Saban talks left tackle, Keenan and eclipse before Alabama-Arkansas game
Alabama football will be looking to remain perfect in SEC play when it faces Arkansas on Saturday. The Crimson Tide currently sits at 5-1 on the season, 3-0 in conference play, with the SEC wins coming against Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Texas A&M.
On Wednesday, Alabama head coach Nick Saban met with local media for his final press conference ahead of the Arkansas matchup. Here are the highlights from what Saban said.
— Saban asks whether media members are ready for a lecture. Speaks about the importance of “nothing.” Says people are entitled to nothing. Says “nothing is acceptable” but the best, and that’s what players need to stay focused on. Says Crimson Tide can’t accept anything but its best.
— Saban asked if he will prepare players for distraction of eclipse during game. Saban jokes that he’ll text it to players so they’ll be sure to pay attention.
— Says Tim Keenan’s emergence has allowed Jaheim Oatis further outside on the defensive line. Says Keenan has worked his way up into a productive player.
— Asked how the left tackle rotation has benefitted Kadyn Proctor and Elijah Pritchett. Says he can’t answer that, both players have had hiccups, both have played well enough to get consideration at that spot.
— Saban asked about “tush-push” plays and whether he things there’s a place for them in college. Says it doesn’t matter from a competitive standpoint, but thinks there’s a conversation to be had about player safety on those plays.
— Speaks about getting players ready to be in different positions, like if Malachi Moore cannot play. Says its hard to build for players, but they’re trying to get players the most reps possible in a short period of time. Says there’s usually only a few players who can play multiple positions, and most players play best when they’re confident at one position.
More: Arkansas coach Sam Pittman breaks down what makes Alabama football’s defense great