alabama's most productive player at each position this upcoming season can be found below.
Russell is an extremely talented quarterback who could quickly become a star this season. The sophomore was ranked as the No. 2 overall player from the class of 2025, per the 247Sports Composite, and Russell may shine as the Crimson Tide's signal caller this season if he ultimately wins the job over fellow quarterback Austin Mack.
Russell flashed elite potential in 2025 despite appearing in just two games, and the rising star will once again look to shine in Tuscaloosa this season.
3 months ago
The 2026 high school football season has almost arrived in the Tuscaloosa area.
Local teams kickoff the season Aug. 20-22, with the regular season running through Oct. 30. Region games will help determine playoff positioning before the AHSAA postseason begins in November. The AHSAA football championship games take place the first week of December.
This is the first year the AHSAA decision for a postseason public-private split will be implemented, bringing about big changes for local private schools and shifting around teams' classes and regions.
As summer workouts slow and official practices near, here are the complete 2026 AHSAA football weekly schedules for Tuscaloosa-area teams:
PRESEASON: 50 days, 50 questions on Tuscaloosa high school football before 2026 season
Local teams kickoff the season Aug. 20-22, with the regular season running through Oct. 30. Region games will help determine playoff positioning before the AHSAA postseason begins in November. The AHSAA football championship games take place the first week of December.
This is the first year the AHSAA decision for a postseason public-private split will be implemented, bringing about big changes for local private schools and shifting around teams' classes and regions.
As summer workouts slow and official practices near, here are the complete 2026 AHSAA football weekly schedules for Tuscaloosa-area teams:
PRESEASON: 50 days, 50 questions on Tuscaloosa high school football before 2026 season
3 months ago
Happy Thursday everyone. Yesterday we were honoring the day by Gumping over Keelon Russell's Heisman candidacy, but Charlie Potter thinks that Austin Mack is still very much alive in the race and might even have an edge.
Very interesting, but I still fully expect Russell to win the job.
Nick Kelly continues to hear great things about Devan Thompkins.
The Southern Cal transfer didn't have eye-popping stats out west, but all early indications out of Tuscaloosa are that he's got a real chance to became an instant game wrecker in his first season with the Crimson Tide.
"Once we got to know him and you started doing your research from his time at USC, you know this guy's a captain, he's a leader," defensive coordinator Kane Wommack said in the spring. "He carries himself with a professional demeanor day-in and day-out.
Very interesting, but I still fully expect Russell to win the job.
Nick Kelly continues to hear great things about Devan Thompkins.
The Southern Cal transfer didn't have eye-popping stats out west, but all early indications out of Tuscaloosa are that he's got a real chance to became an instant game wrecker in his first season with the Crimson Tide.
"Once we got to know him and you started doing your research from his time at USC, you know this guy's a captain, he's a leader," defensive coordinator Kane Wommack said in the spring. "He carries himself with a professional demeanor day-in and day-out.
3 months ago
An in-state opponent is reportedly on the docket for Alabama basketball's 2026-27 schedule.
The Crimson Tide will face Samford, according to a social media post by basketball insider Rocco Miller.
A date has yet to be announced. However, the Bulldogs are set to travel from Birmingham to Coleman Coliseum, where the two programs will meet for the first time since 2010.
When Alabama and Samford last faced off, the Crimson Tide won 79-60 in Tuscaloosa. Most recently, the Bulldogs finished the 2025-26 season with an 18-14 record to mark Lennie Acuff's first season as head coach.
REQUIRED READING: Alabama basketball Final Four member returns to state to play for Troy
The Crimson Tide will face Samford, according to a social media post by basketball insider Rocco Miller.
A date has yet to be announced. However, the Bulldogs are set to travel from Birmingham to Coleman Coliseum, where the two programs will meet for the first time since 2010.
When Alabama and Samford last faced off, the Crimson Tide won 79-60 in Tuscaloosa. Most recently, the Bulldogs finished the 2025-26 season with an 18-14 record to mark Lennie Acuff's first season as head coach.
REQUIRED READING: Alabama basketball Final Four member returns to state to play for Troy
3 months ago
Few teams in college football will face a more difficult path in 2026 than the Florida State Seminoles. According to a new ranking from On3's Andy Staples, the Seminoles have the toughest schedule in the ACC entering the 2026 season, finishing ahead of the Clemson Tigers, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, North Carolina Tar Heels, and Boston College Eagles.
While Florida State is one of five conference teams slated to play only eight ACC games as part of the league's transition to a new scheduling model, the Seminoles' schedule features a daunting combination of conference contenders, rivalry games and marquee non-conference matchups. From a Labor Day showdown against SMU to a road trip to Alabama and late-season games against Clemson and Florida, Mike Norvell's team will have little margin for error as it looks to rebound in 2026.
The Seminoles begin with a Week 0 tune-up against New Mexico State, but the degree of difficulty increases immediately. Florida State then hosts SMU, welcoming a program that has gone 14-2 in ACC regular-season play since joining the conference.
After an early bye week, Florida State travels to Tuscaloosa on Sept. 19 for a rematch with Alabama. The Seminoles stunned the Crimson Tide last season, setting up one of the most anticipated non-conference games of the 2026 campaign.
The heart of the ACC schedule may be even more challenging. On3 identified Florida State's stretch of Virginia, Louisville and Miami as the toughest three-week run handed out by the conference schedule-makers this season. The Seminoles host Virginia on Oct. 3 before traveling to Louisville the following Friday and then heading to Miami just eight days later.
While Florida State is one of five conference teams slated to play only eight ACC games as part of the league's transition to a new scheduling model, the Seminoles' schedule features a daunting combination of conference contenders, rivalry games and marquee non-conference matchups. From a Labor Day showdown against SMU to a road trip to Alabama and late-season games against Clemson and Florida, Mike Norvell's team will have little margin for error as it looks to rebound in 2026.
The Seminoles begin with a Week 0 tune-up against New Mexico State, but the degree of difficulty increases immediately. Florida State then hosts SMU, welcoming a program that has gone 14-2 in ACC regular-season play since joining the conference.
After an early bye week, Florida State travels to Tuscaloosa on Sept. 19 for a rematch with Alabama. The Seminoles stunned the Crimson Tide last season, setting up one of the most anticipated non-conference games of the 2026 campaign.
The heart of the ACC schedule may be even more challenging. On3 identified Florida State's stretch of Virginia, Louisville and Miami as the toughest three-week run handed out by the conference schedule-makers this season. The Seminoles host Virginia on Oct. 3 before traveling to Louisville the following Friday and then heading to Miami just eight days later.
