Eli Gold, the Voice of the Alabama Crimson Tide, is back in the saddle when Texas visits No. 3 Alabama on Saturday night.

Gold, who missed all of last season due to cancer, got back in the swing of things last week during the Tide’s win over Middle Tennessee. On Saturday, however, he was the focus of a “College GameDay” feature.

“This job is like holding a rare piece of crystal,” Gold said. “I always knew it. It’s now been re-enforced.”

Since 1988, Gold has called Alabama games. In fact, only once had he missed a game in the 34 years the mic was on.

“There’s tradition in any program, and Eli’s been a part of that tradition for a long time,” Alabama coach Nick Saban said. “When people listen, they expect to hear Eli Gold.”

In March 2022, Gold woke from bed to find he didn’t have use of his legs. He couldn’t walk. He couldn’t get out of bed. In the process of his recovery, he lost 140 pounds.

In the end, ESPN proclaims, he is not only the Voice of the Crimson Tide, he is the Voice of Victory.

“Football is upon us and that’s the best medicine,” Gold said.

Touchdown, Gold!

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.