2007 Alabama Crimson Tide football team

American college football season February 2026 August 2023 2007 Alabama Crimson Tide football Alabama Crimson Tide logo.svg 150 Southeastern Conference Western Division SEC 2–6 1–4 5 3 Nick Saban 1st Major Applewhite 1st Pro-style Kevin Steele 1st 3–4 Antoine Caldwell Rashad Johnson Darren Mustin Bryant–Denny Stadium Independence Bowl champion Independence Bowl W Won 30–24 vs. Colorado The 2007 Alabama Crimson Tide football team represented the University of Alabama as a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) during the 2007 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Led by first-year head coach Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide compiled an overall record of 7–6 with a mark of 4–4 in conference play, placing in a three-way tie for third in the SEC's Western Division. Alabama was invited to the Independence Bowl, where the Crimson Tide defeated Colorado. The team played home games at Bryant–Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Despite a strong 6–2 start, Alabama finished the regular season with four straight defeats, including a loss for a sixth-straight year to rival Auburn. In 2009, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) levied sanctions against Alabama, forcing the Crimson Tide to vacate five wins, including three conference victories, from the season.Estes Gentry March 23, 2010 NCAA upholds vacated wins penalties in the University of Alabama's textbook case (Updated with UA reaction) https://www.al.com/bamabeat/2010/03/ncaa_upholds_penalties_in_the.html 2024-12-28 AL.com Mobile Press-Registerhttps://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/friv/forfeits.html Forfeits and Vacated Games College Football at Sports-Reference.com Schedule The Sagarin computer ratings calculated Alabama's strength of schedule to be the 31st most difficult out of the 245 Division I teams.https://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbt07.htm USA Today Jeff Sagarin NCAA football ratings January 7, 2008 August 27, 2011 The Cosgrove Computer Rankings calculated it as the 55th most difficult out of the 119 Division I FBS teams in its rankings.http://www.collegefootballpoll.com/2007_archive_computer_rankings.html 2007–2008 College Football Season Final Congrove Computer Rankings College Football Poll.com August 27, 2011 Alabama's 2007 schedule was officially released on July 24, 2006.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/072406aaf.html Alabama announces 2007 football schedule RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics July 24, 2006 August 27, 2011 It featured six pre-season AP Top 25 teams, eight of which made bowl games in 2006.https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2007/week/1 2007 NCAA Football Rankings – Preseason ESPN.com August 27, 2011 In accordance with conference rules, Alabama faced all five Western Division opponents: Arkansas, Auburn, LSU, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss. They also faced three Eastern Division opponents: official SEC rival Tennessee, Georgia, and Vanderbilt.http://www.secdigitalnetwork.com/NEWS/tabid/473/Article/126578/sec-football-scheduling-format.aspx SEC Football scheduling format SECsports.com The Southeastern Conference August 27, 2011 Alabama did not play SEC opponents Florida, Kentucky and South Carolina. Alabama also played four non-conference games. The non-conference schedule included games against Western Carolina of the Southern Conference, Florida State of the Atlantic Coast Conference, Houston of Conference USA and Louisiana–Monroe of the Sun Belt Conference.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html#2007 All-time Football Results: 2007 Season RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120713171913/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html July 13, 2012 For the 2007 Independence Bowl, Alabama played Colorado of the Big 12 Conference.https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=ZIM0AAAAIBAJ&sjid=pacEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5527%2C2355479 UA faces Colorado in Independence Bowl Dec. 30 Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News December 3, 2007 August 27, 2011 2007 AP Central September 1 6:00 p.m. v y Western Carolina Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 52–6 92,138 https://www.newspapers.com/article/press-register-catamounts-roll-over-for/176679863/ Press-Register Catamounts roll over for Tide September 2, 2007 July 14, 2025 Newspapers.com September 8 11:30 a.m. v y Vanderbilt Vanderbilt Stadium Nashville, TN LFS 24–10 39,773 September 15 5:45 p.m. v Arkansas 16 Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL ESPN 41–38 92,138 September 22 6:45 p.m. l 16 Georgia 22 Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL rivalry, College GameDay ESPN 23–26 OT 92,138 September 29 4:00 p.m. l y y 22 Florida State Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Jacksonville, FL CBS 14–21 85,412 October 6 2:00 p.m. v y y Houston Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 30–24 92,138 October 13 11:30 a.m. v y Ole Miss Vaught–Hemingway Stadium Oxford, MS rivalry LFS 27–24 59,791 October 20 11:30 a.m. w Tennessee 20 Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL Third Saturday in October LFS 41–17 92,138 November 3 4:00 p.m. l 17 LSU 3 Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL rivalry CBS 34–41 92,138 November 10 11:30 a.m. l y 21 Mississippi State Davis Wade Stadium Starkville, MS rivalry LFS 12–17 56,188 November 17 1:30 p.m. l y Louisiana–Monroe Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 14–21 92,138 November 24 7:00 p.m. l y Auburn 25 Jordan-Hare Stadium Auburn, AL Iron Bowl ESPN 10–17 87,451 December 30 7:00 p.m. w y y Colorado Independence Stadium Shreveport, LA Independence Bowl ESPN 30–24 47,043 Alabama Crimson Tide Schedule 2007 https://www.espn.com/college-football/team/schedule/_/id/333/season/2007 ESPN August 16, 2025 2007 Alabama Crimson Tide Schedule and Results https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/alabama/2007-schedule.html College Football at Sports-Reference.com Sports Reference August 16, 2025 2007 Football Schedule https://rolltide.com/sports/football/schedule/2007 University of Alabama August 16, 2025 Rankings 2007 NCAA Division I FBS football rankings AP 0 15 RV RV RV 16 22 RV RV RV 22 17 21 RV NR NR NR NR Coaches 0 15 RV RV RV 20 24 RV RV RV 24 18 23 NR NR NR NR NR Harris 4 14 22 RV RV RV 24 17 22 RV NR NR NR BCS 7 14 NR 24 17 22 NR NR NR NR Before the season The Crimson Tide completed a 6–6 regular season record.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html#2006 All-time Football Results: 2006 Season RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120713171913/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html July 13, 2012 Following their loss to Auburn in the Iron Bowl, head coach Mike Shula was fired on November 27, after four years.https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=2677110 Alabama fires Shula, names Kines interim coach November 28, 2006 ESPN.com news services ESPN.com September 4, 2011 Athletic director Mal Moore announced defensive coordinator Joe Kines as interim head coach for the Independence Bowl, against Oklahoma State, which the Tide lost 34–31, finishing with a 6–7 record. Returning starters Eighteen starters returned from the previous season, including nine on offense, five on defense, and four on special teams.2007 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide, p. 6 The most notable departures were Kenneth Darby and Le'Ron McClain on offense, and Dominic Lee, Jeremy Clark, Juwan Simpson, Terrence Jones, Jeffrey Dukes, and Ramzee Robinson on defense. The Crimson Tide offense returned all three quarterbacks, including starter John Parker Wilson. The entire starting offensive line returned, anchored by freshman All-American Andre Smith, along with reinforcements by the top four tight ends from the 2006 depth chart. Alabama's receiving unit was led by D. J. Hall, who broke nearly every Alabama-receiving record in school history in 2006. The Alabama defense returned five starters in 2007, based on the 3–3–5 scheme that was run in 2006. The Tide had a new starting nose tackle, outside linebacker, strongside linebacker, cornerback, and a starting safety. Offense Player Class Position John Parker Wilson Junior Quarterback Keith Brown Senior Wide receiver D. J. Hall Senior Wide receiver Travis McCall Senior Tight end Andre Smith Sophomore Offensive tackle Chris Capps Senior Offensive tackle Justin Britt Senior Offensive guard B. J. Stabler Junior Offensive guard Antoine Caldwell Junior Center Defense Player Class Position Keith Saunders Senior Defensive end Wallace Gilberry Senior Defensive end Jay Callahan Jr Sophomore Linebacker Simeon Castille Senior Cornerback Marcus Carter Senior Safety Special teams Player Class Position P. J. Fitzgerald Sophomore Punter Jamie Christensen Senior Placekicker Leigh Tiffin Sophomore Placekicker Javier Arenas Sophomore Return specialistBrian SelmanSophomoreLong snapper Game summaries Western Carolina 2007 Western Carolina Catamounts football team Western Carolina 0 3 0 3 Alabama 14 10 14 14 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 6:07 p.m. Central 3:17 92,138 89°, partly cloudy, winds ENE at 5 mph Matt Austin Chris Stewart (play-by-play), Tyler Watts (color), Barry Krauss (sideline) CTSN PPV Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/082707aaa.html Alabama football team continues to prepare for season-opener August 23, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama01.html#GAME.SUM Western Carolina vs Alabama: Scoring Summary September 1, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 The Nick Saban era commenced before a sold-out, home crowd of 92,138 by defeating the Western Carolina Catamounts 52–6 for both Nick Saban's first regular season game and victory as Alabama's head coach.Bama faithful bask in Saban's winning debut as coach http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272440333 https://web.archive.org/web/20121020035925/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272440333 dead October 20, 2012 Associated Press ESPN.com September 1, 2007 August 27, 2011 Redshirt freshman running back Terry Grant scored the first touchdown of the season, on the first offensive play of the game, with a 47-yard touchdown run.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama01.html#GAME.PLY Western Carolina vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary September 1, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 28, 2011Grant's starting debut an explosive, impressive one http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20070902/NEWS/70901017 Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News September 2, 2007 August 28, 2011 Grant then scored his second touchdown on a one-yard run to give Alabama a 14–0 lead at the end of the first quarter. After a successful, 34-yard Jonathon Parsons field goal by the Catamounts, Grant scored his third touchdown of the evening on a 21-yard run. Leigh Tiffin then hit a 21-yard field goal to give Alabama a 24–3 halftime lead. Bama continued the scoring in the third quarter with another pair of touchdowns. The first came on a one-yard Glen Coffee run and the second on a one-yard touchdown pass from Greg McElroy to Nick Walker. After a second Parsons field goal for Western Carolina, Alabama scored touchdowns on a one-yard Jimmy Johns run and a 25-yard Roy Upchurch run to make the final score 52–6. For his 134-yard, three touchdown performance, Terry Grant was named the SEC Freshman of the Week.September 3, 2007 Tide's Grant named SEC Freshman of the Week https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/news/2007/09/03/update-tides-grant-named-sec-freshman-of-the-week/27724448007/ August 28, 2011 The Tuscaloosa News Vanderbilt 2007 Vanderbilt Commodores football team Alabama 10 6 0 8 Vanderbilt 3 0 0 7 Nashville, Tennessee 11:34 a.m. Central 3:11 39,773 82°, cloudy, winds S at 6 mph Rocky Goode LFS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama02.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Vanderbilt: Scoring Summary September 8, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 alt=American football players line up in a goal line formation on an American football field surrounded by crowded stands.|thumb|left|Alabama attempts a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter For the 19th consecutive time, stretching back to the 1984 season, Alabama defeated the Vanderbilt Commodores to open conference play. In this contest, the Crimson Tide were victorious before a sold-out crowd of 39,773 at Vanderbilt Stadium 24–10 for Nick Saban's first conference victory as Alabama's head coach.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/090807aab.html Alabama vs Vanderbilt: Postgame notes September 8, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011Grant's 173 rushing yards continues Tide's dominance over Vandy http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272510238 https://web.archive.org/web/20121020035943/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272510238 dead October 20, 2012 Associated Press ESPN.com September 8, 2007 August 27, 2011 After Javier Arenas returned the first punt of the game 69-yards to the one-yard line, for the second week in a row Terry Grant scored a touchdown on Alabama's first offensive play with his one-yard run.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama02.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Vanderbilt: Play-by-play Summary September 8, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 28, 2011Grant gone wild http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20070908/NEWS/70908054 Michael Southern The Tuscaloosa News September 9, 2007 August 28, 2011 Leigh Tiffin hit a 20-yard field goal later in the quarter as did the Commodores' Bryant Hahnfeldt from 33 yards to make the score 10–3 at the end of the first. A pair of Tiffin field goals from 40 and 29 yards extended Bama's lead to 16–3 at the half. After being held scoreless in the third quarter, Grant scored his second touchdown of the afternoon on a two-yard run early in the fourth quarter. With a successful two-point conversion pass from John Parker Wilson to Nick Walker, Alabama extended their lead to 24–3. Vanderbilt did score a late touchdown on a 15-yard Adams Mackenzi pass to George Smith to make the finals score 24–10. For his 173-yard, two touchdown performance, and for the second consecutive week, Terry Grant was named the SEC Freshman of the Week.Grant earns SEC honors for second straight week http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20070911/NEWS/70911016 Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News September 11, 2007 August 28, 2011 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Commodores to 58–19–4 (61–18–4 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Arkansas 2007 Arkansas Razorbacks football team #16 Arkansas 0 10 7 21 Alabama 21 0 10 10 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 5:58 p.m. Central 3:42 92,138 74°, clear, winds N at 8 mph Penn Wagers Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (analyst), Holly Rowe (sideline) ESPN Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama03.html#GAME.SUM Arkansas vs Alabama: Scoring Summary September 15, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 In what was considered their first true test of the season, Alabama built an early 21-point lead but had to mount a come-from-behind drive in the final two minutes of the game in order to capture a 41–38 victory against the Arkansas Razorbacks.Caddell TD caps wild finish as Bama upsets Arkansas http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272580333 https://web.archive.org/web/20110519085728/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272580333 dead May 19, 2011 Associated Press ESPN.com September 15, 2007 August 28, 2011 Bama took a 21–0 lead into the second quarter after a pair of D. J. Hall touchdown receptions of nine and 35 yards from John Parker Wilson and a 14-yard Glen Coffee run.Hall sets records in Tide's victory http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20070916/NEWS/70915055 Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News September 16, 2007 August 28, 2011 The Razorbacks closed the gap to 21–10 at the half after Casey Dick threw a 40-yard touchdown pass to Crosby Tuck and Alex Tejada converted a 22-yard field goal. Alabama extended their lead to 31–10 in the third quarter after a 24-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal and a two-yard Wilson touchdown pass to Nick Walker. From this point, Arkansas scored four touchdowns to take a 38–31 lead late into the fourth quarter. Dick hit Andrew Davie for a two-yard touchdown reception late in the third. In the fourth Darren McFadden scored on runs of one and five yards on consecutive drives, and Peyton Hillis had a seven-yard touchdown reception to give the Razorbacks a 38–31 lead with 8:08 remaining in the game. Tiffin converted a 42-yard field goal and with 4:20 remaining in the game and then with only 0:08 remaining Wilson hit Matt Caddell for a four-yard, game-winning touchdown reception. With his 172 yards receiving, D. J. Hall set a new Crimson Tide record for career receiving yardage previously held by Ozzie Newsome with 2,070 yards. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Razorbacks to 8–8 (11–7 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Georgia 2007 Georgia Bulldogs football team #22 Georgia 7 3 7 3 6 #16 Alabama 0 3 7 10 3 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 6:47 p.m. Central 3:34 92,138 88°, partly cloudy, winds ESE at 9 mph Jeff Roberson Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (analyst), Holly Rowe (sideline) ESPN Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama04.html#GAME.SUM Georgia vs Alabama: Scoring Summary September 22, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 A week after upsetting Arkansas and entering both the AP and Coaches' Polls, Alabama was defeated in overtime by the Georgia Bulldogs 26–23.Stafford's 25-yard TD strike dumps No. 16 Alabama in OT http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272650333 https://web.archive.org/web/20121020035952/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272650333 dead October 20, 2012 Associated Press ESPN.com September 22, 2007 August 28, 2011 The Crimson Tide found themselves trailing 7–0 early in the first quarter after a 10-yard touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to Thomas Brown.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama04.html#GAME.PLY Georgia vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary September 22, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 28, 2011 Brandon Coutu and Leigh Tiffin each added a field goal in the second quarter for their respective teams to give the Bulldogs a lead 10–3 at halftime. In the third quarter, Alabama's John Parker Wilson scrambled for a one-yard touchdown run, but the Bulldogs immediately answered on their next drive with a six-yard rushing touchdown from Knowshon Moreno. Coutu connected on a 47-yard field goal, as the Bulldogs extended their lead in the fourth quarter to 20–10. Alabama responded with 22-yard Tiffin field goal and a second rushing touchdown from Wilson, to force overtime. On their first possession of overtime, Alabama failed to move the football and Leigh Tiffin connected on a 42-yard field goal. As for Georgia, Stafford connected on a 25-yard pass to Mikey Henderson, on their first offensive play in overtime, and the Bulldogs left Tuscaloosa 26–23 overtime winners. The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Bulldogs to 35–25–4. This would be the last time Alabama lost to Georgia until the 2022 national championship game. Florida State 2007 Florida State Seminoles football team River City Showdown #22 Alabama 0 0 0 14 Florida State 0 0 7 14 Jacksonville, Florida 5:01 p.m. Eastern 3:44 85,412 83°, partly cloudy, winds NNE 19–27 mph Thomas Ritter Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama05.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Florida State: Scoring Summary September 29, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 In what was Alabama's first regular season game played at a neutral site since the Kickoff Classic in 1986, Alabama was defeated in the inaugural River City Showdown at Jacksonville, Florida by the Florida State Seminoles 21–14.Lee comes off bench, rescues Florida State from Alabama http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272720052 https://web.archive.org/web/20110519090018/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272720052 dead May 19, 2011 Associated Press ESPN.com September 29, 2007 August 28, 2011 After a scoreless first half, the Seminoles got on the board first in the third quarter. Florida State scored on their first play of the second half when Xavier Lee connected with De'Cody Fagg for a seven-yard touchdown reception.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama05.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Florida State: Play-by-play Summary September 29, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 28, 2011 The Seminoles extended their lead to 14–0 early in the fourth quarter on a five-yard Antone Smith touchdown run. Alabama scored their first points of the evening late in the fourth quarter when John Parker Wilson threw a seven-yard touchdown pass to D. J. Hall to cut the Florida State lead to 14–7. On the Seminoles' next offensive possession when Lee threw a 70-yard touchdown pass to Fagg and extended their lead to 21–7. The Crimson Tide then cut the lead after Wilson hit Keith Brown for a 17-yard touchdown reception. However, Alabama was unable to recover the onside kick on the ensuing kickoff and lost by the final score of 21–14. The 85,412 fans at the game set the attendance record for Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, exceeding numbers of Super Bowl XXXIX or any of the annual Florida–Georgia rivalry games. It was the first time the teams had met since 1974, and it was the first meeting since Birmingham, Alabama native Bobby Bowden took over as head coach of the Seminoles. The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Seminoles to 2–1–1. Houston Houston Cougars football Houston 0 7 3 14 Alabama 23 0 7 0 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 2:07 p.m. Central 3:30 92,138 87°, sunny, winds ENE 7 mph Marc Curles Chris Stewart (play-by-play), Tyler Watts (color), Barry Krauss (sideline) CTSN PPV Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/100107aaa.html Tide begins preparation for homecoming contest against Houston October 1, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama06.html#GAME.SUM Houston vs Alabama: Scoring Summary October 6, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 Coming on the heels of two consecutive losses, the Crimson Tide defeated the Houston Cougars on homecoming in Tuscaloosa 30–24.Alabama 30, Houston 24 http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272790333 https://web.archive.org/web/20121020052704/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272790333 dead October 20, 2012 Associated Press ESPN.com October 6, 2007 September 3, 2011 After the first quarter, Alabama led Houston 23–0 after scoring a trio of touchdowns and a safety. John Parker Wilson scored the first touchdown of the afternoon on a one-yard run to cap the opening, 13 play, 80-yard drive.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama06.html#GAME.PLY Houston vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary October 6, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 On the ensuing Cougar drive, Wallace Gilberry sacked Houston quarterback Blake Joseph for a safety and a 9–0 Alabama lead. The Crimson Tide then closed the first quarter with a pair of Wilson touchdown passes to take a 23–0 lead into the second quarter. The first came on a 23-yard pass to Nikita Stover and the second on a 23-yard pass to Mike McCoy. Holding Alabama scoreless in the second quarter, before halftime Houston managed to score their first touchdown on a 68-yard Joseph pass to Donnie Avery to make the halftime score 23–7. A 34-yard Houston field goal in the third quarter made the score 23–10 before Alabama scored its final touchdown on a four-yard Glen Coffee run to make it 30–10. The game appeared over going into the fourth quarter, but Houston attempted a comeback by scoring two touchdowns to come within six points of the Tide. Houston scored a pair of touchdowns in the fourth on a two-yard Case Keenum run and a 30-yard Keenum pass to Anthony Alridge to cut the score to 30–24. On the last play of the game, Houston almost scored another touchdown to win the game, but an interception in the endzone by Simeon Castille sealed the victory for Bama. For his eleven tackle, two sack performance, Wallace Gilberry was named SEC Defensive Line Player of the Week.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/100807aae.html Gilberry earns SEC Defensive Lineman of Week honors October 8, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Cougars to 9–0 (10–0 without NCAA vacations). Ole Miss 2007 Ole Miss Rebels football team Alabama–Ole Miss football rivalry Alabama 3 14 0 10 Ole Miss 7 3 14 0 Oxford, Mississippi 11:34 a.m. Central 3:34 59,791 70°, sunny, winds SE 4 mph Penn Wagers Dave Neal (play-by-play), Dave Archer (analyst), Dave Baker (sideline reporter) LFS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/100807aad.html Alabama begins preparations for Ole Miss October 8, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama07.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Ole Miss: Scoring Summary October 13, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 alt=American football players line up for a kickoff on an American football field surrounded by crowded stands.|thumb|left|Kickoff against the Rebels In an unexpected offensive showcase, the Alabama managed to defeat the Ole Miss Rebels 27–24 in Oxford.Crimson Tide clip Ole Miss with 10-point rally, late replay reversal http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272860145 https://web.archive.org/web/20071014053634/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272860145 dead October 14, 2007 Associated Press ESPN.com October 13, 2007 September 3, 2011 Leigh Tiffin opened the scoring with a 27-yard field goal to give the Crimson Tide a 3–0 lead.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama07.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Ole Miss: Play-by-play Summary October 13, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 The Rebels responded with an eight-yard Dexter McCluster touchdown reception from Seth Adams to take a 7–3 lead at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter Alabama scored a pair of touchdowns with the first coming on a two-yard Glen Coffee run and the second on a one-yard John Parker Wilson run. Ole Miss added a 22-yard Joshua Shene field goal and Alabama was up 17–10 at the half. Ole Miss took a 24–17 lead into the fourth quarter following a pair of touchdowns in the third. Adams scored on a three-yard run then connected with Mike Hicks for a 17-yard touchdown reception in the period. The Crimson Tide then mounted a fourth quarter comeback. Terry Grant scored on a three-yard run and Tiffin kicked the game-winning field goal from 24 yards with 5:14 remaining in the game. Ole Miss attempted to score on their last drive to either force the game into overtime with a field goal or win with a touchdown. With a fourth-and-22 on Alabama's 45-yard line, Adams completed a pass to Shay Hodge at the 3-yard line. However, the call was reviewed and then reversed after Nick Saban called a timeout to give the officials more time to look at the replay. John Parker Wilson was 26 for 40 and threw an interception and no touchdowns. The defense was able to force three interceptions on the day. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Rebels to 41–9–2 (45–8–2 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Tennessee 2007 Tennessee Volunteers football team Third Saturday in October #20 Tennessee 7 10 0 0 Alabama 10 14 6 11 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 11:34 a.m. Central 3:26 92,138 69°, sunny, winds N 2 mph Matt Austin Dave Neal (play-by-play), Dave Archer (analyst), Dave Baker (sideline reporter) LFS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101507aaa.html Alabama begins preparations for SEC-rival Tennessee October 15, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama08.html#GAME.SUM Tennessee vs Alabama: Scoring Summary October 20, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 alt=Large scoreboard in an American football stadium surrounded by crowded stands.|thumb|left|Final scoreboard In their annual rivalry game, Alabama met the Tennessee Volunteers and was victorious 41–17 in Nick Saban's first "The Third Saturday in October" as head coach of Alabama.Alabama notches biggest win in series with Vols since 1986 http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272930333 https://web.archive.org/web/20071022192630/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272930333 dead October 22, 2007 Associated Press ESPN.com October 20, 2007 September 3, 2011 Saban elected to kick an onside kick on the opening kickoff that Alabama recovered.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama08.html#GAME.PLY Tennessee vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary October 20, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 On the ensuing drive, Leigh Tiffin connected on a 39-yard field goal to give the Crimson Tide an early 3–0 lead. Bama extended their lead to 10–0 when John Parker Wilson connected with Terry Grant on a three-yard touchdown pass. The Volunteers scored their first points of the afternoon on the following drive on a two-yard Arian Foster run to make the score 10–7 entering the second quarter. Tennessee took a 14–10 lead early in the second quarter after Erik Ainge threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Luke Stocker. At that point Alabama took over. D. J. Hall had two second-quarter touchdown receptions on John Parker Wilson passes of 16 and two yards . Daniel Lincoln then connected on a 45-yard field goal as time expired and Alabama led 24–17 at the half. Tiffin added three more field goals to bring his total to four on the day in the second half, and Terry Grant had an eight-yard touchdown run in the fourth to give Alabama the 41–17 victory. D. J. Hall and John Parker Wilson had career days for Alabama. Hall had 13 receptions for 185 yards and two touchdowns. Wilson was 32-of-46 for 363 yards and three touchdowns. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against Tennessee to 44–38–7 (45–37–8 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). LSU 2007 LSU Tigers football team Alabama–LSU football rivalry #3 LSU 10 7 7 17 #17 Alabama 3 17 7 7 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 4:07 p.m. Central 4:13 92,138 69°, sunny, winds NNW 10 mph Thomas Ritter Verne Lundquist, Gary Danielson & Tracy Wolfson CBS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/102907aab.html No. 17 Alabama begins preparations for No. 3 LSU October 29, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama09.html#GAME.SUM LSU vs Alabama: Scoring Summary November 3, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 In the game dubbed "Saban Bowl I", in which Nick Saban's new Alabama team faced a LSU Tigers team that featured several players Saban himself had recruited during his tenure in Baton Rouge, the Tide found itself in an SEC shootout, but lost 41–34.Late turnover dooms No. 17 Alabama as No. 3 LSU holds on http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273070333 https://web.archive.org/web/20071105140108/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273070333 dead November 5, 2007 Associated Press ESPN.com November 3, 2007 September 3, 2011Tigers fans approach Saturday's showdown with mixed emotions https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3088098 Ron Higgins ESPN.com November 3, 2007 September 3, 2011 Alabama struck first with a 36-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal. However, the Tigers then scored 17 unanswered points. After Colt David connected on a 43-yard field goal to tie the game at 3–3, Matt Flynn connected with Early Doucet for a ten-yard touchdown reception and Jacob Hester scored from one-yard out to give LSU a 17–3 lead early in the second quarter. Alabama responded with 17 points in the second quarter, and the Crimson Tide led 20–17 at halftime. The first score came on a 67-yard John Parker Wilson touchdown pass to D. J. Hall, the second on a 21-yard Tiffin field goal and the third on a 29-yard Wilson touchdown pass to Keith Brown. The third quarter saw no scoring until the last two minutes. With 1:19 left, Keith Brown caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from Wilson to make the score 27–17.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama09.html#GAME.PLY LSU vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary November 3, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 The Tigers quickly responded on their next drive when Flynn threw a 61-yard touchdown pass to Demetrius Byrd to bring the Tigers back to within three points of Bama. Then, with 11:21 left in the game, Colt David kicked a 49-yard field goal to tie it up 27–27. The Crimson Tide took a 34–27 lead when Javier Arenas returned a punt for a 61-yard touchdown. With 2:49 left, LSU was able to tie the game again when Flynn threw a 32-yard touchdown pass to Doucet. It appeared the game might go into overtime until Wilson fumbled the ball and LSU recovered on the Alabama four-yard line. Two plays later, Hester ran it in for the game-winning touchdown to make the score 41–34. The Tigers had 475 total yards compared to Alabama's 254. Alabama was able to stay in the game thanks to three interceptions the defense was able to force and 130 yards in penalties that LSU accumulated. John Parker Wilson was 14 for 40 with 234 yards, 3 touchdowns, sacked 7 times, and an interception.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama09.html#GAME.IND LSU vs Alabama: Individual Statistics November 3, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 43–23–5. Mississippi State 2007 Mississippi State Bulldogs football team Alabama–Mississippi State football rivalry #22 Alabama 6 3 0 3 Mississippi State 0 10 7 0 Starkville, Mississippi 11:34 a.m. Central 3:11 56,188 64°, sunny, winds ENE 6 mph Hubert Owens Bill Rosinski (play-by-play), David Archer (analyst) Jenn Hildreth (sideline reporter) LFS Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/110507aaa.html No. 21 Alabama begins preparations for Mississippi State November 5, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama10.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Mississippi State: Scoring Summary November 10, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 Coming a week after a tough loss to LSU, the Mississippi State Bulldogs defeated Alabama for the second consecutive season, this time by a score of 17–12.Miss. State earns second straight win over Bama http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273140344 https://web.archive.org/web/20071115125258/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273140344 dead November 15, 2007 Associated Press ESPN.com November 10, 2007 September 3, 2011 Alabama took a 9–0 lead halfway through the second quarter on Leigh Tiffin field goals of 39, 51 and 29 yards. With just over 4:00 remaining in the half, Adam Carlson connected on a 35-yard field goal to cut the score to 9–3. The Bulldogs then took the lead as time expired in the first half after Anthony Johnson intercepted a John Parker Wilson pass and returned it 100-yards for a 10–9 lead.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama10.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Mississippi State: Play-by-play Summary November 10, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 In the third quarter, Mississippi State extended their lead to 17–9 after scoring the only offensive touchdown of the game. The score came on a three-yard run by Anthony Dixon. Alabama scored their final points in the fourth on a 50-yard Tiffin field goal, his fourth of the afternoon. The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Bulldogs to 71–18–3 (70–19–3 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Louisiana–Monroe 2007 Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks football team Louisiana–Monroe 0 14 7 0 Alabama 7 7 0 0 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 1:35 p.m. Central 2:59 92,138 68°, partly cloudy, winds SSW 9 mph Jeff Roberson Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama11.html#GAME.SUM Louisiana–Monroe vs Alabama: Scoring Summary November 17, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 Coming off their second consecutive loss, Alabama suffered their worst loss of the season when the Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks defeated the Crimson Tide 21–14 in Bryant–Denny Stadium.Louisiana-Monroe stops Alabama for upset victory http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273210333 https://archive.today/20130103061800/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273210333 dead January 3, 2013 Associated Press ESPN.com November 17, 2007 September 3, 2011 Alabama took an early 7–0 lead after a 17-yard Keith Brown touchdown reception from John Parker Wilson. The Warhawks tied the game at 7–7 on the first play of the second quarter when Calvin Dawson ran it in from one-yard out.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama11.html#GAME.PLY Louisiana–Monroe vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary November 17, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 3, 2011 Both teams then traded touchdowns to tie the game at 14–14 at the half. Alabama scored on a 12-yard Terry Grant run and Louisiana–Monroe scored on a 13-yard Frank Goodin run. The Warhawks scored what turned out to be the game-winning touchdown in the third quarter when Kinsmon Lancaster tossed an eleven-yard score to Marty Humphrey to win the game for Louisiana–Monroe 21–14. Auburn 2007 Auburn Tigers football team Iron Bowl Alabama 0 7 0 3 #25 Auburn 10 0 0 7 Auburn, Alabama 7:10 p.m. Central 3:10 87,451 50°, cloudy, winds NE 8 mph Thomas Ritter Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (analyst), Holly Rowe (sideline reporter) ESPN Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111907aab.html Alabama begins preparations for Auburn November 19, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama12.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Auburn: Scoring Summary November 24, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 Coming off their third consecutive loss, Alabama lost in the Iron Bowl for the sixth consecutive time against the arch-rival Auburn Tigers 17–10 on "The Plains".No. 25 Auburn 17, Alabama 10 http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273280002 https://web.archive.org/web/20071128021622/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273280002 dead November 28, 2007 Associated Press ESPN.com November 24, 2007 September 4, 2011 Auburn took a 10–0 lead in the first quarter with Ben Tate scoring on a three-yard touchdown run and Wes Byrum connecting on a 37-yard field goal. Alabama then cut the lead to 10–7 at the half after a two-yard John Parker Wilson touchdown run early in the second quarter. After a scoreless third quarter, Brandon Cox extended the Tigers' lead to 17–7 on his one-yard touchdown run with only 3:58 remaining in the game.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama12.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Auburn: Play-by-play Summary November 24, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 Alabama was able to cut the lead to 17–10 after a 49-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal with 2:11 remaining in the game. However, the Crimson Tide were unable to recover the onside kick on the ensuing kickoff and Auburn was able to run out the clock to preserve the 17–10 victory. The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 38–33–1. Colorado 2007 Colorado Buffaloes football team 2007 Independence Bowl Independence Bowl Alabama 20 7 0 3 Colorado 0 14 3 7 Shreveport, Louisiana 7:06 p.m. Central 3:20 47,043 49°, clear, winds SW 1 mph Bill Athan Mark Jones (play-by-play), Bob Davie (analyst), Stacey Dales (sideline reporter) ESPN Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/121807aab.html PetroSun Independence Bowl: Alabama vs. Colorado game notes December 18, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama13.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Colorado: Scoring Summary December 30, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 After a four-game slide to end a once promising season, Alabama defeated the Colorado Buffaloes in the 2007 Independence Bowl 30–24 to finish the season with an overall record of 7–6.Wilson's 3 TDs carry Alabama to bowl win over Colorado http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273640038 https://web.archive.org/web/20080206210502/http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273640038 dead February 6, 2008 Associated Press ESPN.com December 30, 2007 September 4, 2011 Alabama scored on their opening drive on a 41-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal to lead 3–0. Colorado's first offensive play of the game resulted in an interception by Rolando McClain.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2007-2008/bama13.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Colorado: Play-by-play Summary December 30, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 Once again, Alabama relied on another field goal from Tiffin to push their lead to 6–0. Later in the quarter, John Parker Wilson threw touchdown strikes of 15-yards to Keith Brown and 34-yards to Matt Caddell to extend the Crimson Tide lead to 20–0 after one quarter. Early in the second quarter, Wilson connected with Nikita Stover on a 31-yard touchdown pass and the Crimson Tide lead 27–0. The Buffaloes controlled the majority of the second quarter after Wilson threw an interception to Ryan Walters with just under six minutes remaining in the half. Colorado cut the Alabama lead to 27–14 at the half on a pair of Cody Hawkins touchdown passes. The first was a four-yard pass to Tyson DeVree and the second a 25-yard pass to Dusty Sprague. The only score in the third quarter would come from Kevin Eberhart on a 39-yard Colorado field goal. Tiffin kicked a field goal as the Crimson Tide lead 30–17 with just over four minutes remaining in the game. Colorado responded on the following drive with a 14-yard Hawkins touchdown pass to DeVree to cut the Alabama lead to 30–24 with 3:51 remaining in the game. Alabama was able to run the clock down, and after receiving the 49-yard P. J. Fitzgerald punt, only 0:01 remained in the game. On the final play of the game, Colorado attempted several lateral passes but would fall short of midfield. The 30–24 victory sent Alabama to a 7–6 overall record as they avoided a second consecutive losing season. Personnel Coaching staff On January 3, 2007, Alabama announced that Nick Saban was hired from the Miami Dolphins to serve as the program's 27th head coach.Saban leaving the Dolphins for Alabama https://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/04/sports/ncaafootball/04saban.html Charlie Nobles The New York Times January 4, 2007 August 28, 2011 In the weeks that followed, Saban worked to fill his staff. The first hires came on January 9 with Kirby Smart hired from the Dolphins to serve as defensive coordinator; Kevin Steele from Florida State to serve as head defensive coach; and Lance Thompson from UCF to serve as linebackers coach.Saban confirms hirings https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=AxsfAAAAIBAJ&sjid=2qcEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4771%2C3325861 Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News January 10, 2007 August 28, 2011 On January 11, Joe Pendry of the Houston Texans was hired to serve as an assistant head and linebackers coach.Two more assistants on board C1 Cecil Hurt The Tuscaloosa News January 12, 2007 On January 12 Saban hired two more assistants. Ron Middleton was hired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to serve as both the tight ends and special teams coach and Bo Davis from the Dolphins was hired as defensive line coach.Tide adds three new assistants https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=BRsfAAAAIBAJ&sjid=2qcEAAAAIBAJ&pg=3131%2C4100145 Cecil Hurt The Tuscaloosa News January 12, 2007 August 28, 2011 On January 13 Major Applewhite was hired from Rice to serve as both offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.Alabama adds Major Applewhite to coaching staff C1 The Tuscaloosa News January 14, 2007 On January 16 Burton Burns was hired from Clemson to serve as both associate head and running backs coach.Burns leaving Clemson for Tide https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=eyMfAAAAIBAJ&sjid=racEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4498%2C67115 Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News January 16, 2007 August 28, 2011 On February 19 Curt Cignetti was hired from NC State to serve as both receivers coach and recruiting coordinator to fill the final position on Saban's inaugural coaching staff.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/021907aaa.html Curt Cignetti joins Alabama football staff February 19, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 28, 2011 Name Position Year at Alabama Alma mater (year)Nick Saban Head coach 1st Kent State (1973)Burton BurnsAssociate head coach Running Backs1stNebraska (1976)Joe Pendry Assistant head coach- Offense /Offensive Line1stWest Virginia (1969)Kirby SmartAssistant Head Coach- Defense /Secondary1stGeorgia (1999)Major ApplewhiteOffensive coordinator/quarterbacks1stTexas (2002) Kevin SteeleDefensive coordinator/inside linebackers1stTennessee (1981)Curt CignettiWide receivers coach/Recruiting Coordinator1stWest Virginia (1983)Ron MiddletonTight Ends/special teams1st Auburn (1985)Bo Davis Defensive line 1st LSU (1993)Lance ThompsonOutside Linebackers1stThe Citadel (1987) Scott Cochran Strength and Conditioning 1st LSU (2001) Gabe Giardina Graduate assistant 4th Alabama (2004) 2007 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide, p. 1 Roster Quarterbacks 14 John Parker Wilson – Junior 16 Thomas Darrah – Freshman 17 Greg McElroy – 10px|Redshirt Freshman 18 Nick Fanuzzi – Freshman 19 Ross Applegate – Freshman Patrick Bryant – Freshman Robert Ezell – Freshman Running backs 5 Roy Upchurch – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 10 Jimmy Johns – Junior 26 Ali Sharrief – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 29 Terry Grant – 10px|Redshirt Freshman 33 Demetrius Goode – Freshman 34 Jeramie Griffin – Freshman 38 Glen Coffee – Sophomore 40 Baron Huber – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore Justen santana – Sophomore Fullbacks 33 Patrick Hanrahan – Freshman Drew bullard – Freshman Brandon powell – Junior Jacob vane – 10px|Redshirt Freshman Wide receivers 4 Marquis Maze – Freshman 7 Will Oakley – 10px|Redshirt Junior 9 Nikita Stover – Junior 11 Matt Caddell – 10px|Redshirt Senior 15 Darius Hanks – Freshman 22 D. J. Hall – Senior 39 Darwin Salaam – Junior 43 A. J. Walker – Freshman 46 Kyle Pennington – Freshman 48 Travis Sikes – Freshman 80 Mike McCoy – Sophomore 81 Keith Brown – Senior 82 Earl Alexander – Freshman 84 Brandon Gibson – Freshman Adam presley – Freshman Chris pugh – Sophomore Tight ends 83 Travis McCall – Junior 85 Preston Dial – Freshman 87 Chris Underwood – Freshman 88 Nick Walker – 10px|Redshirt Junior 89 Charles Hoke – Junior 96 Daniel Wood – Sophomore Drew cummings – Freshman Offensive line 50 Justin Britt – Senior 59 Antoine Caldwell – 10px|Redshirt Junior 60 Scott Deaton – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 61 B. J. Stabler – 10px|Redshirt Junior 62 Alex Stadler – Freshman 63 Morgan Garner – Senior 64 Layne Rinks – Junior 65 Joshua Curry – Senior 66 Brian Motley – Freshman 68 Taylor Pharr – Freshman 69 Patrick Crump – Freshman 70 Evan Cardwell – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 71 Andre Smith – Sophomore 72 Chris Capps – 10px|Redshirt Senior 73 William Vlachos – Freshman 74 David Ross – Freshman 75 Cody Davis – 10px|Redshirt Junior 76 Marlon Davis – Junior 78 Mike Johnson – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 79 Drew Davis – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore Defensive line 52 Alfred McCullough – Freshman 54 Jeremy Elder – Freshman 55 Chavis Williams – Freshman 56 Matt Collins – 10px|Redshirt Senior 58 Nick Gentry – Freshman 77 Byron Walton – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 90 Milton Talbert – Freshman 91 Alex Watkins – Freshman 92 Wallace Gilberry – 10px|Redshirt Senior 93 Bobby Greenwood – Junior 94 Keith Saunders – 10px|Redshirt Senior 95 Brandon Deaderick – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 96 Luther Davis – Freshman 97 Lorenzo Washington – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 98 Brandon Fanney – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 99 Josh Chapman – Freshman Juan garnier – Sophomore Linebackers 6 Marcel Stamps – Senior 21 Prince Hall – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 25 Rolando McClain – Freshman 32 Eryk Anders – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 35 Charlie Kirschman – Freshman 42 Jennings Hester – Freshman 44 Demarcus Waldrop – 10px|Redshirt Senior 45 Charlie Higgenbotham – Freshman 47 Ezekial Knight – Freshman 51 Michael DeJohn – Freshman 57 Darren Mustin – 10px|Redshirt Senior Alex benson – Sophomore Tucker callahan – Sophomore Joel nix – Sophomore Joe robinson – Sophomore Defensive backs 2 Simeon Castille – Senior 3 Kareem Jackson – Freshman 8 Chris Rogers – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore 13 Cory Reamer – Sophomore 16 Lionel Mitchell – Junior 19 Tarence Farmer – Freshman 20 Marcus Carter – Senior 23 Tremayne Coger – Freshman 24 Marquis Johnson – Sophomore 27 Justin Woodall – Sophomore 28 Javier Arenas – Sophomore 31 Forress Rayford – Senior 34 Courtney Moore – Sophomore 36 Eric Gray – 10px|Redshirt Senior 37 Trent Dean – Junior 39 Tyrone King – Sophomore 41 Chris Lett – Freshman 43 Sam Burnthall – Sophomore 49 Rashad Johnson – 10px|Redshirt Junior Rajiv lundy – Sophomore Lance vickers – Freshman Safeties Hampton gray – Sophomore Punters 77 Adam Hill – 10px|Redshirt Freshman 97 P. J. Fitzgerald – 10px|Redshirt Sophomore Heath thomas – Sophomore Sam snider – Sophomore Kickers 81 Andrew Friedman – Sophomore 86 Jamie Christensen – 10px|Redshirt Senior 95 Colin Gallagher – Freshman 99 Leigh Tiffin – Sophomore Long snappers 53 Paul Silvey – Freshman 67 Brian Selman – Junior Athletes Jonathan lowe – SeniorReference:2007 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide, pp. 4–5 Recruiting class Alabama's recruiting class was highlighted by three players from the "ESPN 150": No. 72 Kerry Murphy (DT); No. 80 William Vlachos (OG); and No. 118 Luther Davis (DE).http://espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/top150prospects/_/class/2007 https://web.archive.org/web/20100904100821/http://espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/top150prospects/_/class/2007 dead September 4, 2010 ESPNU 150 Class of 2008 ESPN.com August 27, 2011 Alabama signed the No. 10 recruiting class according to Rivals and the No. 22 according to Scout.https://sports.yahoo.com/Alabama/football/recruiting/teamrank/2007/all/all 2007 Team Rankings Rivals.com August 27, 2011https://sports.yahoo.com/Alabama/football/recruiting/teamrank/2007/all/all 2007 College Football Team Recruiting Rankings Scout.com August 27, 2011 yes 2007 Josh Chapman DT Hoover, AL Hoover High School 6 1 280 4.90 02/06/07 3 3 3 71 Patrick Crump OL Hoover, AL Hoover High School 6 3 285 5.0 09/13/06 3 3 3 74 Luther Davis DT West Monroe, Louisiana West Monroe High School 6 4 254 4.8 01/26/07 4 4 4 79 Jeremy Elder DE College Park, Georgia North Clayton High School 6 3 270 4.9 02/04/07 3 2 3 73 Nick Fanuzzi QB San Antonio, Texas Winston Churchill High School 6 3 200 4.6 01/22/07 3 3 3 78 Tarence Farmer DB Houston, Texas St. Pius X High School 6 1 190 4.4 01/22/07 3 3 3 77 Nick Gentry DT Prattville, AL Prattville High School 6 1 265 4.8 08/06/06 3 3 3 78 Brandon Gibson WR Mobile, AL UMS-Wright Preparatory School 6 2 190 4.5 02/07/07 4 4 4 79 Demetrius Goode RB Chatham, Virginia Hargrave Military Academy 5 11 200 4.5 01/28/07 3 4 3 79 Jeramie Griffin RB Batesville, Mississippi South Panola High School 6 0 230 4.5 01/28/07 4 3 3 77 Darius Hanks WR Norcross, Georgia Norcross High School 6 0 168 4.6 01/29/07 3 3 3 71 Jennings Hester LB Atlanta, Georgia Marist School 6 3 228 4.7 06/13/06 2 2 3 72 Kareem Jackson DB Fork Union, Virginia Fork Union Military Academy 5 10 185 4.5 01/22/07 3 4 3 40 Chris Lett DB Pensacola, Florida Pensacola High School 6 2 195 4.5 05/25/06 3 4 3 77 Marquis Maze WR Tarrant, AL Tarrant High School 5 9 160 4.4 02/07/07 3 3 3 79 Rolando McClain LB Decatur, AL Decatur High School 6 4 240 4.6 06/21/06 4 4 4 79 Alfred McCullough DT Athens, AL Athens High School 6 3 297 4.9 07/09/06 3 4 3 76 Kerry Murphy DT Hoover, AL Hoover High School 6 5 315 5.1 01/14/07 4 4 4 81 Michael Ricks DB Booneville, Mississippi Northeast Mississippi Community College 6 2 195 4.4 02/07/07 NR 4 4 NR Jamar Taylor RB Lakeland, Florida Lakeland Senior High School 5 9 204 4.7 06/07/06 3 3 3 75 Chris Underwood TE Vestavia Hills, AL Vestavia Hills High School 6 4 202 – 01/28/07 2 2 2 40 William Vlachos OL Mountain Brook, AL Mountain Brook High School 6 2 287 5.1 09/13/06 3 3 3 80 Alex Watkins DE Brownsville, Tennessee Haywood High School 6 5 225 4.7 06/18/06 3 4 3 77 Chavis Williams DE Dora, AL Dora High School 6 5 220 4.6 02/02/07 2 3 3 75 yes 2007 Alabama Signee List 2007 Scout.com Football Recruiting: Alabama 2008 Player Signees- Alabama alabama 73 333 22 10 17 August 27, 2011 yes Statistics On the defensive side of the ball, of the 119 FBS schools Alabama ranked 28th in rushing defense (124.15 yards per game), 27th in scoring defense (22.00 points per game), 31st in total defense (345.46 yards per game) and 48th in passing defense (221.31 yards per game).2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Week 19 http://web1.ncaa.org/football/exec/rankingSummary?org=8&year=2007&week=20 NCAA.org November 18, 2012 Individually, Rashad Johnson led the team with 94 total tackles, 57 solo tackles and 37 assisted tackles.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008tackles.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 Wallace Gilberry was 23rd nationally, third in conference and first on the team with 10 quarterback sacks.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Sacks http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008sacks.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 Gilberry was also third nationally, first in conference and first on the team with 22 tackles for loss.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles for loss http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008tacklesloss.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 Rashad Johnson led the team with six of Alabama's nineteen total interceptions of the season.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Interceptions http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008int.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 On offense, of the 119 FBS teams, Alabama ranked 59th in passing offense (224.54 yards per game), 60th in rushing offense (149.23 yards per game), 64th in scoring offense (27.08 points per game) and 75th in total offense (373.77 yards per game). In conference, they ranked sixth in passing offense, seventh in total offense and scoring offense and eighth in rushing offense. Individually, Terry Grant led the team offensively with 891 total yards rushing for an average of 81 rushing yards per game and 8 rushing touchdowns.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Rushing http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008rush.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 John Parker Wilson led the team in passing offense and completed 255 of 462 passes for 2,846 passing yards and 18 touchdowns.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Passing http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008pass.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 D. J. Hall led the team with 67 receptions for 1,005 yards and six touchdown receptions.2007 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Receiving http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/2007/Internet/ranking_summary/2007000000008recv.html NCAA.org November 18, 2012 After the season In the week following the Independence Bowl victory, several changes were made to the Alabama coaching staff. Alabama lost their tight ends and special teams coach, Ron Middleton, on January 4, 2008, when he was hired as assistant head coach for Duke and their offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, Major Applewhite, on January 16, 2008, when he was hired as running backs coach for Texas.Middleton leaves UA for Duke http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080105/NEWS/377529558?Title=Middleton-leaves-UA-for-Duke The Tuscaloosa News January 5, 2008 August 10, 2011It's official, Applewhite takes position at Texas http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080116/TS10/92712686?Title=BREAKING-NEWS-It-s-official-Applewhite-takes-position-at-Texas Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News January 16, 2008 August 10, 2011 During the following weeks, Saban named former Michigan State head coach Bobby Williams as his team's new as tight ends coach and special teams coordinator, and Jim McElwain from Fresno State as the new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3203547 Williams, former Michigan State coach, hired to Saban's Alabama staff Associated Press ESPN January 18, 2008 August 10, 2011https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3222125 McElwain hired to run Alabama's offense Associated Press ESPN January 30, 2008 August 10, 2011 As part of the A-Day celebrations on April 12, 2008, the 2007 team captains Antoine Caldwell, Rashad Johnson and Darren Mustin were honored at the Walk of Fame ceremony at the base of Denny Chimes.A-Day anticipation Jason Morton http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080410/NEWS/579758881 The Tuscaloosa News April 8, 2008 September 4, 2011 Awards Following the SEC Championship Game, the conference named its award winners. Four players were named to the Coaches' All-SEC First Team, including Andre Smith, Wallace Gilberry, Simeon Castille and Rashad Johnson.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120407aaa.html Alabama places six on All-SEC Coaches' Football Team December 4, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 D. J. Hall and Antoine Caldwell were named to the Coaches' All-SEC Second Team. Terry Grant, Rolando McClain and Kareem Jackson were named to the 2007 Freshman All-SEC Team.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120607aaa.html Tide lands three on Freshman All-SEC squad December 6, 2007 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 McClain was also named to the 2007 Freshman All-America team by the Football Writers Association of America.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010808aaa.html Rolando McClain named Freshman All-American January 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 NCAA sanctions In October 2007, the athletic department discovered a potential NCAA-violation present throughout the athletics program.UA investigating improper textbook distribution Tommy Deas C1 The Tuscaloosa News October 23, 2007 The violations stemmed from athletes from several sports, including football, receiving improper benefits as a result of a failure in the distribution system of textbooks to student athletes from the university. As a result of this discovery, Antoine Caldwell, Marlon Davis, Glen Coffee, Marquis Johnson and Chris Rogers were suspended from the team prior to the Tennessee game on October 20.Five Crimson Tide players suspended for violating school textbook policy https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3071566 Associated Press ESPN.com October 20, 2007 October 24, 2011 After a prolonged investigation, in June 2009 the NCAA ruled all athletes that received improper benefits related to the textbook distribution system were deemed ineligible.Sixteen Alabama teams penalized https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4250596 ESPN.com news services ESPN.com June 12, 2009 October 17, 2011 As such, as part of the penalties imposed on the football program, all victories which those included in the inquiry participated, were officially vacated from the all-time record. The penalty to vacate victories does not result in a loss (or forfeiture) of the affected contests or award a victory to the opponent.What does vacating wins really mean? https://www.espn.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/4734/what-does-vacating-wins-really-mean Chris Low ESPN.com June 16, 2009 October 17, 2011 As such, all five victories from the 2007 season prior to the suspension of the ineligible players on October 20 (Western Carolina, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Houston and Ole Miss) were vacated making the official record for the season two wins and six losses (2–6). NFL draft After not having any players selected in the 2008 NFL draft, in the 2009 NFL draft, Alabama had four players that competed as part of the 2007 team selected.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042609aab.html Three Alabama players taken in round three of NFL Draft April 26, 2009 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 The first round selection was Andre Smith (6th Cincinnati Bengals); and the third round picks were Coffee (74th San Francisco 49ers), Caldwell (77th Houston Texans) and Rashad Johnson (95th Arizona Cardinals). John Parker Wilson with the Atlanta Falcons, Bobby Greenwood with the Kansas City Chiefs, Marlon Davis with the Cleveland Browns, Nick Walker with the Minnesota Vikings and Travis McCall with the Buffalo Bills each signed as undrafted free agents.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042709aaa.html Five Tide football players ink free agent deals April 27, 2009 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics September 4, 2011 In the 2010 NFL draft, Alabama had six players selected that competed as part of the 2007 team.Tide's Johnson, Deaderick drafted in final round http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20100425/NEWS/100429759/-1/2010draft?Title=Tide-8217-s-Johnson-Deaderick-drafted-in-final-round Chase Goodbread The Tuscaloosa News April 24, 2010 September 4, 2011 The first round selections were McClain (8th Oakland Raiders) and Jackson (20th Houston Texans); the second round pick was Arenas (50th Kansas City Chiefs); the third round pick was Mike Johnson (98th Atlanta Falcons); and the seventh round picks were Marquis Johnson (211th St. Louis Rams) and Deaderick (247th New England Patriots). Both Peek and Washington, with the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys respectively, signed as undrafted free agents.Team-by-team undrafted free agent signings http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817c7137&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true NFL.com Wire Reports April 2010 September 4, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20101118120651/http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817c7137&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true 2010-11-18 dead Following the 2010 season, Alabama had two players selected that competed as part of the 2007 team in the 2011 NFL draft.Four UA players go in first round http://alabama.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1216817 Chase Goodbread The Tuscaloosa News April 28, 2011 April 29, 2011 James Carpenter was selected in the first round (25th Seattle Seahawks) and Greg McElroy was selected in the seventh round (208th New York Jets).Jets take Alabama QB Greg McElroy in 7th round http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20110430/APS/1104301188?Title=Jets-take-Alabama-QB-Greg-McElroy-in-7th-round Dennis Jr. Waszak Associated Press The Tuscaloosa News April 30, 2011 September 4, 2011 References Alabama Category:Alabama Crimson Tide football seasons Category:Independence Bowl champion seasons Alabama Crimson Tide football