Blogger Q&A's: Bama, Part 2

Thought we were done with Alabama? WRONG! I also interviewed Tide Druid from, well, The Tide Druid.

1. Is John Parker Wilson ready to take the next step this year?

I think he is ready, he has to be. If this team is going to be successful, the offense needs to be very productive since the defense will be up and down as the season goes along. He's able to scramble enough to make a play and can throw the deep ball well enough. My biggest concern is his ability to look off passes. In the past, there have been a few defenders who were able to read him well enough to pull off an interception. Hopefully, he's been able to work on that and improve.



2. Do you like the hire of Major Applewhite as offensive coordinator? Why or why not?

I do like the hiring of Major. His time at Rice was a major accomplishment in only 1 year if you compare it to their offensive production for the year before. They did struggle at times, but they were able to do some impressive things. Also, Applewhite is still a recognizable player to recruits. That will help out with recruiting for a few years. After that, Coach Applewhite's offense will have to be more recognizable.



3. What about the LB position? Only Prince Hall comes back [EDIT: he was recently suspended], what's your level of confidence in the new-look squad?

I started to feel better after reading about Rolando McClain. He is a freshman from Decatur, Alabama that has played his way into a starting spot. In fact, he's taking over Hall's position as the LB in charge on defense. But, now I'm left wondering what happened to Prince Hall? I for one do not know. I imagine we'll have a few up and down moments, but I still feel better after hearing about McClain.



4. What's the better unit: WR or O-line?

Right now I would have to go with the Wide Receivers. Not because I feel that you have to give the WRs the nod until the O-line actually proves that they have improved from the last 2 years. I think the O-line certainly can do well, but the WRs have more experience playing at a higher level.



5. Do you have faith that Nick Saban will lead Alabama to the promised land?

I think he most certainly can. His work ethic seems to have already had a positive effect on the players. One of Alabama's biggest problems during the Shula era was finishing in the 4th qrt. Saban seems to be addressing this issue head on, causing the players to work harder than they ever have before. Sure, it will take a few years. I think if Alabama is able to win an SEC title and at least compete for a national title, you'll see Tide fans happier than they are now.