Fans have a right to scream bloody murder about the apparent lack of preparation and lack of motivation. Fans have a right to question whether Coach Mike DuBose spent more time on his hands and knees begging for forgiveness than teaching his linemen how to block and tackle and avoid making silly and stupid mistakes. However, I would say the same thing I say just about every year at this Labor Day juncture. The only thing that really matters in the opening game is getting it over. Oh, and of course, winning the game.
First games are a lot like honeymoon nights for newlyweds.
You are anxious and jittery and look toward the moment with great anticipation. Then, it is over, either being a huge success or monumental failure. Of course, considering the recent news out of Tuscaloosa, perhaps this isn't the best example to use in reference to a DuBose-coached team. Nevertheless, having said all of this, Alabama would have lost the football game if Shaun Alexander had not been getting ready for begin his NFL career. While Alexander probably didn't dramatically help himself in reference to the Heisman race, he was the most valuable player on the field, and his presence late in the first half and later in the game made the difference.