Bama certainly seems to be the growing powerhouse in the SEC, and the Western Division in particular. Having beaten Georgia like they did, they certainly have bragging rights. The days of Bama being an assured win are over.
definitely looking that way now. I think the key is they have to stay healthy (and so far, Bama has been extremely lucky) Their first team is as talented as anyone, but depth is a problem for now.
This transition happened the day Alabama hired a guy that can recruit the state. Mike Shula did not even make visits to Mobile, which happens to produce a two star or two a year. Auburn isn't going to be terrible (probably pretty solid), but they are going to be looking up at two teams.
This is where I think Alabama "takes the torch" and runs with it. Recruiting is the life blood of a college football team. Development doesn't mean squat if what you're developing isn't on par with other schools that are good at developing players as well. You can't win the Kentucky Derby with a jackass. Like Slinky or not he can recruit and develop players. He did a helluva job in 2007 recruiting considering he came in late. He then wiped the walls with tubby's azz in 2008. He's on pace to do it again in 2009. All other things being equal in the equation of winning (Recruiting + Development +Coaching) and recruiting is where Saban beats them. I don't think Tubbs is any better of a coach than saban or any better of a developer. At some point those recruiting classes or lack there of for auburn will start to show on the field. There's just no way around it.
Mobile is a very good football area. Jamarcus Russell and Chevis Jackson were better than 2 stars. Six of Rivals top 30 prospects in Alabama this year are in Mobile.
Past history doesn't always guarantee future results-SEE ALABAMA (2000-2007). It appears awbrin (at this stage) doesn't have the same caliber hosses in the backfield or at qb they did a few years ago. The game is still played on the field and come the Iron Bowl both teams will have their opportunity to win it. What this coach did against that coach four years ago will play minimal impact in the game.
