2008 Alabama Crimson Tide football team

American college football season February 2026 August 2023 2008 Alabama Crimson Tide football Alabama Crimson Tide logo.svg 150 Southeastern Conference Western Division SEC 6 6 12–2 8–0 Nick Saban 2nd Jim McElwain 1st Multiple pro-style Kirby Smart 1st 3–4 Antoine Caldwell Rashad Johnson John Parker Wilson Bryant–Denny Stadium SEC Western Division champion SEC Championship Game L Lost 20–31 vs. Florida Sugar Bowl L Lost 17–31 vs. Utah The 2008 Alabama Crimson Tide football team represented the University of Alabama as a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) during the 2008 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Led by second-year head coach Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide compiled an overall record of 12–2 with a mark of 8–0 in conference play, winning the SEC's Western Division title. Alabama advanced to the SEC Championship Game, where the Crimson Tide lost to the eventual national champion, Florida. Alabama was then invited to the Sugar Bowl, losing to Utah. The team played home games at Bryant–Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Crimson Tide opened the season with an upset victory over No. 9 Clemson in the inaugural Chick-fil-A College Kickoff. After the win, Alabama returned home where they defeated non-conference opponents Tulane and Western Kentucky before they traveled to Fayetteville and defeated Arkansas for their first conference win of the season. The next week, The Crimson Tide upset No. 3 Georgia at Athens and moved into the No. 2 ranking. Alabama then defeated Kentucky, Ole Miss, Tennessee and Arkansas State prior to Saban's return to Baton Rouge as an opposing head coach. In Week 10 of the season, Alabama became the No. 1 team in both the AP and Coaches polls as well as the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) standings. It was the first time the Crimson Tide had been ranked No. 1 in the regular season since November 1, 1980, when the top-ranked Tide fell to Mississippi State. It was also the first time Nick Saban had ever achieved the No. 1 position in the AP Poll and the first time in school history Alabama had reached No. 1 in the BCS standings. With their 27–21 overtime win over LSU, Alabama clinched a berth in the SEC Championship Game. The Crimson Tide finished their regular season undefeated with a 36–0 shutout victory over Auburn in the Iron Bowl. This was the Crimson Tide's first undefeated regular season since 1994 and the program's first SEC Western Division championship since the 1999 season. The Tide lost SEC Championship Game to Florida, 31–20. A month later, the Alabama concluded the season with a 31–17 upset loss in the Sugar Bowl against Utah, a game in which the Tide were favored by 10 points. Schedule The Sagarin computer ratings calculated Alabama's strength of schedule to be the sixth most difficult out of the 120 Division I teams.https://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbt08.htm USA Today Jeff Sagarin NCAA football ratings January 8, 2009 August 14, 2011 The Cosgrove Computer Rankings calculated it as the eighth most difficult out of the 120 Division I FBS teams in its rankings.http://www.collegefootballpoll.com/2008_archive_computer_rankings.html 2008–2009 College Football Season Final Congrove Computer Rankings College Football Poll.com August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110722062544/http://www.collegefootballpoll.com/2008_archive_computer_rankings.html July 22, 2011 dead Alabama's 2008 schedule was officially released on January 4, 2008.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010408aaa.html Alabama releases 2008 football schedule RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics January 4, 2008 August 13, 2011 It featured six pre-season AP Top 25 teams, five of which were ranked in the top 10, eight of which made bowl games in 2007.https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/1 2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Preseason (Aug. 24) ESPN.com August 14, 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 Kentucky.August 8, 2006 SEC Football scheduling format http://www.secdigitalnetwork.com/NEWS/tabid/473/Article/126578/sec-football-scheduling-format.aspx dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120404095555/http://www.secdigitalnetwork.com/NEWS/tabid/473/Article/126578/sec-football-scheduling-format.aspx 2012-04-04 August 11, 2011 SECsports.com The Southeastern Conference en-US Alabama did not play SEC opponents South Carolina and Vanderbilt. Although not on the regular season schedule, Bama met Florida in the SEC Championship Game.https://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/2008-11-09-702588581_x.htm Florida sets up SEC title game with No. 1 Alabama Teresa M. Walker USA Today November 9, 2008 August 14, 2011 Alabama also played four non-conference games. The non-conference schedule included games against Clemson of the Atlantic Coast Conference, Tulane of Conference USA and both Western Kentucky and Arkansas State of the Sun Belt Conference.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html#2008 All-time Football Results: 2008 Season RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 11, 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 2009 Sugar Bowl, Alabama played Utah.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081208/NEWS/812089984 Big easy bound Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News December 8, 2008 August 14, 2011 2008 AP Central August 30 7:00 p.m. w y y 24 Clemson 9 Georgia Dome Atlanta, GA Chick-fil-A College Kickoff, rivalry, College GameDay ABC 34–10 70,097 September 6 6:00 p.m. w y 13 Tulane Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 20–6 92,138 September 13 6:00 p.m. w y 11 Western Kentucky Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 41–7 92,138 September 20 11:30 a.m. w y 9 Arkansas Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium Fayetteville, AR Raycom 49–14 72,315 September 27 6:45 p.m. w y 8 Georgia 3 Sanford Stadium Athens, GA rivalry, College GameDay ESPN 41–30 92,746 October 4 2:30 p.m. w 2 Kentucky Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL CBS 17–14 92,138 October 18 2:30 p.m. w 2 Ole Miss Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL rivalry CBS 24–20 92,138 October 25 6:45 p.m. w y 2 Tennessee Neyland Stadium Knoxville, TN Third Saturday in October ESPN 29–9 106,138 November 1 2:00 p.m. w y y 2 Arkansas State Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL PPV 35–0 92,138 November 8 2:30 p.m. w y 1 LSU 15 Tiger Stadium Baton Rouge, LA rivalry, College GameDay CBS 27–21 OT 93,039 November 15 6:45 p.m. w 1 Mississippi State Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL rivalry ESPN 32–7 92,138 November 29 2:30 p.m. w 1 Auburn Bryant–Denny Stadium Tuscaloosa, AL Iron Bowl CBS 36–0 92,138 December 6 3:00 p.m. l y 1 Florida 2 Georgia Dome Atlanta, GA SEC Championship Game, rivalry, College GameDay CBS 20–31 75,892 January 2, 2009 7:00 p.m. l y y 4 Utah 7 Louisiana Superdome New Orleans, LA Sugar Bowl Fox 17–31 71,872 Alabama Crimson Tide Schedule 2008 https://www.espn.com/college-football/team/schedule/_/id/333/season/2008 ESPN August 16, 2025 2008 Alabama Crimson Tide Schedule and Results https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/alabama/2008-schedule.html College Football at Sports-Reference.com Sports Reference August 16, 2025 2008 Football Schedule https://rolltide.com/sports/football/schedule/2008 University of Alabama August 16, 2025 Rankings 2008 NCAA Division I FBS football rankings Entering the 2008 season, the Crimson Tide was ranked No. 24 in the AP Poll and was not ranked in the Coaches' Preseason Poll.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Preseason https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/1 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 After their upset victory over Clemson in week one, Alabama moved into the No. 13 position in the AP and No. 17 in the Coaches' Poll.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 2 https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/2 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 The Crimson Tide continued to move up in both polls each week through week seven when they reached the No. 2 position in both polls after their victory at Georgia.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 8 https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/8 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 The Crimson Tide remained in the No. 2 position over the next four weeks until No. 1 Texas was upset by Texas Tech in week nine.Crabtree, No. 7 Red Raiders knock off top-ranked Longhorns in Lubbock https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/283062641 https://web.archive.org/web/20230502132111/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/283062641 dead May 2, 2023 Associated Press ESPN.com November 1, 2008 July 9, 2013 In the polls released after the Texas loss, the Crimson Tide moved into the No. 1 position in both polls.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 12 https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/12 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 Alabama remained in the No. 1 position until their loss in the SEC Championship Game to Florida when they dropped into the No. 4 position prior to their bowl game appearance.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 16 https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/16 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 They then ended the season with a final ranking of No. 6 in both polls after their loss to Utah in the Sugar Bowl.2008 NCAA Football Rankings – Postseason https://www.espn.com/college-football/rankings/_/year/2008/week/1/seasontype/3 ESPN.com July 9, 2013 16 5 8 24 RV 13 17 11 16 9 13 8 10 2 4 3 2 4 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 4 4 4 6 6 Before the season During the 2007 campaign, the Crimson Tide completed a 6–6 regular season record with their most notable wins coming over No. 16 Arkansas and longtime rival Tennessee.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 11, 2011 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120713171913/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/archive/m-footbl-results-archive.html July 13, 2012 The Tide went on to win their final game against Colorado (30–24) in the Independence Bowl to finish with a 7–6 record. In June 2009, the NCAA Committee on Infractions sanctioned Alabama for "major violations" of NCAA policies as a result of athletes who received improper benefits in 16 of 19 NCAA sports, including football.Sixteen Alabama teams penalized https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4250596 Associated Press ESPN.com June 12, 2009 August 11, 2011 As part of the penalties imposed, the football program was forced to vacate five victories from the 2007 season making the official 2007 record 2–6. In February 2008, Alabama signed the No. 1 recruiting class according to both Rivals and Scout.https://sports.yahoo.com/Alabama/football/recruiting/teamrank/2008/all/all 2008 Team Rankings Rivals.com August 11, 2011https://sports.yahoo.com/Alabama/football/recruiting/teamrank/2008/all/all 2008 College Football Team Recruiting Rankings Scout.com August 11, 2011 Spring practice began on March 13 and concluded with the annual A-Day game on April 12.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080313/NEWS/972610500/1007 Alabama spring practice begins today The Tuscaloosa News March 13, 2008 August 11, 2011http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080413/NEWS/381927811 Passing game dominates in Crimson team victory Cecil Hurt The Tuscaloosa News April 13, 2008 August 11, 2011 Before a crowd of 78,200, the Crimson team defeated the White team by a score of 24–14 in Bryant–Denny Stadium. For their performances, Alfred McCullough earned the Dwight Stephenson Lineman of the A-Day Game Award and Terry Grant earned the Dixie Howell Memorial Most Valuable Player of the A-Day Game Award. Returning starters Alabama had 18 returning starters from the previous season,2008 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide, p. 10 including nine on offense, five on defense, and all of the special teams. The most notable departures from the previous year were D. J. Hall and Justin Britt on offense and Wallace Gilberry, Darren Mustin, Keith Saunders, Ezekial Knight, Simeon Castille and Marcus Carter on defense. Offense Player Class Position John Parker Wilson Senior Quarterback Terry Grant Sophomore Running back Mike McCoy Junior Wide receiver Travis McCall Senior Tight end Nick Walker Senior Tight end Antoine Caldwell Senior Center Marlon Davis Senior Offensive tackle Andre Smith Junior Offensive tackle Mike Johnson Junior Offensive guard Defense Player Class Position Brandon Deaderick Junior Defensive end Lorenzo Washington Junior Nose tackle Rolando McClain Sophomore Linebacker Rashad Johnson Senior Safety Kareem Jackson Sophomore Cornerback Special teams Player Class Position P. J. Fitzgerald Junior Punter Leigh Tiffin Junior Placekicker Javier Arenas Junior Return specialist Brian Selman Junior Long snapper Game summaries Clemson 2008 Clemson Tigers football team Chick-fil-A College Kickoff Chick-fil-A College Kickoff #24 Alabama 13 10 8 3 #9 Clemson 0 3 7 0 Atlanta, Georgia 8:12 p.m. Eastern 3:23 70,097 Indoors Thomas Ritter Brent Musburger (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (color), Erin Andrews (sideline), Lisa Salters (sideline) ABC Sources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/082508aae.html Crimson Tide tangles with No. 9 Tigers August 25, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama01.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Clemson: Scoring Summary August 30, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202154330/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama01.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all alt=American football players in play midfield.|thumb|left|Clemson lines up on offense during the third quarter. In January 2008, officials from both Clemson and Alabama announced they would open the 2008 season against each other in the inaugural Chick-fil-A College Kickoff at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.Alabama to open 2008 season with Clemson in Georgia Dome https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3182206 Associated Press ESPN.com January 5, 2008 November 2, 2010It's official: Clemson vs. Alabama http://blog.al.com/rapsheet/2008/01/its_official_clemson_vs_alabam.html Ian Rapoport The Birmingham News January 5, 2008 November 2, 2010 With ESPN's College GameDay in town, and Clemson, selected as the preseason favorite to win the Atlantic Coast Conference, the Crimson Tide upset the Tigers 34–10 to open the season.ESPN College GameDay will be in Atlanta for Alabama-Clemson game http://blog.al.com/rapsheet/2008/08/espn_college_gameday_will_be_i.html Ian Rapoport The Birmingham News August 5, 2008 November 2, 2010https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/21/AR2008072102511.html Clemson favored to win ACC for first time in T. Bowden's tenure Steve Yanda The Washington Post July 22, 2008 November 2, 2010No. 24 Alabama limits No. 9 Clemson's ground game in upset victory https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282430228 https://web.archive.org/web/20171027180641/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282430228 dead October 27, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com August 30, 2008 November 2, 2010 After opening the scoring on a 54-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal, Cory Reamer forced a Jamie Harper fumble recovered by Dont'a Hightower at the Clemson 31.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama01.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Clemson: Play-by-Play Summary August 30, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics November 2, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202154330/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama01.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all The ensuing drive resulted in a 21-yard Tiffin field goal and a 6–0 lead. After holding the Tigers to a three and out, the Tide reached the end zone for the first time on the evening on a one-yard John Parker Wilson touchdown run to extend the lead to 13–0. After Mark Buchholz hit a 33-yard field goal early in the second quarter, Alabama extended their lead to 20–3 after Wilson hit Nick Walker for a four-yard touchdown reception on the following drive. After a missed 52-yard Tiffin field goal, Marquis Johnson intercepted a Cullen Harper pass on the next Clemson possession to set up a 34-yard Tiffin field goal as time expired to give Alabama a 23–3 halftime lead. Clemson opened the second half with C. J. Spiller returning the opening kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown to cut the lead to 23–10. Alabama responded later in the third quarter with a four-yard Wilson touchdown pass to Julio Jones in extending the lead to 31–10. Tiffin added the final points of the evening on a 26-yard field goal to cap a 14 play, 78 yard drive in bringing the final score to 34–10. James Davis and C.J. Spiller, the duo known as "Thunder and Lightning," combined for only 20 yards on the ground, while the team's rushing total was 0.https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/31/AR2008083100017.html Thunder and Lightning silenced, Tide rolls on Pete Iacobelli Associated Press The Washington Post August 31, 2008 November 2, 2010 Clemson's redshirt senior quarterback, Cullen Harper, completed 20 of 34 passes but had no touchdowns and one interception. Alabama's John Parker Wilson completed 22 of 30 passes with no interceptions. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 12–3.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/083108aaa.html Alabama vs Clemson Postgame Notes August 30, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics November 2, 2010 Image:Georgia Dome 2008-08-30 2.jpg 4226 1000 The interior of the Georgia Dome prior to kickoff. Fans enter the red and black seats in the Georgia Dome prior to the game. 200 Tulane 2008 Tulane Green Wave football team Tulane 0 3 0 3 #13 Alabama 13 0 7 0 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 6:07 p.m. Central 3:04 92,138 82 F, Mostly cloudy 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/090108aab.html Alabama hosts Tulane in 2008 home opener September 1, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama02.html#GAME.SUM Tulane vs Alabama: Scoring Summary September 6, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Alabama's season home-opener saw the Crimson Tide defeat Tulane 20–6, in the 41st meeting between the two teams and the first since 1994.Despite valiant effort Tulane's football team falls to Alabama Kevin Spain The Times-Picayune New Orleans, LA September 6, 2008 http://blog.nola.com/tulanebeat/2008/09/tuscaloosa_ala_maybe_alabama.html November 9, 2010No. 13 Bama needs Arenas' kick returns spark win over Tulane https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282500333 https://web.archive.org/web/20210121233527/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282500333 dead January 21, 2021 Associated Press ESPN.com September 6, 2008 November 9, 2010http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/090108aab.html Alabama hosts Tulane in 2008 home opener September 1, 2010 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics November 9, 2010 Alabama received the opening kickoff, but went three-and-out on their first possession.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama02.html#GAME.PLY Tulane vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary September 6, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics November 9, 2010 After the Bama defense stopped Tulane on their opening possession, Javier Arenas ignited the crowd on an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown and a 7–0 lead. Later in the first quarter, Chris Rogers returned a blocked punt 17-yards for a touchdown, though freshman kicker Corey Smith missed the extra point resulting in a 13–0 lead. Tulane scored the only points of the second quarter on a 35-yard Ross Thevenot field goal in bringing the halftime score to 13–3. At the end of the third, Mark Ingram II scored the lone offensive touchdown of the game on a 15-yard run and a 21-yard Thevenot field goal in the fourth brought the game to its final 20–6 margin. For the game, Javier Arenas set a school record with 147 yards on punt returns, eclipsing the previous mark of 141 yards set by Harry Gilmer against Georgia in 1947.Arenas nearly a one-man show Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News September 7, 2008 http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080907/NEWS/809070273 November 9, 2010 For his performance, Arenas was named the SEC Special Teams Player of the Week.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111708aab.html Arenas named SEC Special Teams Player of the Week November 17, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics November 9, 2010 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Green Wave to 27–11–3. WKU 2008 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers football team WKU 0 7 0 0 #11 Alabama 17 14 10 0 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 6:07 p.m. Central 2:51 92,138 Fair, 88 F, Wind: 13 mph on from SSE Penn Wagers Chris Stewart (play-by-play), Tyler Watts (color), Barry Krauss (sideline) CTSN PPVSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/090808aac.html Alabama hosts Western Kentucky September 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama03.html#GAME.SUM Western Kentucky vs Alabama: Scoring Summary September 13, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 In week three, Alabama defeated the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 41–7, who were playing their second season in the FBS.Wilson becomes Alabama's offensive leader in rout of WKU https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282570333 https://web.archive.org/web/20200925135814/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282570333 dead September 25, 2020 Associated Press ESPN.com September 13, 2008 August 14, 2011 The Bama defense held the Hilltoppers offense to a three-and-out on their first drive of the game. The Crimson Tide offense took over and completed a twelve-play drive that ended with a seven-yard touchdown run by Mark Ingram II.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama03.html#GAME.PLY Western Kentucky vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary September 13, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 WKU fumbled on the first play of their subsequent drive, and Alabama recovered the ball on the WKU 17-yard line, setting up a 22-yard field goal by Leigh Tiffin. Ingram scored his second touchdown of the afternoon on a five-yard run to give Alabama a 17–0 at the end of the first quarter. Alabama scored on their first possession of the second quarter on an eight-yard Terry Grant touchdown run to cap a 9-play, 78-yard drive. John Parker Wilson threw an interception on the first play of the next drive. This set up the Hilltoppers' lone score of the afternoon on a 30-yard touchdown reception by Tristan Jones from David Wolke. Alabama put one more touchdown on the scoreboard on a two-yard Nick Walker reception from Wilson, to take a 31–7 lead into halftime. On the first drive of the second half, the Bama offense was held to a 25-yard, Tiffin field goal, making the score 34–7. The defense held WKU to a three-and-out on their first possession of the second half. This set up a seven-play, 55-yard drive that ended with a 12-yard touchdown pass from Wilson to Julio Jones. Alabama benched most of their starters at the end of the third quarter, and neither team scored in the fourth quarter, to make the final score of 41–7. Arkansas 2008 Arkansas Razorbacks football team #9 Alabama 21 14 7 7 Arkansas 0 7 0 7 Fayetteville, Arkansas 11:34 a.m. Central 2:57 72,315 Partly cloudy, 65 F, Wind: 3 mph on from NNE Matt Austin Dave Neal (play-by-play), David Archer (color), Dave Baker (sideline) RaycomSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/091508aaa.html Alabama opens SEC play at Arkansas September 15, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama04.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Arkansas: Scoring Summary September 20, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 In what was head coach Bobby Petrino's first game against Alabama, the Crimson Tide were victorious by a final score of 49–14 against the Arkansas Razorbacks in Fayetteville.Interception returns for TDs spark No. 9 Tide's blowout of Arkansas https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282640008 https://web.archive.org/web/20170815061958/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282640008 dead August 15, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com September 20, 2008 August 14, 2011 The Tide received the opening kickoff, and put together a ten-play, 71-yard drive with Mark Ingram II scoring on a one-yard touchdown run.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama04.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Arkansas: Play-by-play Summary September 20, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Arkansas was forced to punt on their first drive, and on the first play of the subsequent Alabama drive, Glen Coffee ran 87 yards for the Tide's second touchdown and a 14–0 lead.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080920/NEWS/809200252 Coffee too strong for Razorbacks Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News September 20, 2008 August 14, 2011 In the final minute of the first quarter, Javier Arenas intercepted a Casey Dick pass and returned it 63-yards for a touchdown to give Alabama a 21–0 lead at the end of the first quarter.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080920/NEWS/809200250 Tide defense comes up with big plays at key moments Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News September 20, 2008 August 14, 2011 Arkansas started their next drive at their own 47-yard line after a 41-yard kickoff return by Dennis Johnson, and drove 53-yards for a touchdown, scoring on fourth-and-one from the Bama twelve-yard line on a Dick pass to Andrew Davie. Bama responded with a 68-yard drive capped off by a 25-yard touchdown pass from John Parker Wilson to Julio Jones. Arkansas put together a steady drive on their next possession, but Justin Woodall intercepted Dick at the Bama 26-yard line and returned it 74-yards for a touchdown. Arkansas put together another solid drive, but facing a first and goal at the Bama one-yard line, Arkansas was kept out by the stout Bama defense on a goal line stand to close out the half with Bama up 35–7. Arkansas received the second half kickoff, but Alabama's Marquis Johnson intercepted Dick's pass on the first play of the second half, to set up a 31-yard touchdown run by Glen Coffee. By the end of the third quarter, both teams had put in their substitutes. On Alabama's first possession of the fourth quarter, backup quarterback Greg McElroy's pass was intercepted by Ramon Broadway, setting up a 10-yard touchdown pass by Arkansas second-string quarterback Tyler Wilson to Michael Smith. On the first play of Bama's next drive, Roy Upchurch ran 62-yards for Alabama's final touchdown to make the final score 49–14. The 49 points were the most points scored by Alabama in an SEC game since a 59–28 victory over Vanderbilt in 1990.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/092008aab.html Alabama vs Arkansas: Game Notes September 20, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Razorbacks to 9–8 (12–7 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Georgia 2008 Georgia Bulldogs football team #8 Alabama 10 21 0 10 #3 Georgia 0 0 10 20 Athens, Georgia 7:48 p.m. Eastern 3:10 92,746 Cloudy, 72 F, Wind: 1 mph on from WNW Marc Curles Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (color), Holly Rowe (sideline) ESPNSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/092208aaa.html Alabama travels to Georgia September 22, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama05.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Georgia: Scoring Summary September 27, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202115704/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama05.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all With ESPN's College Gameday in Athens, and Georgia wearing black jerseys for only the third time in school history, the Crimson Tide upset the Bulldogs 41–30, in a game that will forever be known as "The Blackout".No. 8 Alabama turns up heat in first half on way to win over No. 3 Georgia https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282710061 https://web.archive.org/web/20170815024950/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282710061 dead August 15, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com September 27, 2008 August 14, 2011Bulldogs decide to wear black for only third time ever https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3602063 ESPN.com news services ESPN.com September 22, 2008 August 14, 2011 Georgia won the opening coin toss, deferring to receive in the second half. Alabama quickly took control of the game, moving the ball 73-yards before Mark Ingram II ran for a 7-yard touchdown to make the score 7–0.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama05.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs Georgia: Play-by-play Summary September 27, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202115704/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama05.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all After the Bulldogs failed to move the ball on their first drive, the Tide again put points on the board as Leigh Tiffin kicked a 23-yard field goal with 4:51 left in the first quarter, to give Alabama 10–0 lead. After the Bulldogs offense again failed to move the ball, Alabama began a drive at the Georgia 48-yard line. Two plays later, a 31-yard pass from John Parker Wilson to Julio Jones moved the ball inside of the Georgia five-yard line. Glen Coffee ran in for his third touchdown of the season, and Alabama led 17–0. On Georgia's next drive, quarterback Matthew Stafford completed a 16-yard pass to wide receiver A. J. Green, who fumbled the ball which was subsequently fumbled and recovered by Dont'a Hightower. After a short drive, Roy Upchurch scored Alabama's third rushing touchdown to extend their lead to 24–0. Before the halftime break, Wilson connected with Julio Jones for a 22-yard touchdown pass as Alabama led 31–0 at half. In the second half, Georgia's offense began moving the ball, scoring on their first drive of the half when Blair Walsh kicked a 33-yard field goal. On Alabama's sixth drive of the game, Georgia defense forced a three-and-out for the first time, forcing a P. J. Fitzgerald punt. Georgia again cut into the lead later in the third quarter when running back Knowshon Moreno ran for a two-yard touchdown, to cap a 58-yard drive and cut Alabama's lead to 31–10. Georgia made it a game again when Prince Miller returned a Fitzgerald punt for a 92-yard touchdown making the score 31–17. They wouldn't get any closer. On the following drive, Alabama extended their lead to 34–17 on a 32-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal. On a crucial drive in the fourth quarter, Alabama converted when Glen Coffee gave Alabama a 41–17 lead by scoring his second rushing touchdown of the game on a 12-yard run. The following drive, Georgia struck back when Matthew Stafford completed a 24-yard touchdown pass to Michael Moore, though failed in an attempted two-point conversion. Georgia got the ball back after a successful onside kick, starting their drive at the Alabama 40-yard line. A. J. Green caught a 21-yard touchdown pass from Stafford again for their final score of the game, as Alabama survived 41–30. With the victory, the Crimson Tide snapped a three-game losing streak to the Bulldogs, dating back to the 1995 season.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/092708aab.html Alabama vs Georgia: Game Notes September 27, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 The 41 points were the most ever scored by the Tide against Georgia, and the victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Bulldogs to 36–25–4. Kentucky 2008 Kentucky Wildcats football team Kentucky 0 0 7 7 #2 Alabama 14 0 0 3 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 3:35 p.m. Central 3:10 92,138 Sunny, 86 F, Wind: 4 mph on from SW Hubert Owens Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBSSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/092908aab.html No. 2 Alabama hosts Kentucky September 29, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama06.html#GAME.SUM Kentucky vs Alabama: Scoring Summary October 4, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 The Crimson Tide entered their game against the Kentucky Wildcats as the No. 2 ranked team in America, their highest ranking in fifteen years, and escaped with a 17–14 victory.Coffee runs for 218 yards as Alabama stops Kentucky https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282780333 https://web.archive.org/web/20170815062525/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282780333 dead August 15, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com October 4, 2008 August 14, 2011 After early stalled drives from each team, Alabama began their first successful drive with 12:25 left in the first quarter. Glen Coffee ran ahead for a short, 3-yard gain, and on the next play, John Parker Wilson connected with Julio Jones for a 40-yard pass; however, the play was negated following a penalty.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama06.html#GAME.PLY Kentucky vs. Alabama: Play-by-play Summary October 4, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 On the next play, Coffee rushed through the middle of the line for a 78-yard touchdown, his second longest and fifth rushing touchdown of the season.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081004/NEWS/810040267 No. 38 has performance to remember Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News October 4, 2008 August 14, 2011 With under two minutes to go, Kentucky quarterback Mike Hartline fumbled while attempting a pass, which Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain recovered and returned four yards for a touchdown. Leigh Tiffin missed the extra point, though after an offside penalty, he was given another attempt which he converted.http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/huntsvilletimes/index.ssf?/base/sports/1223198219115830.xml&coll=1&thispage=1 Tiffin salvages disastrous day with 4th quarter kick Gentry Estes The Huntsville Times October 5, 2008 August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110609072250/http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/huntsvilletimes/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fsports%2F1223198219115830.xml&coll=1&thispage=1 2011-06-09 dead After both offenses failed to score in the second quarter, Alabama took a 14–0 lead into the halftime break. Halfway into the third quarter, Kentucky's offense finally got on the scoreboard when Hartline connected on a 26-yard touchdown pass to Dicky Lyons Jr. Once more, both offenses were unable to move the ball for rest of the third quarter. Early in the fourth quarter, Alabama began their second-to-last drive with 11:10 remaining, defending a 14–7 lead. The drive included twelve rushing attempts and a pass to Julio Jones, as Alabama moved the ball 81 yards in just over eight minutes. After a delay of game penalty, Leigh Tiffin connected on the game-winning, 24-yard field goal which gave Alabama a 17–7 lead. With 2:12 remaining, Hartline and the Kentucky offense again took the field. After a mix of successful and incomplete passes, Kentucky faced a 3rd-and-10 on the Crimson Tide 48-yard line. A 48-yard touchdown pass from Hartline to receiver DeMoreo Ford cut the Alabama lead to three. A failed onside kick attempt ended Kentucky's hope for a comeback, as Alabama escaped with a 17–14 victory. Despite the lack of offensive points, Alabama running back Glen Coffee rushed for a season-high 218 yards on 25 attempts, including a touchdown and two fumbles. The 218 yards gained by Coffee was the most by an Alabama rusher since Shaun Alexander in 1996. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Wildcats to 34–2–1.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/100408aal.html Kentucky vs. Alabama: Game Notes October 4, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Image:Bryant-Denny Stadium panorama2.jpg 1500 466 The interior of Bryant-Denny Stadium during the fourth quarter. A setting sun with the interior of Bryant-Denny Stadium full of fans and players on the field. 275 Ole Miss 2008 Ole Miss Rebels football team Alabama–Ole Miss football rivalry Ole Miss 3 0 7 10 #2 Alabama 7 17 0 0 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 2:35 p.m. Central 3:10 92,138 Sunny, 72 F, Wind: 13 mph on from N Matt Moore Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBSSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101308aaa.html Alabama set to host Mississippi October 13, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama07.html#GAME.SUM Ole Miss vs Alabama: Scoring Summary October 18, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Playing after their first bye week of the season, Alabama returned to the field and defeated their long-time rival Ole Miss Rebels 24–20.Wilson powers Alabama with season-high 219 passing yards https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282920333 https://web.archive.org/web/20170407055341/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282920333 dead April 7, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com October 18, 2008 August 14, 2011 After several early failed drives in the opening quarter, Ole Miss became the first team to score on Alabama in the first quarter, as well as the first to have a lead against the Crimson Tide in 2008 after a successful 25-yard Joshua Shene field goal.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama07.html#GAME.PLY Ole Miss vs. Alabama: Play-by-play Summary October 18, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 The Crimson Tide responded on their next drive with a 26-yard touchdown pass from John Parker Wilson to Marquis Maze to take a 7–3 lead to end the first quarter. Ole Miss had limited offense in the second quarter as the Tide defense held a shutout for the remainder of the half. However, the offense scored 17 points coming on a 2-yard run from Mark Ingram II, a 41-yard field goal from Leigh Tiffin, and a 30-yard touchdown pass from Wilson to Mike McCoy to take a 24–3 at halftime. However, the second half was different as the Crimson Tide failed to score for the remainder of the game. Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt gambled on a 4th-and-goal with a fake field goal attempt, as Rob Park passed to Jason Cook for a 9-yard touchdown. Several minutes into the fourth quarter, Ole Miss again cut Alabama's lead to 24–17 after Jevan Snead threw a 17-yard touchdown strike to Shay Hodge. Three minutes later, Shene hit a 35-yard field goal to cut Alabama's lead to 24–20. A stalled drive forced Alabama punter P. J. Fitzgerald to give the ball to the Rebels with 3:03 left. The Rebels moved the ball steadily down the field over the next two minutes, however turned it over on downs after a failed 4th-and-5 on Alabama's 43-yard line. The victory pushed Alabama to 6–0, giving them bowl eligibility, and was the team's fifth in a row over the Rebels and improved Alabama's all-time record against Ole Miss to 42–9–2 (46–8–2 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/101808aab.html Ole Miss vs. Alabama: Game Notes October 18, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Tennessee 2008 Tennessee Volunteers football team Third Saturday in October #2 Alabama 6 7 9 7 Tennessee 3 0 0 6 Knoxville, Tennessee 7:46 p.m. Eastern 3:09 106,138 Partly Cloudy, 54 F, Wind: 5 mph on from W Thomas Ritter Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (color), Holly Rowe (sideline) ESPNSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/102008aac.html Alabama meets Tennessee for 91st Time October 20, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama08.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Tennessee: Scoring Summary October 25, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202144609/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama08.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all In their annual rivalry game, Alabama met their rival to the north in the Tennessee Volunteers and was victorious 29–9.Wilson, Jones help unbeaten No. 2 Alabama rock Tennessee https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282992633 https://web.archive.org/web/20230414191348/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=282992633 dead April 14, 2023 Associated Press ESPN.com October 25, 2008 August 14, 2011 Teams traded field goals in the first quarter with Leigh Tiffin converting from 39 and 43 yards for Alabama and Daniel Lincoln converting one from 31 yards for Tennessee to give the Tide a 6–3 at the end the first quarter.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama08.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs. Tennessee: Play-by-play Summary October 25, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202144609/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama08.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all In the second quarter, the Crimson Tide offense moved down the field with Glen Coffee scoring on a three-yard touchdown run. With 2:41 remaining in the first half, the Volunteers started their final drive of the half at their own 22-yard line. The Tennessee offense quickly moved the ball down the field with several key Nick Stephens completions. A 5-yard procedure penalty on the offense set up a third-and-six on Alabama's 19-yard line. Stephens completed a pass to Lucas Taylor; however, it did not count as Taylor was flagged for offensive pass interference. After failing to gain enough yardage on third down, the Volunteers again attempted a field goal, and after a timeout in attempt to "ice the kicker" by Nick Saban, Lincoln missed his second field goal of the game to give Alabama a 13–3 halftime lead. The Tide quickly took control of the third quarter, forcing a three-and-out on Tennessee's first possession. Alabama answered with a 30-yard Tiffin field goal to extend their lead to 16–3. After another forced three-and-out, Alabama steadily moved the ball downfield before John Parker Wilson rushed for a one-yard touchdown. However, the two-point conversion was not successful and Alabama led 22–3. Early in the fourth quarter, Roy Upchurch sealed the Alabama victory with a four-yard touchdown run. A Josh Briscoe touchdown reception from Stephens cut into the lead, but the Tide stopped the two-point conversion, giving them a 29–9 victory. The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against Tennessee to 45–38–7 (47–37–7 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/102508aaa.html Alabama vs. Tennessee: Game Notes October 25, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 It was the final game of the rivalry for Tennessee head coach Phillip Fulmer, who resigned 10 days later.https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3679810 Fulmer agrees to step aside as Vols coach at end of season Low Chris ESPN.com November 4, 2008 August 14, 2011 Arkansas State 2008 Arkansas State Red Wolves football team Arkansas State 0 0 0 0 #2 Alabama 7 7 14 7 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 2:07 p.m. Central 2:42 92,138 Sunny, 74 F, Wind: 4 mph on from NE Ken Williamson Chris Stewart (play-by-play), Tyler Watts (color), Barry Krauss (sideline) CTSN PPVSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/102708aaa.html Alabama hosts Arkansas State for Homecoming October 27, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama09.html#GAME.SUM Arkansas State vs Alabama: Scoring Summary November 1, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Alabama faced the Arkansas State Red Wolves for only the second time in school history, the first being a 34–7 victory in the 1982 season, and was victorious 35–0.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/110108aaa.html Arkansas State vs. Alabama: Game Notes November 1, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011Alabama routs Arkansas State for first shutout since 2005 https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283060333 https://web.archive.org/web/20220524193013/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283060333 dead May 24, 2022 Associated Press ESPN.com November 1, 2008 August 14, 2011 The Crimson Tide offense got on the scoreboard first after a stalled Red Wolves opening drive. After the Crimson Tide offense drove 89-yards in just under eight minutes, Glen Coffee ran for a 9-yard touchdown to give Alabama a 7–0 lead.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama09.html#GAME.PLY Arkansas State vs. Alabama: Play-by-play Summary November 1, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Both offenses failed to move the ball far down field, resulting in several punts and a Wilson interception by Red Wolves defensive back Dominique Williams. Midway through the fourth quarter, Alabama safety Rashad Johnson intercepted a Corey Leonard pass and returned it for 32-yards and a touchdown to give the Tide a 14–0 at the half. On Alabama's opening second half drive, Roy Upchurch ran for a 22-yard touchdown to give Alabama a 21–0 lead. Both offenses again stalled before Alabama's freshman running back Mark Ingram II ran for a 5-yard touchdown to extend the Crimson Tide lead to 28–0.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081104/WVUA03/811042502/1004/SPORTS?Title=Football_Notebook__Ingram_Named_SEC_Freshman_of_the_Week Ingram named SEC Freshman of the Week The Tuscaloosa News November 4, 2008 August 14, 2011 Midway through the fourth quarter, Ingram again scored on a 17-yard rush for the final score of the game. Ingram finished the game with 12 carries for 113 yards, including two touchdowns, and for his performance was named the SEC Freshman of the Week. The following day, the Crimson Tide achieved their first regular season No. 1 ranking in the AP Poll since the 1980 season,http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081103/news/811020282 Tide ranks no. 1 Deas Tommy The Tuscaloosa News November 3, 2008 August 14, 2011 and their first ever #1 BCS ranking.http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=871247 On the BCS: Alabama moves into top spot Huguenin Mark Rivals.com November 2, 2008 August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120215004631/http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=871247 2012-02-15 dead LSU 2008 LSU Tigers football team Alabama–LSU football rivalry #1 Alabama 7 7 7 0 6 #15 LSU 14 0 0 7 0 Baton Rouge, Louisiana 2:35 p.m. Central 3:49 92,138 Clear, 78 F, Wind: 12-15 mph on from W Penn Wagers Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBSSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/110308aab.html No. 1 ranked Alabama meets LSU in Baton Rouge November 3, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama10.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs LSU: Scoring Summary November 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202171103/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama10.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all Nick Saban returned to Tiger Stadium for the first time since his tenure as the Miami Dolphins head coach. Alabama entered the game as the No. 1 ranked team in all major polls, and defeated the LSU Tigers 27–21 in overtime.Saban makes victorious return to Tiger Stadium as Bama stays unbeaten https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283130099 https://web.archive.org/web/20170719201525/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283130099 dead July 19, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com November 8, 2008 August 14, 2011 Alabama's offense quickly got the ball moving, as the team marched down to the LSU 26-yard line. John Parker Wilson passed to Earl Alexander, who proceeded to pick up 25-yards before fumbling out of the endzone, resulting in a touchback for the Tigers.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama10.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs LSU: Play-by-play Summary November 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202171103/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama10.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all On the first LSU possession, the Tigers ran three plays for a loss of seven yards before Alabama safety Rashad Johnson intercepted Jarrett Lee, returning it to the LSU 15-yard line. Glen Coffee moved the ball to the goal line, before John Parker Wilson dove into the endzone two plays later for a 7–0 lead. The Tigers came back to tie the game on their next drive as Jarrett Lee completed a 30-yard touchdown pass to Demetrius Byrd. On the ensuing kickoff, Alabama's Javier Arenas fumbled the ball, which was recovered by Josh Jasper at the Tide's 30-yard line. After a Lee incomplete pass, running back Charles Scott scored on a 30-yard rush, giving LSU a 14–7 lead. After both offenses slowed down, Alabama tied the game after Rashad Johnson intercepted a pass, and returned it for 54-yards and a touchdown to tie the score at 14–14 at the half. Early in the third quarter, Alabama regained the lead 21–14 on a three-yard Glen Coffee touchdown run. Both offenses again began to struggle, as Alabama punted on their next two possessions. Early in the first quarter, LSU put together a long possession which ran more than six minutes off the game clock. Charles Scott ran for his second touchdown of the game as the Tigers tied the game at 21–21 with 6:12 left on the clock. With 1:58 left in the game, Alabama received the ball on their own 41-yard line following another LSU punt. Glen Coffee and the offense steadily moved the ball downfield to the LSU eleven-yard line. With several seconds left on the clock, Alabama lined up for a game-winning, 29-yard field goal from Leigh Tiffin. However, Tiffin missed his second field goal of the game when Ricky Jean-Francois blocked the field goal, sending the game into overtime. Alabama won the overtime coin toss, choosing to play on defense first. On their first possession, Charles Scott of LSU ran for a 5-yard gain. Richard Murphy rushed for a loss of one on the following play, as Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain stopped him short of the line of scrimmage. On third down, Jarrett Lee threw his fourth interception of the game when Rashad Johnson again intercepted a pass. The interception ended LSU's first overtime possession, giving the ball to Alabama. The Tide offense came out throwing, as John Parker Wilson completed a 23-yard strike to Julio Jones, moving the ball to the two-yard line of LSU. After a short rush by Glen Coffee, Wilson plunged through a pile of players to get his second rushing touchdown, and preserve Alabama's unblemished record. With the win, the Crimson Tide clinched the SEC West Division, and a spot in the 2008 SEC Championship Game, and improved Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 44–23–5.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/110808aaa.html Alabama vs LSU: Game Notes November 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 Mississippi State 2008 Mississippi State Bulldogs football team Alabama–Mississippi State football rivalry Mississippi State 0 7 0 0 #1 Alabama 5 7 10 10 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 6:47 p.m. Central 3:03 92,138 Partly cloudy, 54 F, Wind: 10 mph on from NW Ken Williamson Mike Patrick (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (color), Holly Rowe (sideline) ESPNSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111008aah.html Alabama hosts Mississippi State November 10, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama11.html#GAME.SUM Mississippi State vs Alabama: Scoring Summary November 15, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 A week after their overtime victory over LSU, Alabama returned home and defeated the Mississippi State Bulldogs 32–7.Arenas, special teams keep Crimson Tide rolling along https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283200333 https://web.archive.org/web/20160914235333/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283200333 dead September 14, 2016 Associated Press ESPN.com November 15, 2008 August 14, 2011 Alabama took an early 2–0 lead after a Blake McAdams punt was blocked by Kareem Jackson and recovered by State in their endzone for a safety on the Bulldogs' first offensive possession.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama11.html#GAME.PLY Mississippi State vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary November 15, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 After holding the Tide on the following series, State's Tyson Lee committed a fumble that was recovered by Brandon Fanney. The subsequent Alabama drive was capped with a 35-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal to give the Tide a 5–0 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Bulldogs responded early in the second quarter and took a 7–5 lead after Tyson Lee hit Jamayel Smith for a 31-yard touchdown reception. Alabama retook the lead and would not relinquish it again late in the second after a one-yard John Parker Wilson touchdown run. After holding the Bulldogs on their opening possession of the second half, the Tide extended their lead to 19–7 when Javier Arenas returned a punt 80-yards for a touchdown. Tiffin added a pair of field goals from 34 and 35 yards out respectively before Mark Ingram II scored the final points of the game on a one-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter and made the final score 32–7. In the game, Arenas broke both of Harry Gilmer's Alabama single game record for punt return yardage with 153 on six attempts, and the all-time record for punt return yardage in a career.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081117/NEWS/811179997 Arenas, special teams nightmare for 'Dogs Michael Southern The Tuscaloosa News November 17, 2008 August 14, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/111508aaa.html Mississippi State vs Alabama: Game Notes November 15, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 14, 2011 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Bulldogs to 72–18–3 (71–19–3 without NCAA vacations and forfeits). Auburn 2008 Auburn Tigers football team Iron Bowl Auburn 0 0 0 0 #1 Alabama 3 7 19 7 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 2:47 p.m. Central 3:10 92,138 Cloudy, 62 F; Wind 3 mph on from ENE Matt Austin Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBSSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/112408aaa.html Alabama hosts Auburn November 24, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama12.html#GAME.SUM Auburn vs Alabama: Scoring Summary November 29, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011 In the Iron Bowl, the Crimson Tide snapped a six-game losing streak against the Auburn Tigers with a 36–0 victory.Alabama shuts out Auburn for biggest Iron Bowl win in 46 years https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283340333 https://web.archive.org/web/20170815063213/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283340333 dead August 15, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com November 29, 2008 August 20, 2011 Alabama took a 3–0 lead at the end of the first quarter when Leigh Tiffin connected on a 37-yard field goal.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama12.html#GAME.PLY Auburn vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary November 29, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 20, 2011 Glen Coffee extended their lead to 10–0 on a 41-yard touchdown run.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081129/NEWS/811290255 Strong Coffee too much for Tigers Christopher Walsh The Tuscaloosa News November 29, 2008 August 20, 2011 At the end of the second quarter, Auburn's Morgan Hull appeared to connect on a 39-yard field goal. However, Alabama's Nick Saban called a time-out just before the play to negate the field goal in an attempt to ice the kicker. On the re-kick, Bama's Bobby Greenwood blocked the field goal attempt to preserve a 10–0 Crimson Tide lead at the half. In the third quarter, Alabama scored 19 points on a trio of touchdowns. The first came on a 39-yard Nikita Stover reception from John Parker Wilson, and after Tiffin's extra point was blocked by Mike McNeil, Bama led 16–0. Mark Ingram II scored the second and third touchdowns of the third on runs of one and fourteen yards. Up 29–0 going into the fourth quarter, Alabama pulled most of its starters late in the game.http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081201/NEWS/812019983 Saban says he wasn't 'running up the score' Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News November 29, 2008 August 20, 2011 As such, the final points of the evening came on a 34-yard touchdown pass from back-up quarterback Greg McElroy to Marquis Maze to make the final score 36–0. The victory was Alabama's first win against the Tigers since 2001 and the first all-time victory over Auburn at Bryant–Denny Stadium.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/112908aaa.html Auburn vs Alabama: Game Notes November 29, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 20, 2011 The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 39–33–1. Florida—SEC Championship Game 2008 Florida Gators football team 2008 SEC Championship Game SEC Championship Game #1 Alabama 10 0 10 0 #2 Florida 7 10 0 14 Atlanta, Georgia 4:13 p.m. Eastern 3:13 75,892 Indoors Thomas Ritter Verne Lundquist (play-by-play), Gary Danielson (color), Tracy Wolfson (sideline) CBSSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/113008aab.html 2008 SEC Championship Game: Alabama vs. Florida November 30, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama13.html#GAME.SUM Alabama vs Florida: Scoring Summary December 6, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202171648/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama13.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all In the 2008 edition of the SEC Championship Game, the Crimson Tide met the Florida Gators for the sixth time, and lost 31–20.Tebow's 3 TD strikes lead Gators' waltz past Tide https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283410057 https://web.archive.org/web/20170712155308/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=283410057 dead July 12, 2017 Associated Press ESPN.com December 6, 2008 August 27, 2011 Florida took a 7–0 lead midway through the first quarter when Tim Tebow threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Carl Moore.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama13.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs. Florida: Play-by-play Summary December 6, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202171648/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama13.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=2U0oAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4b4EAAAAIBAJ&dq=florida%20tebow%20championship-game&pg=4724%2C1822953 Zoned out: Tide defense corrals Tebow, but can't stop high-powered Gator offense in red zone Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News December 7, 2008 August 27, 2011 On the next possession, Alabama responded with a two-play, 82-yard drive to tie the game at 7–7. The drive included a 64-yard pass play from John Parker Wilson to Julio Jones and an 18-yard touchdown run by Glen Coffee. The Tide then took a 10–7 lead late in the quarter after Leigh Tiffin connected on a 30-yard field goal. The Gators tied the game at 10–10 in the second quarter after Jonathan Phillips connected on a 19-yard field goal, and then Tebow hit David Nelson for a five-yard touchdown reception and a 17–10 at the half. In the third, Alabama tied the game after Mark Ingram II scored on a two-yard touchdown run, and took a 20–17 lead into the fourth quarter after a 27-yard Tiffin field goal with only 00:08 remaining in the third. The Gators responded with a pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns to secure a 31–20 victory. The first came on a one-yard Jeffery Demps run and the second on a five-yard Tebow pass to Riley Cooper. The loss brought Alabama's all-time record against the Gators to 20–14 (21–14 without the NCAA vacation of the 2005 victory).http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/120608aac.html Alabama vs Florida: Game Notes December 6, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 Utah—Sugar Bowl 2008 Utah Utes football team 2009 Sugar Bowl Sugar Bowl #7 Utah 21 0 7 3 #4 Alabama 0 10 7 0 New Orleans, Louisiana 7:18 p.m. Central 3:26 71,872 Indoors Scott Novak Kenny Albert (play-by-play), Darryl Johnston (color), Charissa Thompson (sideline), Chris Myers (sideline) FOXSources:http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama14.html#GAME.SUM Florida vs Utah: Scoring Summary January 2, 2009 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 15, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202132830/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama14.html#GAME.SUM February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all After falling to the eventual national champion Florida Gators in the SEC Championship Game, the Crimson Tide were selected with an at-large bid to play in the 2009 Sugar Bowl against the Mountain West Conference champion Utah Utes.https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=2k0oAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4b4EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6254%2C4487665 Big Easy bound: Alabama headed to Sugar Bowl to face 12–0 Utah Tommy Deas The Tuscaloosa News December 8, 2008 August 27, 2011 Before the game, Alabama's All-American left tackle Andre Smith was suspended.Utah secures perfect season with Sugar Bowl win over Alabama https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=290020333 https://web.archive.org/web/20160917000816/http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=290020333 dead September 17, 2016 Associated Press ESPN.com January 2, 2009 August 27, 2011All-America tackle barred from Sugar Bowl https://www.espn.com/college-football/bowls08/news/story?id=3798417 Chris Low ESPN.com December 29, 2008 August 27, 2011 Utah took a commanding 21–0 lead in the first quarter and did not relinquish it for the remainder of the game. Utah scored first on a seven-yard Brent Casteel reception from Brian Johnson, second on a two-yard Matt Asiata run and third on an 18-yard Bradon Godfrey reception from Johnson.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama14.html#GAME.PLY Alabama vs. Utah: Play-by-play Summary January 2, 2009 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202132830/http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/stats/2008-2009/bama14.html#GAME.PLY February 2, 2012 dead mdy-all Alabama responded and cut the lead to 21–10 at the half after a 52-yard Leigh Tiffin field goal and a 73-yard Javier Arenas punt return for a touchdown. The Crimson Tide brought the score to 21–17 early in the third when John Parker Wilson threw a four-yard touchdown reception to Glen Coffee. However, Utah closed the game with ten unanswered points on a 28-yard David Reed touchdown reception from Johnson and a 28-yard Louie Sakoda field goal to secure their 31–17 victory. Personnel Coaching staff Prior to the 2008 season, Alabama made several changes to its 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 Name Position Year at Alabama Alma mater (year)Nick Saban Head coach 2nd Kent State (1973)Burton BurnsAssociate head coach, running backs2ndNebraska (1976)Joe Pendry Assistant head coach, head offensive coach, offensive line2ndWest Virginia (1969)Kirby SmartDefense Coordinator, secondary2ndGeorgia (1999)Jim McElwainOffensive coordinator, quarterbacks1stEastern Washington (1984) Kevin SteeleAssociate head coach, head defensive coach, inside linebackers2ndTennessee (1981)Curt CignettiWide receivers, recruiting coordinator2ndWest Virginia (1983)Bobby WilliamsTight ends, special teams1stPurdue (1982)Bo Davis Defensive line 2nd LSU (1993)Lance ThompsonOutside linebackers2ndThe Citadel (1987) Scott Cochran Strength and conditioning 2nd LSU (2001) 2008 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide, p. 2 Depth chart Single Set Back 3-4 No Yes No John Parker Wilson Greg McElroy Glen Coffee Mark Ingram II Mike McCoy Darius Hanks Julio Jones Earl Alexander Marquis Maze Nikita Stover Nick Walker Travis McCall Andre Smith Tyler Love Mike Johnson Brian Motley Antoine Caldwell Evan Cardwell Marlon Davis David Ross Drew Davis John Michael Boswell Corey Reamer Jerrell Harris OLB Rolando McClain Prince Hall ILB Dont'a Hightower Chris Jordan ILB Brandon Fanney Eryk Anders OLB Rashad Johnson Ali Sharrief Justin Woodall Mark Barron Javier Arenas Marquis Johnson Kareem Jackson Chris Rogers Bobby Greenwood Lorenzo Washington Terrence Cody Josh Chapman Brandon Deaderick Luther Davis RB Roy Upchurch TE Brad Smelley 100 100 No Recruiting class Alabama's recruiting class was highlighted by seven players from the "ESPN 150": No. 2 Julio Jones (WR); No. 19 Burton Scott (ATH); No. 30 Courtney Upshaw (DE); No. 33 Tyler Love (OT); No. 99 Jerrell Harris (LB); No. 109 Mark Ingram II (RB); and No. 144 Chris Jackson (ATH).http://espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/top150prospects/_/class/2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20100904100826/http://espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/top150prospects/_/class/2008 dead September 4, 2010 ESPNU 150 Class of 2008 ESPN.com August 13, 2011 Alabama signed the No. 1 recruiting class according to both Rivals and Scout. yes 2008 Mark Barron LB Mobile, AL St. Paul's Episcopal School 6 2 210 4.50 08/24/07 5 4 4 80 Undra Billingsley DE Birmingham, AL Woodlawn High School 6 3 265 – 03/24/2007 3 3 3 74 Devonta Bolton LB Norcross, GA Norcross High School 6 3 220 – 08/04/2007 4 4 4 80 John Michael Boswell OL Northport, AL Tuscaloosa County High School 6 6 300 – 04/21/2007 3 4 3 79 Terrence Cody DT Perkinston, MS Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College 6 5 385 5.60 11/29/2007 4 3 3 NR Marcell Dareus DT Birmingham, AL Huffman High School 6 4 275 4.95 02/06/2008 4 3 4 77 Robby Green DB River Ridge, LA John Curtis Christian High School 6 0 170 4.50 12/11/2007 4 4 4 80 Glenn Harbin DE Mobile, AL McGill-Toolen Catholic High School 6 6 252 4.80 01/30/2008 3 4 3 77 Jerrell Harris LB Gadsden, AL Gadsden City High School 6 3 215 4.50 02/06/2008 4 4 4 81 Dont'a Hightower DE Lewisburg, TN Marshall County High School 6 2 245 4.70 11/14/2007 4 4 4 79 Destin Hood WR Mobile, AL St. Paul's Episcopal School 6 2 182 4.50 08/06/2007 3 4 3 80 Mark Ingram II RB Flint, MI Flint Southwestern Academy 5 10 202 4.45 02/05/2008 3 4 4 81 Chris Jackson WR McDonough, GA Henry County High School 6 1 190 – 12/18/2007 4 3 4 80 Star Jackson QB Lake Worth, FL Lake Worth Community High School 6 3 205 4.50 09/04/2007 4 4 4 79 Barrett Jones OT Cordova, TN Evangelical Christian School 6 5 270 – 11/06/2007 4 4 4 78 Julio Jones WR Foley, AL Foley High School 6 4 212 4.50 02/06/2008 5 5 5 95 Chris Jordan RB Brentwood, TN Brentwood Academy 6 2 208 4.50 12/09/2007 4 4 4 80 Alonzo Lawrence CB Lucedale, MS George County High School 6 0 180 4.45 02/01/2008 4 4 4 80 Robert Lester S Foley, AL Foley High School 6 2 205 4.58 10/12/2007 3 4 3 77 Brandon Lewis DE Pleasant Grove, AL Pleasant Grove High School 6 3 260 – 03/05/2007 3 4 3 79 Tyler Love OT Mountain Brook, AL Mountain Brook High School 6 8 285 – 07/27/2007 5 5 5 83 Ivan Matchett RB Mobile, AL St. Paul's Episcopal School 5 10 205 4.60 03/27/2007 3 3 3 79 Kerry Murphy DT Chatham, VA Hargrave Military Academy 6 4 300 – 01/13/2006 4 4 4 81 Wesley Neighbors S Huntsville, AL Huntsville High School 6 1 190 – 04/02/2007 3 2 3 78 Jermaine Preyear RB Mobile, AL W.P. Davidson High School 5 11 195 – 03/02/2007 3 3 3 77 Melvin Ray WR Tallahassee, FL North Florida Christian High School 6 3 202 4.55 07/28/2007 4 4 4 80 B. J. Scott CB Prichard, AL Vigor High School 5 10 190 4.40 07/30/2007 4 5 5 84 Brad Smelley WR Tuscaloosa, AL American Christian Academy 6 3 215 – 05/06/2007 2 3 3 77 Corey Smith K Bunker Hill, WV Musselman High School 6 0 190 – 03/24/2007 2 2 3 75 Damion Square LB Houston, TX Yates High School 6 3 268 4.70 08/11/2007 4 3 4 79 Courtney Upshaw DE Eufaula, AL Eufaula High School 6 3 240 – 06/07/2007 4 4 4 83 Michael Williams DE Reform, AL Pickens County High School 6 6 270 4.70 02/16/2007 4 4 4 79 yes 2008 Alabama Signee List 2008 Scout.com Football Recruiting: Alabama 2008 Player Signees- Alabama alabama 73 333 1 1 3 August 13, 2011 yes Statistics On the defensive side of the ball, of the 119 FBS teams, the Crimson Tide was ranked near the top of all major defensive categories nationally and in conference. Nationally, they ranked 2nd in rushing defense (74.14 yards per game), tied for 3rd in total defense (263.50 yards per game), 7th in scoring defense (14.29 points per game) and 30th in passing defense (189.36 yards per game).2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Week 20 http://web1.ncaa.org/football/exec/rankingSummary?org=8&year=2008&week=20 NCAA.org July 8, 2013 In conference, they ranked 1st in rushing and total defense, 2nd in scoring defense and 7th in passing defense. Individually, Rolando McClain led the team with 95 total tackles, 47 of which were assisted, and 48 solo tackles.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008tackles.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 McClain was also tied for 12th in conference and 1st on the team with 12 tackles for loss.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles for loss http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008tacklesloss.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 Bobby Greenwood was 17th in conference and 1st on the team with 5 quarterback sacks.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Sacks http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008sacks.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 Rashad Johnson was tied for 37th nationally, 6th in conference and 1st on the team with 5 of Alabama's 15 total interceptions of the season.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Interceptions http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008int.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 On offense, of the 119 FBS teams, Alabama ranked 30th in rushing offense (184.64 yards per game), 35th in scoring offense (30.14 points per game), 63rd in total offense (355.79 yards per game) and 97th in passing offense (171.14 yards per game). In conference, they ranked 3rd in rushing offense, 5th in scoring offense, 6th in total offense and 9th in passing offense. John Parker Wilson led the team in passing offense and completed 187 of 323 passes for 2,273 passing yards and 10 touchdowns.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Passing http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008pass.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 Julio Jones led the team with 58 receptions for 924 yards and 4 touchdown receptions.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Receiving http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008recv.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 Glen Coffee led the team with 233 rushing attempts for 1,383 yards and Mark Ingram II led the team with 12 touchdown runs.2008 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Rushing http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2008/Internet/ranking_summary/2008000000008rush.html NCAA.org July 8, 2013 Awards Conference Following the loss in the SEC Championship Game, the conference named its award winners. Nick Saban was named SEC Coach of the Year and Julio Jones was named SEC Freshman of the Year.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120808aab.html 9 Crimson Tide players selected to Associated Press All-SEC Team December 8, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 Andre Smith, Rashad Johnson, Antoine Caldwell, Glen Coffee, Terrence Cody and Rolando McClain were named to the AP All-SEC First Team. Mike Johnson, Julio Jones and Javier Arenas were named to the AP All-SEC Second Team. Five players were named to the Coaches' All-SEC First Team, including Caldwell, Cody, Rashad Johnson, McClain and Andre Smith.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120908aab.html 9 Tide players named to Coaches All-SEC Team December 9, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 Arenas (as both a cornerback and kick returner), Coffee, Mike Johnson and Jones were named to the Coaches' All-SEC Second Team. Julio Jones, Mark Ingram II, Dont'a Hightower and John Michael Boswell were named to the 2008 Freshman All-SEC Team.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/121108aab.html 4 Tide players named to Freshman All-SEC squad December 11, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 National After the season, a number of Alabama players were named as national award winners and finalists. Andre Smith became Alabama's second Outland Trophy winner as the best interior lineman by the Football Writers Association of America.https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3U0oAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4b4EAAAAIBAJ&pg=5815%2C5562637 Smith wins Outland Trophy, Saban named Coach of the Year The Tuscaloosa News Christopher Walsh December 12, 2008 August 27, 2011 Smith was also a finalist for the Lombardi Award and Antoine Caldwell was a finalist for the Rimington Trophy. Nick Saban captured several coach of the year awards that included: the AP Coach of the Year,Saban named AP's top coach https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3789726 Associated Press ESPN.com December 23, 2010 August 27, 2011 the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year,http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/robinson/winners.html All-time Eddie Robinson Award Winners Football Writers Association of America August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110724081557/http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/robinson/winners.html 24 July 2011 live the Home Depot Coach of the Year,http://blog.al.com/rapsheet/2008/12/nick_saban_named_home_depot_co.html Nick Saban named Home Depot Coach of the Year Ian Rapoport al.com December 9, 2008 January 21, 2011 the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award,http://www.coachoftheyear.com/Coaches-PreviousWinners.aspx#fbid=Nfw_1Uv2hdy Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year: Previous Winners (2008) Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110722141848/http://www.coachoftheyear.com/Coaches-PreviousWinners.aspx#fbid=Nfw_1Uv2hdy 22 July 2011 dead dmy-all the Sporting News College Football Coach of the Yearhttp://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2008-12-17/tides-saban-sns-national-coach-year Tide's Saban is SN's National Coach of the Year SportingNews.com August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20150223023336/http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2008-12-17/tides-saban-sns-national-coach-year February 23, 2015 dead mdy-all and the Walter Camp Coach of the Year.http://waltercamp.org/index.php/news/alabamas_nick_saban_named_walter_camp_2008_coach_of_the_year/ Alabama's Nick Saban Named Walter Camp 2008 Coach of the Year Walter Camp Football Foundation December 28, 2008 August 27, 2011 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110728171440/http://waltercamp.org/index.php/news/alabamas_nick_saban_named_walter_camp_2008_coach_of_the_year/ July 28, 2011 In addition to the individual awards, several players were also named to various national All-American Teams. Andre Smith, Antoine Caldwell and Terrence Cody were named to the AP All-American First Team; Rashad Johnson was named to the AP All-American Second Team; and Rolando McClain was named to the AP All-American Third Team.http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/121608aab.html Alabama secures five Associated Press All-America Honors December 16, 2008 RollTide.com University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics August 27, 2011 Andre Smith was named to the Walter Camp All-American First Team.2008 Walter Camp All-America Team http://waltercamp.org/index.php/teams_and_awards/ Walter Camp Foundation August 27, 2011 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090330065940/http://waltercamp.org/index.php/teams_and_awards March 30, 2009 Andre Smith, Caldwell, Cody and Rashad Johnson were named to the AFCA All-America Team.Four Tide players named AFCA All-Americans http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081204/NEWS/812040288/-1/NEWS06?Title=Four_Tide_players_named_AFCA_All_Americans The Tuscaloosa News December 4, 2008 August 27, 2011 After the season In the week following the Sugar Bowl loss, several changes were made to the Alabama coaching staff. Alabama lost their defensive head coach, Kevin Steele, on January 10, 2009, when he was hired as defensive coordinator for Clemson, and their linebacker coach Lance Thompson on January 16, when he was hired as linebacker coach by Tennessee.Clemson hires Alabama assistant coach Kevin Steele as defensive coordinator http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/mobileregister/index.ssf?/base/sports/1231582531226910.xml&coll=3 Gentry Estes Press-Register Mobile, AL January 10, 2009 August 27, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20121004135747/http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/mobileregister/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fsports%2F1231582531226910.xml&coll=3 October 4, 2012 dead mdy-all UT hires Alabama linebackers coach Thompson http://www.govolsxtra.com/news/2009/jan/15/report-ut-hires-tides-thompson/ Drew Edwards Knoxville News Sentinel January 15, 2009 August 27, 2011 The following week, Saban named Sal Sunseri from the NFL's Carolina Panthers as his team's new assistant head and linebacker coach, and James Willis from Auburn as the new associate head and linebacker coach.Alabama lures Auburn's James Willis http://www2.dothaneagle.com/m/sports/2009/jan/22/alabama_lures_auburns_james_willis-ar-196918/ https://archive.today/20110710145529/http://www2.dothaneagle.com/m/sports/2009/jan/22/alabama_lures_auburns_james_willis-ar-196918/ dead July 10, 2011 Ken Rogers Dothan Eagle January 22, 2009 August 27, 2011 As part of the A-Day celebrations on April 18, the 2008 team captains John Parker Wilson, Rashad Johnson and Antoine Caldwell were honored at the Walk of Fame ceremony at the base of Denny Chimes.A-Day general information http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20090417/NEWS/904179953 The Tuscaloosa News April 17, 2009 August 27, 2011 NFL draft In the spring that followed the 2008 season, Alabama had four players selected in the 2009 NFL draft.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 August 27, 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 August 27, 2011 In the years that followed, an additional 22 players from the 2008 squad were drafted into the NFL.National Football League http://www.nfl.com/draft/history/fulldraft?abbr=A&collegeName=Alabama&abbrFlag=0&type=school Draft History by School–Alabama July 8, 2013 July 15, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140715084011/http://www.nfl.com/draft/history/fulldraft?abbr=A&collegeName=Alabama&abbrFlag=0&type=school dead Year Round Pick Overall Player name Position NFL team2009 1 6 6 Andre Smith Andre Smith (offensive tackle) Offensive tackle Cincinnati Bengals 3 10 74 Glen Coffee Running back San Francisco 49ers 3 13 77 Antoine Caldwell Center Houston Texans 3 31 95 Rashad Johnson Defensive back Arizona Cardinals2010 1 8 8 Rolando McClain Linebacker Oakland Raiders 1 20 20 Kareem Jackson Cornerback Houston Texans 2 18 50 Javier Arenas Javier Arenas (American football) Defensive back Kansas City Chiefs 2 25 57 Terrence Cody Defensive end Baltimore Ravens 3 34 98 Mike Johnson Mike Johnson (offensive lineman) Offensive guard Atlanta Falcons 7 4 211 Marquis Johnson Defensive back St. Louis Rams 7 40 247 Brandon Deaderick Defensive end New England Patriots2011 1 3 3 Marcell Dareus Defensive tackle Buffalo Bills 1 6 6 Julio Jones Wide receiver Atlanta Falcons 1 28 28 Mark Ingram II Running back New Orleans Saints 7 5 208 Greg McElroy Quarterback New York Jets2012 1 7 7 Mark Barron Safety Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1 25 25 Dont'a Hightower Linebacker New England Patriots 2 3 35 Courtney Upshaw Linebacker Baltimore Ravens 5 1 136 Josh Chapman Defensive tackle Indianapolis Colts 7 40 247 Brad Smelley Tight end Cleveland Browns2013 4 16 113 Barrett Jones Center St. Louis Rams 7 5 211 Michael Williams Michael Williams (offensive lineman) Tight end Detroit Lions References General 2008 University of Alabama Football Recruiting and Media Guide 2008 University of Alabama Athletics Media Relations Office Tuscaloosa, Alabama http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/alab/graphics/2008-fball-guide.pdf August 14, 2011 May 23, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110523062615/http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/alab/graphics/2008-fball-guide.pdf dead Specific University of Alabama football team clinches No. 1 spot in AP poll Alabama Category:Alabama Crimson Tide football seasons Alabama Crimson Tide football