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Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

James Ogletree | @jameslogletree, Sports Editor

All content by James Ogletree
CW/ Hannah Saad

Gymnasts reminisce before last home meet

James Ogletree, Sports Writer February 28, 2019
More than three years and 88 total home routines after making their debuts for Alabama gymnastics in early 2016, the team’s three seniors will compete in Coleman Coliseum for the final time on Friday night against Auburn.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Gymnastics ready to make potential a reality

James Ogletree, Sports Writer February 21, 2019
Not even “Dixieland Delight” could salvage a disappointing night for Alabama gymnastics last Friday.
Courtesy of UA Athletics

Men’s golf faces new challenges entering spring

James Ogletree, Sports Writer February 18, 2019
No one around the Alabama men’s golf team saw it coming. Alabama’s No. 1 player and the former No. 1 player in college golf, Davis Riley, elected to turn professional after the fall season.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Men’s basketball stagnant in loss to Florida

James Ogletree, Staff Writer February 16, 2019
Alabama men’s basketball dropped a winnable home game against Florida (14-11 overall, 6-6 SEC) on Saturday afternoon, falling behind early and never getting back within seven points in a 71-53 loss.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Gymnastics upbeat despite loss to Florida in Power of Pink meet

James Ogletree, Staff Writer February 16, 2019
Alabama gymnastics lost its annual Power of Pink meet Friday night, scoring a 196.475 to fall short of the Gators’ 197.325 total. The score was the Crimson Tide’s lowest since its second meet of the season on Jan. 11, but the team and coach Dana Duckworth remained in good spirits afterward.
By Hannah Saad

Gymnastics’ Power of Pink meet honors those affected by breast cancer

James Ogletree, Staff Writer February 14, 2019
At the start of every gymnastics meet at Coleman Coliseum, each Alabama gymnast is introduced to the home crowd in recognition of her individual accomplishments, contributions to the team and perseverance through adversity. Well, every meet except one. On Friday night, as part of the team’s 15th annual Power of Pink meet, each gymnast will be flanked by one or two breast cancer survivors, who will be recognized for their courage in a fight of far greater magnitude.
Alabama gymnastics secures road win over Arkansas

Alabama gymnastics secures road win over Arkansas

James Ogletree, Staff Writer February 9, 2019
At least one gymnast scored a 9.9 or better in each event for Alabama: Graber on vault and again on the balance beam (9.9), junior Shea Mahoney on the floor exercise (9.9) and freshman Emily Gaskins on bars (9.925, her best score yet in any event). All four scores won their respective events.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Settling Down: gymnasts find their places in rotation

James Ogletree, Sports Writer February 7, 2019
As Alabama gymnastics presses deeper into its schedule, the early-season shuffling of lineups has mostly stopped, and gymnasts are more assured of when they will and will not be competing.
Courtesy of UA Athletics

Women’s golf adjusting to life without two All-Americans

James Ogletree, Sports Writer February 4, 2019
Just four months ago, the Alabama women’s golf team had just set the NCAA scoring record, it included three of the top five amateur players in the world and it appeared to be on the fast track to avenging its narrow loss in last year’s national championship match.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Gymnastics tops No. 16 Missouri on the road

James Ogletree, Staff Writer February 2, 2019
The score was the eighth-ranked Crimson Tide’s third straight score just below 197, following scores of 196.900 at Georgia and 196.850 vs. LSU.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Desch returns to freshman year floor routine

James Ogletree, Sports Writer January 31, 2019
More than 13,000 fans packed into Coleman Coliseum last Friday to watch Alabama gymnastics host LSU – the largest gymnastics crowd at any school so far this season.
Gymnasts set career highs in loss to LSU

Gymnasts set career highs in loss to LSU

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 25, 2019
Alabama gymnastics set season highs on the uneven bars and balance beam Friday night in a 197.450-196.850 loss to No. 5 LSU, continuing a steady improvement from its season opener to its first home conference meet and fourth overall meet of the year.
By Hannah Saad

Battle-tested gymnastics hosts LSU in another premier SEC meet

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 25, 2019
Emily Gaskins didn’t cry when she saw her team’s score go up on the board. But she was close. Alabama gymnastics, then ranked No. 17, had gone on the road last Friday and beaten longtime rival Georgia, ranked 10th, by the literal slimmest of margins. The 196.900-to-196.875 victory brought tears to the eyes of several Crimson Tide gymnasts, but not Gaskins, who avoided the eyes of roommates and fellow freshmen Jensie Givens and Griffin James.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Gymnastics hits the road to renew rivalry rich with tradition

James Ogletree, Sports Writer January 17, 2019
For over 30 years, former coach Sarah Patterson’s Crimson Tide and Suzanne Yoculan’s Gym Dogs were frequently ranked among the top teams in the country. They combined for 16 national championships and 24 SEC titles from 1986 to 2014.
By Hannah Saad

Late rally comes up short as gymnastics falls to Denver

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 12, 2019
Alabama gymnastics narrowly lost a quad meet on Friday night, finishing with a score of 196.175 to defeat Michigan and Bowling Green State, but falling one-tenth of a point behind Denver. The Crimson Tide trailed by one tenth through three of four events. It scored the same on the floor exercise as Denver scored on the uneven bars (49.275) despite a 9.875 from senior Abby Armbrecht and 9.9s from sophomore Lexi Graber and freshman Shallon Olsen, which were the team’s highest individual scores so far this season.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Senior class goes down as one of history’s best

James Ogletree, Sports Writer January 10, 2019
Alabama’s seniors accomplished a lot in their collegiate careers — arguably as much as any senior class in history.
Alabama’s defense outmatched in title game loss

Alabama’s defense outmatched in title game loss

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 8, 2019
On Monday night, it all came crashing down in the blink of an eye and the flash of some flowing golden hair. For the second time in three years a transcendent Clemson quarterback torched the Crimson Tide in the national title game, as true freshman Trevor Lawrence dazzled with brilliant throw after brilliant throw en route to a 44-16 victory, Alabama’s largest loss under Saban.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama blown out in College Football Playoff National Championship

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree January 7, 2019
Alabama’s once-transcendent offense and once-reliable defense both failed to show up to Monday night’s College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Five drives inside Clemson’s 22-yard line netted one touchdown and a field goal, and the defense’s penalties and coverage errors doomed a chance at coach Nick Saban’s seventh national championship.
By Grant Nicholls

National championship may test Alabama’s ability to close

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 6, 2019

Over coach Nick Saban’s 12 seasons at Alabama, some of his teams’ most distinctive features – like huge, space-eating defensive tackles and an offense based on a smashmouth running game – have...

By Hannah Saad

Crimson Tide prepares to battle college football’s best defensive line

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 6, 2019
“They’re game-plan wreckers,” senior running back Damien Harris said. “You watch them on tape and they have so many disruptive plays. They cause so much havoc for the offenses they’re playing. Their front seven is extremely physical, extremely talented.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama iron man Ross Pierschbacher set to tie FBS record

James Ogletree, Staff Writer January 5, 2019
Only one college football player in the history of the Football Bowl Subdivision, the sport’s highest level, has done what Alabama senior center Ross Pierschbacher could accomplish in the national championship game on Monday night.
By Grant Nicholls

Alabama defense stout early, then holds on for Orange Bowl win

James Ogletree, Staff Writer December 30, 2018

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- No. 1 Alabama’s defense opened Saturday’s Orange Bowl against Oklahoma with perhaps its best quarter of the season, but the Sooners’ top-ranked offense would not be held at...

By Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama to play in College Football National Championship

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree December 29, 2018
No. 1 Alabama’s offense did what it does best: score early and often in the first quarter. It put up 21 points in the first 15 minutes of the game, digging a hole to large for the Heisman Trophy winner and his team to climb out of, leading to a 45-34 win in the Orange Bowl.
By Hannah Saad

Deionte Thompson waits his turn, becomes leader in secondary

James Ogletree, Staff Writer December 29, 2018
After sitting for three years behind future NFL safeties like Eddie Jackson, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Ronnie Harrison, redshirt junior Deionte Thompson got his chance in 2018. Undaunted by the prospect of waiting several years to see significant playing time, Thompson’s patience has paid off, as he has become one of the premier players for the top-ranked Crimson Tide.
By Grant Nicholls

Joe Moore Award finalists square off in Orange Bowl

James Ogletree and Cody Estremera December 29, 2018

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.— Offensive linemen hardly are praised. Usually during a game, the only time a lineman’s name is called is when he commits a penalty or gets beat. That changes each December when...

By Hannah Saad

Williams takes mathematical approach to left tackle

James Ogletree, Staff Writer December 28, 2018
They say a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, but a faceful of a Georgia linebacker’s fingers helped Alabama’s Jonah Williams tap into a rarely-seen side of the All-American left tackle. Two plays after the linebacker’s 15-yard penalty for illegal hands to the face, Williams, still fuming, escorted a different Bulldogs linebacker 15 yards downfield, landed on him, and wildly pumped his fists as running back Josh Jacobs nearly scored.
By Hannah Saad

Jaylen Waddle’s energy, coachability lead to standout season

James Ogletree, Staff Writer December 27, 2018
Since he signed with Alabama in February, people have been trying to find a way to describe Jaylen Waddle, junior defensive back Shyheim Carter described him in one short phrase at Orange Bowl Media Day on Thursday. “He’s special,” Carter said. “He’s special.”
By Grant Nicholls

Jalen Hurts leads fourth quarter comeback, claiming 27th SEC Championship

James Ogletree, Staff Writer December 1, 2018
Alabama’s dream of a second straight national championship-winning season remains alive. The dream of becoming the first college football team in 121 years to play 15 games and win them all is still as possible as ever. Every record, every distinction – all one step closer after a 35-28 Alabama win over Georgia in the SEC Championship.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama wins SEC Championship in comeback win

James Ogletree and Cody Estremera December 1, 2018
No. 1 Alabama faced its biggest adversity of the season. Trailing by seven, Jalen Hurts entered the game for an injured Tua Tagovailoa. Hurts led two drives and scored two touchdowns to give the Crimson Tide the SEC Championship and an undefeated season.
By Grant Nicholls

Keaton Anderson may have expanded role against Georgia

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 30, 2018
Senior Jared Mayden, who is typically one of Alabama’s two safeties when it shifts into its dime defense (six defensive backs), was ejected from last Saturday’s Iron Bowl for targeting. Since the foul occurred in the second half, Mayden also must sit out the first half against Georgia. Enter Anderson, who despite limited publicity has received four Player of the Week awards from Alabama’s coaches over the last two seasons (three on special teams and one on defense). That’s tied with Isaiah Buggs’ total and more than Raekwon Davis’. He was also a three-time Special Teams Player of the Week in 2016.
By Hannah Saad

Tagovailoa sets school record in Iron Bowl win

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 24, 2018
One day after his chief competitor for the Heisman Trophy accumulated nearly 500 yards of offense and four total touchdowns, Tua Tagovailoa did him one better. In three quarters plus three plays of action in the 83rd Iron Bowl, the sophomore signal-caller threw for 324 yards and six total touchdowns – a new school record – en route to a 52-21 victory over Auburn.
By Hannah Saad

Tua Tagovailoa’s strong second half helps Alabama win Iron Bowl

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree November 24, 2018
In his first Iron Bowl, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa led Alabama to a 52-21 win against Auburn. He threw for five touchdowns, which ties the single-season mark in Alabama history, alongside 324 yards. He also ran for a score.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Damien Harris checks off senior season goals

James Ogletree, Sports Writer November 19, 2018
As the Bryant-Denny Stadium crowd watched the athletic trainers surround a player on Saturday against The Citadel and realized who was still down on the sideline, it fell the most silent it had been all season.
By Hannah Saad

Offense rebounds after shaky first half

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 17, 2018
Years from now, Alabama’s 50-17 home win over The Citadel may be remembered as a second coming of the infamous “Tin Horn” game in which Alabama again struggled to defend the triple option. The offense, however, had first-half travails of its own that will likely be overshadowed by The Citadel’s running-game prowess.
CW/ Grant Nicholls

Jeudy learns from former Heisman winner

James Ogletree, Sports Writer November 15, 2018
The connection between Tua Tagovailoa and Jerry Jeudy has elicited countless oohs and ahhs this season, as the former has added to his Heisman Trophy campaign and the latter has remained near the top of the national rankings in yards per catch.
By Grant Nicholls

Alabama’s defense harasses Fitzgerald in shutout win

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 10, 2018
Alabama’s defense continued to look more like a typical Alabama defense on Saturday, shutting out No. 16 Mississippi State 24-0 at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Tide shut out SEC opponents in back-to-back weeks for the first time in 38 years and shut out back-to-back AP-ranked teams for the first time in school history.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama shuts out Mississippi State

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree November 10, 2018
No. 1 Alabama continued it dominance against its schedule as it defeated No. 16 Mississippi State 24-0. Its offense was held in check finishing with 304 yards, which is its lowest of the season by 212.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Defense hitting its stride after statement win

James Ogletree, Staff Reporter November 8, 2018
The focus so far this season has been on Tua Tagovailoa and Alabama’s offense, but the Crimson Tide's defense demanded its own share of the spotlight with a shutout victory over then-No. 3 LSU last week.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama ranked No. 1 in second CFP Poll

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 6, 2018
Alabama (9-0) was ranked No. 1 in the College Football Playoff rankings for the second consecutive week when they were released on Tuesday night.
By Hannah Saad

Crimson Tide offense steamrolls No. 3 LSU in Death Valley

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 3, 2018

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana– It took two drives instead of one, but No. 3 LSU's defense was still no match fro No. 1 Alabama's offense in the 29-0 win, the largest victory by either side of the...

By Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama wins top-3 matchup

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree November 3, 2018
No. 1 Alabama steamrolled No. 3 LSU 29-0 for its ninth win of the season. It was the highest margin of victory on either side since the Crimson Tide defeated the Tigers 31-0 in 2002.
Courtesy of Alabama Athletics

Ben Fuller aims to break into starting lineup

James Ogletree, Staff Writer November 1, 2018
As Ben Fuller’s golf ball rolled over the edge of the hole and fell in, the buildup from a year of frustrations, disappointments and lonely weekends melted away into relief.  The Alabama sophomore had birdied the third hole of a playoff to clinch a spot in the Crimson Tide’s starting lineup for the first time. While his good friends and fellow sophomores Wilson Furr and Davis Shore started eight and 11 of the team’s 12 tournaments last year, Fuller remained in Tuscaloosa for all 12. 
By Hannah Saad

Football ranked No. 1 in first week of CFP Poll

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 30, 2018
Alabama ranked No. 1 in first College Football Playoff rankings of the year.
Women's golf nets sixth-place finish

Women’s golf nets sixth-place finish

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 22, 2018
With First-Team All-Americans Lauren Stephenson and Kristen Gillman out of the lineup, it was the first time the Crimson Tide finished a tournament outside the top five since October 2016.
By Hannah Saad

Defense suffocates Tennessee running game

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 20, 2018
For three quarters of its 58-21 win at Tennessee on Saturday, Alabama’s defense looked as dominant as it has all season.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama continues its winning streak against Tennessee

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree October 20, 2018
No. 1 Alabama continued its winning streak to 12 games over Tennessee with its 58-21 win. The Crimson Tide put up 547 yards of total offense, while holding the Volunteers to just 258.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Quinnen Williams gains notoriety after prolific play

James Ogletree, Staff Reporter October 18, 2018
Alabama’s coaching staff has selected Williams as one of its players of the week five times in seven games this season, tied with Tua Tagovailoa for the team lead.
Alabama's offense dominant in win over Missouri

Alabama’s offense dominant in win over Missouri

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 13, 2018
Alabama put together another commanding offense performance, beating Missouri 39-10.
By Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama wins convincingly in homecoming game

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree October 13, 2018
No. 1 Alabama defeated Missouri 39-10, but it came with a toll. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who left early in the third quarter because of a knee injury, and DeVonta Smith, who left with about six minutes left in the first half, were held out the rest of the  game because of injuries.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Defense aims to return to Alabama standard

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 11, 2018
The 65 points Alabama scored against Arkansas on Saturday came as no surprise. The 31 points the Razorbacks hung on the Crimson Tide’s usually stifling defense, however, did.
Photo courtesy of Alabama Athletics

Men’s golf wins Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 9, 2018
Alabama men's golf won its first tournament of the year in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, claiming the Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate for the sixth time in the last seven years. 
Jiwon Jeon making an impact for Alabama Women's Golf

Jiwon Jeon making an impact for Alabama Women’s Golf

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 7, 2018
On the 11th hole of the final round of the Schooner Fall Classic on Sept. 30, junior Jiwon Jeon stood on the tee box frustrated, anxious. She was tied for the lead.
by Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama stays undefeated with win against Arkansas

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree October 6, 2018
On Alabama’s second drive of the game, Tua Tagovailoa completed a pass to Irv Smith Jr. near midfield. Smith broke tackles and ran down to the Arkansas 12-yard line, where he was stripped by an Arkansas defender.
CW/ Grant Nicholls

Jedrick Wills plays with ‘poise’ as sophomore starting tackle

James Ogletree, Sports Editor October 4, 2018
As a highschool freshman in Lexington, Kentucky, Jedrick Wills got the opportunity to meet one of the top recruits in the state: running back Damien Harris, a junior who had already committed to the University of Michigan.
PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama starts preparation for Arkansas

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama starts preparation for Arkansas

James Ogletree, Staff Writer October 1, 2018
Alabama hit the practice field Monday afternoon to begin preparations for this week’s SEC game at Arkansas, the Crimson Tide’s third conference game of the young season.
Courtesy of Alabama Athletics

Women’s golf sets NCAA record at Schooner Fall Classic

James Ogletree, Staff Reporter September 30, 2018
Alabama women’s golf turned in a performance for the record books on Sunday in Norman, Oklahoma, shooting a three-round total of 45-under par, which is a new NCAA record, to win the Schooner Fall Classic by 17 shots over Texas.
Alabama's offense explodes for more than 600 yards in win over Louisiana-Lafayette

Alabama’s offense explodes for more than 600 yards in win over Louisiana-Lafayette

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 29, 2018
All 11 of Alabama’s drives concluded either with a touchdown, a field goal attempt or the end of a half.
By Hannah Saad

Alabama scores often in first half to defeat Louisiana-Lafayette

James Ogletree and Cody Estremera September 29, 2018

No. 1 Alabama cruised through Louisiana for its fifth win of the season. The Crimson Tide scored a touchdown on every drive of the first half en route to a 56-14 win over the Ragin’ Cajuns. Moment...

CW/ Grant Nicholls

Surtain II provides consistency in secondary

James Ogletree, Sports Editor September 27, 2018
Patrick Surtain II made his first collegiate start against Texas A&M, and came away with his first interception. The former five-star defensive back chose early on National Signing Day after the Crimson Tide made a late push to sign him.
Photo by Hannah Saad

Alabama sacks Texas A&M seven times in dominant win

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 22, 2018
The first pick was by junior linebacker Mack Wilson, whose four interceptions led the team a year ago.
Photo by Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama throws for more than 400 yards in blowout win

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree September 22, 2018
Tua Tagovailoa threw a 23-yard pass to a wide-open Hale Hentges, who ran the rest of the way to the end zone for his second catch and first touchdown of the year. The score put Alabama up 21-10.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Tight end Irv Smith Jr. develops all-around skills

James Ogletree, Sports Editor September 20, 2018
Irv Smith Jr. has become an all-around tight end that Alabama fans are used to in his junior year. He has nine catches, which is ninth on the team and has 122 receiving yards this year.
PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama begins preparation for Texas A&M

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama begins preparation for Texas A&M

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 17, 2018

Alabama began preparations for Saturday's SEC home opener against Texas A&M on Monday afternoon. Here are some observations from a steamy, yet brief, viewing period: Anfernee Jennings...

Offense defeats Ole Miss in record-setting fashion

Offense defeats Ole Miss in record-setting fashion

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 15, 2018

OXFORD — Sixty-two points. More than 500 yards of offense. Seven offensive touchdowns: two from each quarterback and three on the ground. However you measure it, Alabama’s offense marched into Vaught-Hemingway...

No. 1 Alabama routs Ole Miss for first SEC win of season

No. 1 Alabama routs Ole Miss for first SEC win of season

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree September 15, 2018
The Crimson Tide limited Ole Miss to just two completed passes and 13-passing yards since the end of the first quarter.
Frankie Capan shows maturity in first year

Frankie Capan shows maturity in first year

James Ogletree, Sports Editor September 13, 2018
On the first hole of Frankie Capan’s career last Friday, Alabama men’s golf coach, Jay Seawell, asked Capan if he preferred a lot of conversation during the round or a more quiet approach. Capan, never much of a thinker on the course, said he wasn’t sure. Then he pured a 3-iron right down the middle.
Ole Miss's 2018 offense mirrors past threat

Ole Miss’s 2018 offense mirrors past threat

James Ogletree, Sports Editor September 13, 2018
The Rebels have changed quarterbacks twice since that sweltering day in Oxford when Alabama faced its largest deficit in a decade: Chad Kelly has since moved on to the NFL and his apparent-heir Shea Patterson transferred to the University of Michigan this spring, but this iteration of the offense might be as prolific as the Kelly-led version that hung 43 points on the Crimson Tide in 2015 and 2016.
PRACTICE REPORT 9/10/18: Prep for Ole Miss Begins

PRACTICE REPORT 9/10/18: Prep for Ole Miss Begins

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 10, 2018
Alabama began preparation for its SEC opener at Ole Miss (6 p.m. Saturday) under cloud cover Monday afternoon.
CW/ Hannah Saad

Arkansas State struggled to score against Alabama defense

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 8, 2018
Alabama’s defense suffocated the Arkansas State Red Wolves at times Saturday afternoon and seemed to scarcely bother them at others.
CW/ Hannah Saad

No. 1 Alabama takes control early against Arkansas State

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree September 8, 2018
No. 1 Alabama put up 40 points in the first half against Arkansas State, finishing with a dominant 57-7 win. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw for 228 yards in the win.
PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama practices inside for final practice before Arkansas State

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama practices inside for final practice before Arkansas State

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 5, 2018

For the second time in three days Alabama practiced indoors due to steady rain early in the day. Here are some observations from Wednesday afternoon’s practice: Sophomore right guard Alex Leatherwood...

Tagovailoa shines in first career start

Tagovailoa shines in first career start

James Ogletree, Staff Writer September 1, 2018
After eight months of speculation that included both transfer rumors and Heisman hype, the title game hero dazzled in his first career start, racking up 253 yards of total offense and three total touchdowns en route to a 51-14 Alabama victory.
No. 1 Alabama defeats Louisville to start season

No. 1 Alabama defeats Louisville to start season

Cody Estremera and James Ogletree September 1, 2018

ORLANDO- No. 1 Alabama took care of business early on against Louisville. The Crimson Tide, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, put 28 points on the Cardinals in the first half before finishing 51-14....

CW File

Alabama’s offensive line blends experience with youth

James Ogletree, Sports Writer August 30, 2018
If Jonah Williams, Ross Pierschbacher, Lane Kiffin, Terry Saban and Harvey Updyke trot out to protect the Crimson Tide’s quarterback on the team’s opening play from scrimmage Saturday night, it would still qualify as Alabama’s most experienced season-opening offensive line since 2012, with 71 combined starts among them.
PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama holds final practice before season opener

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama holds final practice before season opener

James Ogletree, Staff Writer August 29, 2018

A 15-minute downpour forced Alabama’s Wednesday afternoon practice indoors to the Hank Crisp Indoor Facility. Here are some observations from the shorter-than-usual viewing period: The running backs...

PRACTICE REPORT: First game-week practice of 2018 season

PRACTICE REPORT: First game-week practice of 2018 season

James Ogletree, Staff Writer August 27, 2018
Here are some observations from Alabama's first game-week practice of 2018:
CW File

Trio of sophomore wide receivers fill starting roles

James Ogletree, Sports Writer August 27, 2018
The week of Alabama football’s season opener has arrived, and though there still hasn’t been an announcement regarding a starting quarterback, the Crimson Tide’s starting wide receiver spots have been locked down since the spring by three true sophomores: DeVonta Smith, Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III.
CW/ Hannah Saad

NCAA playoff berths not enough for UA soccer

James Ogletree, Staff Reporter August 20, 2018
Since the team began fall camp in early August, its motto has been “Find A Way.”
Breaking News

Alabama receives commitment from former five-star linebacker

James Ogletree August 8, 2018

After being granted a release from his letter of intent to the University of Washington, former five-start linebacker Brandon "Ale" Kaho has committed to play for Alabama, according to a report by 247Sports. Since...

Jalen Hurts Scrambles, A Day 2018

On Alabama’s second day of fall camp, the quarterback questions took center stage

James Ogletree August 4, 2018

For the first time since Alabama’s thrilling national title game against Georgia ignited the quarterback controversy heard ‘round the college football world, both quarterbacks were made available to...

Bryant-Denny Stadium Field, View From End Zone

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama focused on improving on second day of fall camp

James Ogletree August 4, 2018

A few hundred fans gathered in Bryant-Denny Stadium to observe Alabama football’s second practice session of the fall. Here are our observations from a sweltering, sunny day of practice: The two players...

Coach Nick Saban

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama holds first day of preseason practice

James Ogletree August 3, 2018

The full Alabama football team returned to the practice fields for the first time since April as the team opened its fall camp on Friday and kicked off its pursuit of an 18th national championship. Staff...

Bryant-Denny Stadium Field, View From End Zone

Alabama receives commitment from 2020 tight-end

James Ogletree July 31, 2018

Alabama football received a commitment from 2020 three-star tight end Caden Clark (Akron, Ohio) on Tuesday, the Crimson Tide’s sixth commit of the class and second pass-catcher. The 6-foot-5, 245-pound...

Jalen Hurts Scrambles, A Day 2018

Six Alabama players listed on Maxwell, Bednarik Award watch lists

James Ogletree July 16, 2018

The watch lists for the Maxwell and Bednarik Awards were announced Monday by the Maxwell Football Club of Philadelphia, with each featuring three Alabama players among its group of 85. The watch list...

Coach Avery Johnson

Alabama basketball lands commitment from four-star forward

James Ogletree July 13, 2018

For the second time in 10 days, a four-star out-of-state small forward in the 2019 recruiting class committed to play college basketball at the University of Alabama. Juwan Gary of Columbia, South Carolina...

Alabama linebacker Terrell Lewis suffers torn ACL

Alabama linebacker Terrell Lewis suffers torn ACL

James Ogletree July 10, 2018

Alabama outside linebacker Terrell Lewis underwent successful surgery for a torn ACL on Tuesday, according to a statement from coach Nick Saban. The statement adds that Lewis, a rising junior, sustained...

Alabama dismisses linebacker VanDarius Cowan for violation of team rules

Alabama dismisses linebacker VanDarius Cowan for violation of team rules

James Ogletree July 9, 2018

Alabama football announced Monday that sophomore linebacker VanDarius Cowan is no longer a member of the team. “VanDarius has been dismissed from the team and is no longer a part of our football program...

Alabama secures commitments from a pair of four-star pass catchers

Alabama secures commitments from a pair of four-star pass catchers

James Ogletree July 7, 2018

Alabama football’s already top-ranked 2019 recruiting class continued to pad its lead with two commitments from four-star pass catchers on Friday. John Metchie, a 6-foot wide receiver from The Peddie...

Alabama basketball secures commitment from prized prospect

Alabama basketball secures commitment from prized prospect

James Ogletree July 5, 2018

Diante Smith, a three-star small forward from Fort Walton Beach, Florida, committed to Alabama basketball on Wednesday, marking the team’s first commitment of the 2019 cycle. The 6-foot-6, 195-pound...

Alabama football lands commitment from top in-state prospect

Alabama football lands commitment from top in-state prospect

James Ogletree July 3, 2018

Alabama football has a new name atop its list of 2020 commits after Jayson Jones, the top-ranked junior in the state, committed to the Crimson Tide on July 2. Jones, a 6-foot-5, 322-pound defensive tackle,...

Alabama women's golfer earns silver medal in international competition

Alabama women’s golfer earns silver medal in international competition

James Ogletree June 30, 2018

Alabama sophomore golfer Angelica Moresco shot a 1-under-par 71 in the final round of the Mediterranean Games in Tarragona, Spain on Thursday, earning a silver medal for her second-place finish in the...

Alabama secures commitment from 2019 running back

Alabama secures commitment from 2019 running back

James Ogletree June 28, 2018

Alabama football bolstered its future backfield Wednesday with a commitment from 4-star running back Keilan Robinson, the 18th-ranked back in the Class of 2019 according to 247Sports’ rankings. Robinson,...

Alabama football lands commitment from class of 2020 QB

Alabama football lands commitment from class of 2020 QB

James Ogletree June 27, 2018

Alabama landed its first quarterback commitment of the 2020 recruiting cycle on Tuesday from Carson Beck, a pro-style passer from Jacksonville, Florida. Beck received an offer from Alabama on June 5, took...

Seniors set the tone for Alabama Athletics

James Ogletree April 26, 2018

Alabama had multiple senior leaders in each sport. These players provided leadership and production to their teams, causing them to perform to the standard that every team sets for itself. Here are some...

What A-Day means for Alabama's veteran players

What A-Day means for Alabama’s veteran players

James Ogletree April 19, 2018

Alabama football opened its spring season just under a month ago, and after 14 practices, including two scrimmages closed to the public, the players are ready to show thousands of fans the fruits of their...

PRACTICE REPORT: Football begins final week of spring practice

PRACTICE REPORT: Football begins final week of spring practice

James Ogletree April 17, 2018

After its second scrimmage on Saturday, Alabama football was back in action on Tuesday to start its final week of spring practice. The team will practice again on Thursday and will close the season with...

Nick Saban discusses first indoor scrimmage, Tua Tagovailoa injury in Saturday press conference

Nick Saban discusses first indoor scrimmage, Tua Tagovailoa injury in Saturday press conference

James Ogletree April 14, 2018

This spring is Nick Saban’s 12th season as the Alabama head coach since he was hired in early 2007. Saturday marked an occurrence that had never happened before under his oversight: an indoor scrimmage....

PRACTICE REPORT: A Day countdown has begun

PRACTICE REPORT: A Day countdown has begun

James Ogletree April 11, 2018

Alabama football players were greeted by a pleasantly warm afternoon as they took the practice fields on Wednesday afternoon. The official countdown to A-Day has begun, with only 10 days remaining until...

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama practices before White House visit

PRACTICE REPORT: Alabama practices before White House visit

James Ogletree April 9, 2018

With Alabama football traveling to the White House on Tuesday, the team kicked off this week’s abnormal practice schedule on Monday. The team’s remaining practices will be Wednesday and Friday, and...

Alabama searching for 'alpha dogs' on defensive line

Alabama searching for ‘alpha dogs’ on defensive line

James Ogletree April 9, 2018

Over the last two springs, Alabama's calling card, its defensive line, has lost a considerable amount of talent to the NFL draft. Four D-linemen have been selected in the first or second round of the draft...