Good news: He is back …………..
The Alabama Crimson Tide has truly established themselves over the last several weeks, following a difficult non-conference campaign that left many fans wanting more from this year’s team. Due in major part to the growth of several players in important positions, Nate Oats’ squad is presently leading the SEC standings after opening conference play with a 4-0 record. Mo Dioubate has come into his own and has been providing the Tide with excellent minutes in both of those areas; Rylan Griffen appears to be playing more assertively and confidently on the offensive end; Grant Nelson has dramatically increased his defensive performance and willingness to fight on the glass; and the team as a whole just seems to be getting better.
Looks like the Tide might be hitting its stride just right. But we’re about to find out exactly how accurate that is, as Alabama plays the #6 Tennessee Volunteers (13-4, 3-1 SEC; NET: 6; Kenpom: 6) in Knoxville, TN today. It’s true that Rick Barnes is currently in his eighth season at Rocky Top, and as of right now, we are fully aware of what to anticipate from the Vols while they are led by him. Their destiny is nearly always determined by their ability to score enough points on offense, and they are expected to be a strong, seasoned team that plays elite-level defense. Regretfully, I must tell you that this Tennessee squad is possibly his best one ever
Today’s test will be the last one for the Tide. It will be official when to start accepting that Alabama may win this game and go on to win the SEC regular season championship twice.
