2011 Alabama Crimson Tide football team
2011 Alabama Crimson Tide football | |
---|---|
Consensus national champion | |
Conference | Southeastern Conference |
Western Division | |
Ranking | |
Coaches | No. 1 |
AP | No. 1 |
Record | 12–1 (7–1 SEC) |
Head coach |
|
Offensive coordinator | Jim McElwain (4th season) |
Offensive scheme | Pro-style[1] |
Defensive coordinator | Kirby Smart (4th as coordinator, 5th overall season) |
Base defense | 3–4[2] |
MVP | Trent Richardson |
Captain | Mark Barron Dont'a Hightower Trent Richardson |
Home stadium | Bryant–Denny Stadium |
Conf | Overall | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Team | W | L | W | L | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Eastern Division | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No. 19 Georgia x | 7 | – | 1 | 10 | – | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No. 9 South Carolina | 6 | – | 2 | 11 | – | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Florida | 3 | – | 5 | 7 | – | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Vanderbilt | 2 | – | 6 | 6 | – | 7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Kentucky | 2 | – | 6 | 5 | – | 7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tennessee | 1 | – | 7 | 5 | – | 7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Western Division | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No. 2 LSU x$ | 8 | – | 0 | 13 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No. 1 Alabama %# | 7 | – | 1 | 12 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No. 5 Arkansas | 6 | – | 2 | 11 | – | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Auburn | 4 | – | 4 | 8 | – | 5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mississippi State | 2 | – | 6 | 7 | – | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ole Miss* | 0 | – | 8 | 2 | – | 10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Championship: LSU 42, Georgia 10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AP Poll
|
The 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide football team represented the University of Alabama in the 2011 NCAA Division I FBS football season. It was the Crimson Tide's 117th overall and 78th season as a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and its 20th within the SEC Western Division. The team was led by head coach Nick Saban, in his fifth year, and played their home games at Bryant–Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They finished the season with a record of twelve wins and one loss (12–1 overall, 7–1 in the SEC) and as consensus national champions.
After the completion of the
At the conclusion of the season, the Alabama defense led the nation in every major statistical category, and was the first to do so since the
Before the season
After winning the BCS National Championship in 2009, Alabama fell short of preseason expectations in 2010 and finished with a record of nine wins and three losses at the conclusion of the regular season. However, they finished with a 49–7 victory in the 2011 Capital One Bowl against Michigan State, and secured Alabama's third straight ten-win season and their third bowl win in four seasons.[4]
In February 2011, Alabama signed the No. 1 recruiting class according to Rivals and the No. 7 recruiting class according to Scout.[5][6] Spring practice began on March 21 and concluded with the annual A-Day game on April 16.[7] Televised live by ESPNU, the Crimson team of offensive starters defeated the White team of defensive starters by a final score of 14–10 before 92,310 fans in Bryant–Denny Stadium.[8] For their performances, Barrett Jones earned the Dwight Stephenson Lineman of the A-Day Game Award and Trent Richardson earned the Dixie Howell Memorial Most Valuable Player of the A-Day Game Award.[8]
In the weeks after the conclusion of spring practice, a pair of tragedies occurred that directly impacted the team. On April 27, 2011, an
By August, Alabama had a combined 31 players on 12 different preseason award watch lists.[13] These included Mark Barron, Dont'a Hightower, Dre Kirkpatrick, Robert Lester and Courtney Upshaw for the Chuck Bednarik Award; Duron Carter, Darius Hanks and Marquis Maze for the Fred Biletnikoff Award; Hightower, Nico Johnson and Upshaw for the Butkus Award; Lester and Trent Richardson for the Walter Camp Award; Hightower, Barrett Jones, Upshaw and William Vlachos for the Lombardi Award; Michael Williams for the John Mackey Award; Richardson for the Maxwell Award; Barron, Hightower, Kirkpatrick, Lester and Upshaw for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy; Jones and Vlachos for the Outland Trophy; Vlachos for the Rimington Trophy; Barron, Kirkpatrick and Lester for the Jim Thorpe Award; and Richardson for the Doak Walker Award.[13]
Between the conclusion of the 2010 season and the beginning of summer practice in August 2011, seven players transferred from the Crimson Tide.[14] Those who transferred included Robby Green (California University of Pennsylvania), B.J. Scott (South Alabama), Demetrius Goode (North Alabama), Petey Smith (Holmes Community College), Brandon Moore (East Mississippi Community College), Corey Grant (Auburn) and Keiwone Malone (Memphis).[14]
Coaching staff
Name | Position | Seasons at Alabama |
Alma Mater |
---|---|---|---|
Nick Saban | Head coach | 5 | Kent State (1973) |
Burton Burns | Associate head coach, running backs | 5 | Nebraska (1976) |
Mike Groh | Receivers, recruiting coordinator |
1 | Virginia (1995) |
Jim McElwain | Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks | 4 | Eastern Washington (1984) |
Jeremy Pruitt | Secondary | 2 | West Alabama (1999) |
Chris Rumph | Defensive line | 1 | South Carolina (1994) |
Kirby Smart | Defensive coordinator, linebackers | 5 | Georgia (1999) |
Jeff Stoutland | Assistant head coach, offensive line | 1 | Southern Connecticut (1984)
|
Sal Sunseri | Assistant head coach, linebackers | 3 | Pittsburgh (1982) |
Bobby Williams | Tight ends, special teams | 4 | Purdue (1982) |
Scott Cochran | Strength and conditioning | 5 | LSU (2001) |
Reference:[22] |
Analysts
- Offensive analysts
- Defensive analysts
- Special teams analysts
Graduate assistants
Student assistants
Roster
Returning starters
Alabama had 17 returning starters from the previous season, including ten on defense and seven on offense.
Offense
|
Defense
|
Special teams
|
|
Depth chart
Starters and backups.[28]
Recruiting class
Alabama's
US college sports recruiting information for 2011 recruits | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Hometown | High school / college | Height | Weight | 40‡ | Commit date |
Brent Calloway LB |
Russellville, Alabama | Russellville High School | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) | 210 lb (95 kg) | 4.63 | Feb 2, 2011 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
S
|
Orlando, Florida | Dr. Phillips High School | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | 190 lb (86 kg) | 4.50 | Apr 17, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Trey DePriest LB |
Springfield, Ohio | Springfield High School | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | 230 lb (100 kg) | 4.69 | Jul 30, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Quinton Dial DT |
Clay, Alabama | East Mississippi Community College | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) | 310 lb (140 kg) | Feb 4, 2010 | |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: N/A | ||||||
Xzavier Dickson DE |
Griffin, Georgia | Griffin High School | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) | 248 lb (112 kg) | 4.90 | Jan 5, 2011 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Aaron Douglas OT
|
Maryville, Tennessee | Arizona Western College | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) | 290 lb (130 kg) | Dec 16, 2010 | |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: N/A | ||||||
Phillip Ely QB |
Tampa, Florida | Plant High School
|
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) | 186 lb (84 kg) | 4.57 | Aug 11, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Malcolm Faciane TE |
Picayune, Mississippi | Picayune Memorial High School | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) | 263 lb (119 kg) | 4.61 | Apr 15, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
LaMichael Fanning DE |
Hamilton, Georgia | Harris County High School
|
6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) | 270 lb (120 kg) | 5.00 | Apr 17, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Demetrius Hart
RB |
Orlando, Florida | Dr. Phillips High School | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) | 190 lb (86 kg) | 4.5 | Jan 8, 2011 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Christion Jones CB |
Adamsville, Alabama | Minor High School | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) | 175 lb (79 kg) | 4.50 | Sep 30, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Ryan Kelly C
|
West Chester Township, Butler County, Ohio | Lakota West High School | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) | 280 lb (130 kg) | 5.00 | Jul 19, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
OT
|
Hyattsville, Maryland | DeMatha Catholic High School | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) | 325 lb (147 kg) | 5.00 | Feb 5, 2011 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Isaac Luatua OG
|
La Mirada, California | La Mirada High School | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | 298 lb (135 kg) | 4.98 | Jun 8, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Jeoffrey Pagan DE |
Asheville, North Carolina | Asheville High School | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) | 272 lb (123 kg) | 4.60 | Feb 2, 2011 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
D. J. Pettway DT |
Pensacola, Florida | Pensacola Catholic High School | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | 255 lb (116 kg) | Apr 19, 2010 | |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Marvin Shinn WR |
Prichard, Alabama | Vigor High School | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) | 195 lb (88 kg) | 4.50 | Apr 18, 2009 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Vinnie Sunseri LB |
Tuscaloosa, Alabama | Northridge High School | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) | 205 lb (93 kg) | 4.60 | Jun 12, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Bradley Sylve WR |
Port Sulphur, Louisiana | South Plaquemines High School | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) | 175 lb (79 kg) | 4.40 | May 12, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Jabriel Washington CB |
Jackson, Tennessee | Trinity Christian Academy | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) | 165 lb (75 kg) | Apr 18, 2010 | |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Jesse Williams DT |
Brisbane, Australia | Arizona Western College | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) | 340 lb (150 kg) | Sep 4, 2010 | |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: N/A | ||||||
Danny Woodson WR |
Mobile, Alabama | Le Flore High School | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | 198 lb (90 kg) | 4.5 | Mar 13, 2010 |
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: Rivals: 247Sports: ESPN: | ||||||
Overall recruiting rankings: Scout: 6 Rivals: 1 ESPN: 2 | ||||||
Sources:
|
Schedule
The 2011 schedule was officially released on October 19, 2010.[32] In accordance with conference rules, Alabama faced all five Western Division opponents: Arkansas, Auburn, LSU, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss. They also faced three Eastern Division opponents: official SEC rival Tennessee, Florida, and Vanderbilt.[33] Alabama did not play SEC opponents Georgia, Kentucky or South Carolina.[33] The contest against Vanderbilt served as the 2011 homecoming game.[34]
Alabama played four non-conference games. The game against
In addition to the weekly television coverage, radio coverage for all games was broadcast statewide on The Crimson Tide Sports Network (CTSN).
Date | Time | Opponent | Rank | Site | TV | Result | Attendance |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
September 3 | 11:21 a.m. | Kent State* | No. 2 | SECN | W 48–7 | 101,821 | |
September 10 | 2:30 p.m. | at No. 23 University Park, PA (rivalry) | ABC | W 27–11 | 107,846 | ||
September 17 | 6:30 p.m. | SECRN | W 41–0 | 101,821 | |||
September 24 | 2:30 p.m. | No. 14 CBS | W 38–14 | 101,821 | |||
October 1 | 7:00 p.m. | at No. 12 Florida | No. 3 | CBS | W 38–10 | 90,888 | |
October 8 | 6:00 p.m. | Vanderbilt | No. 2 |
| ESPNU | W 34–0 | 101,821 |
October 15 | 5:00 p.m. | at Ole Miss | No. 2 | ESPN2 | W 52–7 | 61,792 | |
October 22 | 6:00 p.m. | Tennessee | No. 2 |
| ESPN2 | W 37–6 | 101,821 |
November 5 | 7:00 p.m. | No. 1 College GameDay) | CBS | L 6–9 OT | 102,437 | ||
November 12 | 6:45 p.m. | at Mississippi State | No. 3 | ESPN | W 24–7 | 57,871 | |
November 19 | 1:00 p.m. | No. 3 ( FCS) Georgia Southern* | No. 3 |
| PPV | W 45–21 | 101,821 |
November 26 | 2:30 p.m. | at No. 24 College GameDay ) | CBS | W 42–14 | 87,451 | ||
January 9, 2012 | 7:30 p.m. | vs. No. 1 College GameDay ) | ESPN | W 21–0 | 78,237 | ||
|
- Source: Rolltide.com: 2011 Alabama football schedule[41]
Game summaries
Kent State
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The Crimson Tide opened the 2011 season at home against Nick Saban's alma mater, the
On the second Crimson Tide possession of the third quarter, Phillip Sims threw an interception to Norman Wolfe that was returned to the Alabama three-yard line. Two plays later, Kent State scored their only points of the game when Spencer Keith connected with Justin Thompson for a three-yard touchdown reception to cut the lead to 24–7.[46] The Crimson Tide responded with touchdowns on the next two consecutive drives. Richardson and Lacy both scored on one-yard runs to extend Alabama's lead to 38–7 entering the fourth quarter.[43] In the fourth, the Tide scored their final touchdown of the afternoon on a 49-yard Jalston Fowler run and their final points on a 32-yard Shelley field goal to make the final score 48–7.[43] For the game, Alabama's defense was dominant in allowing −9 yards rushing and 90 yards of total offense against Kent State in the contest.[47] On offense, the Crimson Tide had 482 total yards with three different running backs scoring touchdowns and Maze totaling 118 yards receiving on eight catches with one touchdown.[47]
Penn State
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In what was the second consecutive meeting between the Crimson Tide and the Penn State Nittany Lions, and first at Happy Valley since 1989, Alabama won 27–11.[49][50] Penn State took the opening possession down the field and recorded a 43-yard field goal by Evan Lewis to take an early 3–0 lead by using all 3 of their timeouts.[51] Alabama took a 7–3 lead later in the first quarter after A. J. McCarron connected with Michael Williams for a five-yard touchdown reception to cap an 11-play, 69-yard drive.[51] A 22-yard Jeremy Shelley kick extended the Crimson Tide lead to 10–3 early in the second quarter.[49] Then after trading punts, Dre Kirkpatrick forced Andrew Szczerba to fumble the ball that was recovered by Alabama's DeQuan Menzie.[51] Ten plays later, the Crimson Tide led 17–3 after a three-yard Trent Richardson touchdown run.[51]
In the third quarter Shelley connected on an 18-yard field goal and Richardson scored his second rushing touchdown of the game midway through the fourth on a 13-yard run to give Alabama a 27–3 lead.[51] The final points of the game came late in the fourth when Silas Redd scored on a one-yard touchdown for the Nittany Lions, and Rob Bolden converted the two-point conversion to bring the final score to 27–11.[51][52]
Trent Richardson ran for 111 yards and two touchdowns while Eddie Lacy ran for 85.[50] A. J. McCarron threw for 163 yards and a touchdown.[50] For his seven tackles, interception and fumble recovery, Mark Barron was named SEC Defensive Player of the Week.[53] The 107,846 fans in attendance were the most to ever see an Alabama squad compete on the gridiron, and the victory improved their all-time record against the Nittany Lions to 10–5.[54] The outcome was also noted as the final career loss for Joe Paterno as the Nittany Lions' head coach.[55]
North Texas
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In their meeting against the North Texas Mean Green, Alabama outgained their opponent 586 to 169 yards of total offense in Alabama's 41–0 victory.[57][58] After a 26-yard Jeremy Shelley field goal gave the Crimson Tide a 3–0 lead, Trent Richardson scored their first touchdown of the evening on Alabama's second offensive possession to give them a 10–0 lead at the end of the first period.[59][60] The Crimson Tide extended their lead to 20–0 by halftime after a 43-yard Eddie Lacy touchdown run and a 37-yard Shelley field goal in the second quarter.[59][60]
North Texas opened the second half with a nine-play, 54-yard drive to set up a 42-yard Zach Olen field goal attempt. However, the kick was
Trent Richardson ran for a career-high 167 yards and three touchdowns and Eddie Lacy ran for 161 yards and two touchdowns and became the first pair of running backs to each run for 150 yards in a game.[60][61] The shutout was the Crimson Tide's first since they defeated Chattanooga 45–0 in 2009 and improved Alabama's all-time record against the Mean Green to 4–0.[61]
Arkansas
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
After three consecutive victories to start the season, the Crimson Tide opened conference play against the
After holding Arkansas scoreless on their first possession of the third quarter, Alabama's Marquis Maze returned a Dylan Breeding punt 83-yards for a touchdown and a 24–7 Crimson Tide lead.[66] On Alabama's next possession, Trent Richardson caught a screen pass from McCarron and ran it 61-yards for a touchdown and extended the Alabama lead to 31–7.[66] The Razorbacks scored on the following possession when Wilson threw his second touchdown pass of the afternoon after he connected on a 19-yard pass to Cobi Hamilton.[66] Eddie Lacy then scored the final points of the game late in the third on a four-yard touchdown run to give the Crimson Tide the 38–14 victory.[64][66] The Alabama defense only allowed 17 rushing and 226 of total offense to the Razorbacks in the victory.[63] For his 235 all-purpose yards and touchdown reception, Trent Richardson was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week.[68] The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Razorbacks to 12–8 (15–7 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).[69]
Florida
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In what was the first meeting as opposing head coaches between Nick Saban and his former assistant coach from both
Alabama extended their lead to 24–10 at halftime with a pair of second-quarter touchdowns. Courtney Upshaw scored a defensive touchdown early in the quarter after he intercepted a Brantley pass and returned it 45-yards for the score.[77] A. J. McCarron scored later in the quarter on a one-yard quarterback sneak to cap a ten-play, 61-yard drive.[75] Late in the quarter, the Gators did have a scoring opportunity by driving to the Alabama 13-yard line. However, the Alabama defense sacked Brantley on consecutive snaps for a loss of 22-yards and knocked Brantley out of the game with an injury.[75][77] Sturgis then missed a 52-yard field goal attempt and Alabama led 24–10 at the half.[75]
After a scoreless third quarter, a pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns gave Alabama the 38–10 victory. Richardson scored his second touchdown of the game with 12:25 remaining on a 36-yard run and Eddie Lacy scored the final points of the game on a 20-yard run.[75][76] For the game, Alabama's defense was dominant in only allowing 222 total yards of offense, with the 15 rushing yards being the fewest ever allowed against Florida in their all-time series.[78] Trent Richardson established a new career high for rushing yards in game with his 181 yards on 29 attempts.[78] The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Gators to 22–14 (23–14 without the NCAA vacation of the 2005 victory).[78]
Vanderbilt
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
For the 91st
In the third quarter, Trent Richardson scored first on a one-yard touchdown run followed by a 39-yard McCarron touchdown pass to White on consecutive possessions.
For the game, Trent Richardson ran for 107 yards to extend his streak of consecutive games rushing for at least 100 yards to five games.[84] The defense was dominant in completing their second shutout of the season and only allowing Vanderbilt 190 yards of total offense.[84] The victory improved Alabama's all-time homecoming record to 77–13–1 and their record against the Commodores to 59–19–4 (61–18–4 without the NCAA vacations and forfeits).[84]
Ole Miss
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
After Ole Miss took an early 7–0 lead, the Crimson Tide scored 52 unanswered points in their 52–7 victory over the Rebels at Vaught–Hemingway Stadium.[86][87] The Rebels scored their only points of the game on their first possession. Jeff Scott scored on a one-yard touchdown run to cap a 5-play, 72-yard drive to give Ole Miss their only lead of the game at 7–0.[88] Alabama responded on the following drive with the first of four Trent Richardson touchdowns of the evening on an eight-yard run to tie the game at 7–7.[88] The Crimson Tide added ten points in the second quarter to take a 17–7 halftime lead. Richardson scored on a seven-yard touchdown and after Cade Foster missed a 53-yard field goal attempt, Jeremy Shelley connected for 24-yard field goal.[88]
In the third quarter, Alabama put the game away with four touchdowns. After five consecutive A. J. McCarron passes gained 65-yards, Richardson gained the final eight en route to his third touchdown of the evening.[88] On the next Alabama possession, Richardson gained 16-yards and then scored a touchdown on a 76-yard run, the longest of his career, for a 31–7 lead.[88][89] On the first play ensuing Rebels possession, Courtney Upshaw forced a Randall Mackey fumble that was recovered by Ed Stinson at the Ole Miss 15-yard line.[88] Two plays later, the Crimson Tide led 38–7 after Jalston Fowler scored on an eight-yard touchdown run.[88] The final points of the quarter came on a ten-yard McCarron touchdown pass to Brandon Gibson, and the final points of the game came in the fourth quarter on a 69-yard Fowler touchdown run to make the final score 52–7.[88]
Alabama's defense again had a strong performance in only allowing the Rebels 141 total yards of offense (28 rushing, 113 passing).[89] Richardson set a new career high with his 183 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. For his performance, Richardson was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week.[90] The 52 total points were the most Alabama had scored in a SEC game since defeating Vanderbilt 59–28 in 1990.[87][89] The victory was their eighth straight over Ole Miss and improved Alabama's all-time record against the Rebels 45–9–2 (49–8–2 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).[89]
Tennessee
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In the 2011 edition of the
After holding the Volunteers to a
In the game, Marquis Maze had 106 yards receiving on five catches and McCarron set a new career high with 284 yards passing.[98] For his defensive performance, Hightower was named both the Lott IMPACT Player of the Week and the SEC Defensive Player of the Week.[99] The victory was Alabama's fifth consecutive over Tennessee and improved their all-time record against the Volunteers to 48–38–7 (49–37–8 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).[98]
LSU
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Coming off their bye and in what was hyped as the latest "Game of the Century" in college football, the LSU Tigers defeated the Crimson Tide 9–6 in overtime.[101][102][103][104] After a scoreless first quarter that saw the Crimson Tide miss two field goals, and another blocked early in the second quarter, Alabama took a 3–0 lead midway through the second on a 34-yard Jeremy Shelley field goal.[105] LSU responded on their following possession by driving to the Alabama two-yard line and kicking a 19-yard Drew Alleman field goal as time expired to tie the game at 3–3 at halftime.[106]
Just as the first half was dominated by both defenses, the second was no different with both Alabama and LSU only managing a pair of field goals. Alabama's came in the third on a 46-yard Cade Foster score and LSU's came in the fourth on a 30-yard Alleman score.[105][106] In the overtime period, Foster missed a 52-yard field goal attempt and Alleman connected on a 25-yard attempt to give the Tigers the 9–6 victory.[105][106] Both defenses held each offense to less than 300 yards of total offense with each having a pair of interceptions.[105][106] With the loss, Alabama dropped to 4–8 all-time in overtime games and brought Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 45–25–5.[107]
Mississippi State
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A week after their loss to LSU, Alabama traveled to Starkville and defeated their long-time rival, the Mississippi State Bulldogs 24–7.[109][110] After a pair of missed field goals, one from 19-yard by Cade Foster and the second from 31-yards by Jeremy Shelley, Alabama scored their first points in the second quarter.[111] Eddie Lacy capped a five-play, 52-yard drive with a two-yard touchdown run to give the Crimson Tide a 7–0 lead.[109] Later in the quarter Derek DePasquale missed a 41-yard field goal attempt for the Bulldogs, but on the ensuing Alabama possession Cameron Lawrence intercepted an A. J. McCarron pass and returned it to the Alabama four-yard line.[111] However, the Alabama defense held the Bulldogs to only a field goal attempt which was then missed from 29-yards by Brian Egan to preserve a 7–0 halftime lead for the Crimson Tide.[111]
Alabama extended their lead to 10–0 after Shelley connected on a 24-yard field goal early in the third quarter.[109] Early in the fourth, Trent Richardson scored on a two-yard run for a 17–0 Crimson Tide lead.[109] However, on the ensuing kickoff was returned 68-yards to the Alabama 22-yard line by John Fulton, and four plays later the Bulldogs cut the score to 17–7 after Tyler Russell threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Chris Smith.[111] The Crimson Tide then closed the game with an eleven-play, 73-yard drive, all on the ground, with Lacy scoring his second touchdown of the night from 32 yards out to give Alabama the 24–7 victory.[109][110] The 127 rushing yards gained by Richardson was his seventh 100-yard rushing game of the season.[112] The victory improved Alabama's all-time record against the Bulldogs to 74–18–3 (76–17–3 without NCAA vacations and forfeits).[112]
Georgia Southern
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Against the
After forcing a punt to open the second half, Alabama scored a touchdown on its opening possession with a 34-yard touchdown reception by Brad Smelley from McCarron.[117] However, on the ensuing kickoff, Laron Scott returned it 95-yards for a touchdown to cut the lead again to 31–21.[118] Alabama responded on the following drive with Richardson accounting for 46 yards of it on seven carries with a one-yard touchdown run for a 38–21 Alabama lead.[117] In the fourth quarter, Alabama stopped the Eagles at the Crimson Tide eight-yard line after an incomplete Shaw pass on fourth down.[117] From there the Alabama offense began a 15-play, 92-yard drive that took 8:36 to complete with McCarron throwing a four-yard touchdown pass to Smelley for the final points in their 45–21 win.[117] For the game, Richardson had 175 yards on the ground with a pair of rushing touchdowns and one receiving.[119] His one-yard touchdown run in the third quarter gave Richardson the Alabama single-season rushing touchdown record breaking the previous mark of 19 set by Shaun Alexander in 1999.[119]
Auburn
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
After the loss against the
On the opening
In the game, Richardson set a new career high with his 203 rushing yards and tied Mark Ingram II for the most 100-yard rushing games in a season with nine.[128] The defense held Auburn to 140 total yards of offense, with only 78 yards on the ground, and zero offensive touchdowns in the victory.[121] The victory brought Alabama's all-time record against the Tigers to 41–34–1.[128]
LSU
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
On December 4, 2011, the final
Shelley extended the Crimson Tide lead to 12–0 after he converted a 35-yard field goal on Alabama's first possession of the second half.[133] He then missed a 41-yard field goal attempt wide right before he connected on a 44-yard attempt to give the Crimson Tide a 15–0 lead at the end of the third quarter.[133] Midway through the fourth quarter, the LSU offense crossed the 50-yard line for the first time of the game only to be pushed back to the 50 after Dont'a Hightower sacked Jordan Jefferson on a fourth down play to give possession back to Alabama.[133][134] On that possession, the Crimson Tide scored the only touchdown of the game on a 34-yard Trent Richardson run to make the final score 21–0.[131][132]
In the game, Alabama outgained LSU in total offense 384 to 92 yards, and the shutout was the first ever completed in a BCS game since the advent of the BCS in 1998.[131][134] Jeremy Shelley established the all-time bowl record with seven field goal attempts and tied the all-time bowl record with five made.[135] For their performances, Courtney Upshaw was named the defensive player of the game and A. J. McCarron was named the offensive player of the game.[134][136]
McCarron became the first sophomore quarterback to lead a team to a BCS National Title.
Rankings
Entering the 2011 season, the Crimson Tide was ranked No. 2 in the AP and Coaches' Preseason Polls.[137] Alabama dropped no further than to No. 3 in any of the rankings through week nine when they were ranked No. 2 for their November 5 game against LSU.[138] After their 9–6 loss against the Tigers, Alabama dropped to No. 4 in all but the BCS standing where they dropped to No. 3.[139] The Crimson Tide regained their No. 2 ranking in all of the polls after Oklahoma State was upset by Iowa State, and retained the No. 2 position through the end of the regular season to qualify for the BCS National Championship Game.[140][141] After their victory over LSU in the BCS National Championship Game, Alabama was selected No. 1 in both the AP and Coaches' Polls.[142]
Week | ||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Poll | Pre | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | Final |
AP | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Coaches | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Harris | Not released | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | Not released | |||||
BCS | Not released | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | Not released |
*Source: ESPN.com: 2011 NCAA Football Rankings[143]
After the season
Following the victory against LSU for the national championship, the team arrived at the
As part of the A-Day celebrations on April 14, the 2011 team captains Trent Richardson, Dont'a Hightower and Mark Barron were honored at the Walk of Fame ceremony at the base of Denny Chimes.[146] On April 19, the team made their trip to the White House, where President Barack Obama offered congratulatory remarks for their championship season and recognized the team for their community service given in Tuscaloosa after the April 2011 tornadoes.[147]
Final statistics
After their victory over LSU in the BCS National Championship Game, Alabama's final team statistics were released. On the defensive side of the ball, of the 120 FBS teams, the Crimson Tide was ranked at the top of all major defensive categories in conference and nationally.
On offense, of the 120 FBS teams, Alabama ranked sixteenth in rushing offense (214.46 yards per game), twentieth in scoring offense (34.85 points per game), 31st in total offense (429.62 yards per game) and 69th in passing offense (215.15 yards per game).[149] In conference, they ranked first in rushing offense, second in total offense, third in scoring offense and fourth in passing offense.[149] Individually, Trent Richardson led the SEC and the team offensively with 1,679 total yards rushing, an average of 129.15 rushing yards per game, an average of 160.23 all-purpose yards per game, 21 rushing touchdowns and an average of 11.08 points per game.[149] A. J. McCarron led the team in passing offense and completed 219 of 328 passes for 2,634 passing yards and 16 touchdowns.[154] Marquis Maze led the team with 56 receptions for 627 yards, and Brad Smelley led the team with four touchdown receptions.[155]
Awards
Following the SEC Championship Game, multiple Alabama players were recognized for their on-field performances with a variety of awards and recognitions. At the team awards banquet on December 4, Mark Barron, Dont'a Hightower and Trent Richardson were each named the permanent captains of the 2011 squad.[156] At that time Richardson was also named the 2011 most valuable player with Barron, Hightower and Courtney Upshaw named defensive players of the year and A. J. McCarron and Marquis Maze named the offensive players of the year.[156]
Conference
The SEC recognized several players for their individual performances with various awards. Trent Richardson was named the AP Offensive Player of the Year.[157] In addition to Richardson, Mark Barron, Barrett Jones, Courtney Upshaw and William Vlachos were named to the AP All-SEC First Team.[157] Josh Chapman, Dont'a Hightower and Dre Kirkpatrick were named to the AP All-SEC Second Team.[157] Barron, Hightower, Jones, Richardson, Upshaw and Vlachos were named to the Coaches' All-SEC First Team.[158] Chapman, Kirkpatrick, Marquis Maze (as both a wide receiver and return specialist) and Chance Warmack were named to the Coaches' All-SEC Second Team.[158] Cyrus Kouandjio and Vinnie Sunseri were both named to Freshman All-SEC Team.[159] The SEC named Richardson the Offensive Player of the Year.[160] Jones earned the Jacobs Blocking Trophy and was also named the SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year.[160]
National
After the season, a number of Alabama players were named as national award winners and finalists. Trent Richardson was named a finalist to
In addition to the individual awards, several players were also named to various national
All-star games
Several Alabama players were selected by postseason all-star games. Mark Barron, Josh Chapman, Marquis Maze, DeQuan Menzie, Courtney Upshaw and William Vlachos were selected to play in the
Coaching changes
In the weeks following the conclusion of the season, several changes were made to the Alabama coaching staff. On December 13 offensive coordinator Jim McElwain was introduced as the head coach with the Colorado State Rams.[182] He stayed with Alabama through the BCS National Championship Game and began his transition as the Rams' head coach from Tuscaloosa.[183] On January 13, assistant head and linebackers coach Sal Sunseri was named as the defensive coordinator with the Tennessee Volunteers.[184] On January 18, 2012, Alabama officials announced the hires of both Doug Nussmeier from the Washington Huskies as offensive coordinator and of Lance Thompson from Tennessee as outside linebackers coach.[185]
NFL Draft
Of all the
References
- General
- 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book. Tuscaloosa, Alabama: University of Alabama Athletics Media Relations Office. 2011. Archived from the original on July 10, 2011. Retrieved August 13, 2011.
- Specific
- ^ Gould, Izzy (January 24, 2012). "Nick Saban's Alabama system paves way for smooth transition to the NFL". AL.com. Retrieved June 22, 2012.
- ^ McAlister, Brian (November 2, 2011). "Watch Nick Saban explain Alabama's 3–4 defense". AL.com. Retrieved June 22, 2012.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (September 2, 2011). "Alabama's opener against Kent State could help healing in Tuscaloosa". AL.com. Retrieved March 25, 2012.
- ^ "Mark Ingram runs for two touchdowns as Alabama cruises". ESPN.com. Associated Press. January 1, 2011. Retrieved August 9, 2011.
- ^ a b "2011 Team Rankings". Rivals.com. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ a b "2011 College Football Team Recruiting Rankings". Scout.com. Retrieved November 4, 2010.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (February 11, 2011). "Alabama spring practice begins March 21; A-Day set for April 16". AL.com. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (April 17, 2011). "Alabama A-Day 2011 spring football game news and notes". AL.com. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ a b Anderson, Lars (May 23, 2011). "Terror, tragedy and hope in Tuscaloosa". Sports Illustrated. sportsillustrated.cnn.com. Retrieved August 10, 2011.
- ^ a b Goodbread, Chase (June 29, 2011). "Drugs cited in University of Alabama player's death". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved July 23, 2011.
- ^ Goodbread, Chase (December 26, 2010). "Transfer Douglas charged with DUI". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved July 23, 2011.
- ^ Staff Reporters (May 16, 2011). "Hundreds mourn former UT football player Aaron Douglas". Knoxville News Sentinel. GoVolsXtra.com. Retrieved July 23, 2011.
- ^ a b "2011 National College Football Awards Association Watch Lists" (PDF). National College Football Awards Association. Archived (PDF) from the original on July 22, 2011. Retrieved August 9, 2011.
- ^ a b Goodbread, Chase (July 31, 2011). "Robby Green to transfer to California University of Pennsylvania". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved September 2, 2011.
- ^ DeLassus, David. "Nick L. Saban Records by Year". College Football Data Warehouse. Archived from the original on December 26, 2013. Retrieved January 21, 2012.
- ^ Riggs, Randy (January 4, 2011). "Horns hire Alabama's Davis to coach defensive tackles". Austin American-Statesman. Statesman.com. Archived from the original on January 7, 2011. Retrieved January 7, 2011.
- ^ Goodbread, Chase (January 5, 2011). "Clemson assistant replacing Davis on Bama staff". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved January 7, 2011.
- ^ Goodbread, Chase (January 12, 2011). "Pendry resigns, Stoutland expected as replacement". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved January 14, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama hires Stoutland as offensive line coach". The Birmingham News. AL.com. Associated Press. January 14, 2011. Archived from the original on October 4, 2012. Retrieved January 14, 2011.
- ^ Deas, Tommy (January 21, 2011). "Cignetti to be named IUP coach". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved January 21, 2011.
- ^ Goodbread, Chase (February 7, 2011). "Groh named to replace Cignetti on Alabama staff". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved February 7, 2011.
- ^ 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book, p. 2
- ^ "Alabama football begin spring drills". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. March 21, 2011. Retrieved August 10, 2011.
- ^ Rogers, Ken (March 20, 2011). "Tide football team begins spring work Monday". Dothan Eagle. DothanEagle.com. Archived from the original on October 8, 2011. Retrieved August 10, 2011.
- ^ 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book, p. 9
- ^ 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book, p. 11
- ^ 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book, p. 13
- ^ Gould, Izzy (August 29, 2011). "Take a look at Alabama depth chart:DeAndrew White listed as starter; Barrett Jones to start at left tackle ..." AL.com. Retrieved August 29, 2011.
- ^ "ESPNU 150 Class of 2011". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 9, 2011.
- ^ "Crimson Tide add 14 on National Signing Day". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. February 2, 2011. Retrieved August 9, 2011.
- ^ a b "Crimson Tide welcomes eight players for spring semester". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. January 12, 2011. Retrieved January 21, 2012.
- ^ a b c "Alabama announces 2011 football schedule". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 20, 2010. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ a b "SEC Football scheduling format". SECsports.com. The Southeastern Conference. August 8, 2006. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama football homecoming game set for October 8 vs. Vanderbilt". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. January 25, 2011. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ Rice, Jeff (September 8, 2010). "UA–Penn State series was delayed five years". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved August 29, 2011.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (December 4, 2011). "It's official: Alabama vs. LSU in BCS Championship Game on Jan. 9 in New Orleans". AL.com. Retrieved December 4, 2011.
- ^ a b "LSU, Alabama to play for title". ESPN.com. ESPN.com news services. December 4, 2011. Retrieved December 4, 2011.
- ^ "Jeff Sagarin NCAA football ratings". USA Today. January 12, 2012. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ "2011–2012 College Football Season Final Congrove Computer Rankings". College Football Poll.com. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ a b 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide Football Record Book, p. 207
- ^ "2011 Alabama football schedule". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. Archived from the original on September 9, 2011. Retrieved April 29, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama to open season against Kent State". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. August 29, 2011. Retrieved August 29, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e "Kent State vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 3, 2011. Retrieved September 3, 2011.
- ^ Alexander, Elton (October 21, 2010). "Kent State to open 2011 football season at Alabama". The Plain Dealer. Cleveland, Ohio: Cleveland.com. Retrieved August 29, 2011.
- ^ a b "AJ McCarron leads No. 2 Alabama over Kent State". ESPN.com. Associated Press. September 3, 2011. Retrieved September 3, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "Kent State vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 3, 2011. Retrieved September 3, 2011.
- ^ a b "Kent State vs Alabama: Team Statistics". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 3, 2011. Retrieved September 3, 2011.
- ^ "Football heads to Happy Valley to face Penn State". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 5, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Alabama vs Penn State: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 10, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ a b c "AJ McCarron calmly leads No. 3 Alabama past No. 23 Penn State". ESPN.com. Associated Press. September 10, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f "Alabama vs Penn State: Play-by-play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 10, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ Musselman, Ron (September 10, 2011). "No. 3 Alabama thumps No. 23 Penn State, 27–11". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Post-Gazette.com. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ "SEC Football Players Of The Week for games of September 10". SECdigitalnetwork.com. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama vs Penn State Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 10, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Don Jr. (January 22, 2012). "Nick Saban reacts to Joe Paterno's death". AL.com. Retrieved February 14, 2012.
- ^ "Football returns home to host North Texas". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 12, 2011. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ a b "North Texas vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 17, 2011. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
- ^ "Trent Richardson, No. 2 Alabama roll over North Texas". ESPN.com. Associated Press. September 17, 2011. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f "North Texas vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 17, 2011. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f Hurt, Cecil (September 19, 2011). "Crimson Tide blows by Mean Green". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
- ^ a b "North Texas vs Alabama: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 17, 2011. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
- ^ "Football hosts Arkansas in Southeastern Conference opener". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 19, 2011. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Arkansas vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 24, 2011. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ a b "Trent Richardson's big day helps Alabama overwhelm Arkansas". ESPN.com. Associated Press. September 24, 2011. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ a b Hurt, Cecil (September 24, 2011). "Tide blows by Arkansas in SEC opener". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f g h "Arkansas vs Alabama: Play-by-play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 24, 2011. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Don Jr. (September 24, 2011). "DeQuan Menzie's pick six 'a big game-changer'". AL.com. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Don Jr. (September 26, 2011). "Tide's Trent Richardson named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week". AL.com. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama vs Arkansas Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 24, 2011. Retrieved September 26, 2011.
- ^ "Football heads to Florida for key road matchup". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. September 26, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b "Alabama vs Florida: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 1, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ "Gators lose QB John Brantley, game to No. 3 Crimson Tide". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 1, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ Staples, Andy (September 28, 2011). "Student, teacher to meet as Florida takes on 'Bama in Swamp matchup". Sports Illustrated. SI.com. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b Barlis, Jeff (October 1, 2011). "Sideline reports: Fast start, poor finish". The Gainesville Sun. GatorSports.com. Archived from the original on October 5, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f g "Alabama vs Florida: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 1, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b Jones, David (October 1, 2011). "Trent Richardson, defense lead No. 3 Alabama past Florida". USA Today. USAToday.com. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b Kausler, Don Jr. (October 1, 2011). "Courtney Upshaw delivers the Tide's biggest plays". AL.com. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Alabama vs Florida: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 1, 2011. Retrieved October 2, 2011.
- ^ a b "Football to host Vanderbilt on Homecoming". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 3, 2011. Retrieved October 3, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "Vanderbilt vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 8, 2011. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ "AJ McCarron has career day as Alabama shuts out Vanderbilt". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 8, 2011. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ a b c d Zenor, John (October 8, 2011). "McCarron passes No. 2 Alabama past Vandy". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Associated Press. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e "Vanderbilt vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 8, 2011. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Vanderbilt vs Alabama: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 8, 2011. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ "Football heads to Mississippi to face Rebels". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 10, 2011. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ a b "Alabama vs Ole Miss: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 15, 2011. Retrieved October 15, 2011.
- ^ a b "Alabama ousts Mississippi as Trent Richardson rumbles for four TDs". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 15, 2011. Retrieved October 15, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f g h "Alabama vs Ole Miss: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 15, 2011. Retrieved October 15, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "Alabama vs Ole Miss: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 15, 2011. Retrieved October 15, 2011.
- ^ "SEC Football Players Of The Week for games of October 15". SECdigitalnetwork.com. Retrieved October 17, 2011.
- ^ "Football to host rival Tennessee this weekend". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 17, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Tennessee vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 22, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ Zenor, John (October 21, 2011). "No. 2 Alabama heavily favored over rival Tennessee". The Anniston Star. AnnistonStar.com. Associated Press. Archived from the original on April 5, 2012. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama breaks halftime tie, goes on to pound Tennessee". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 22, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ Strange, Mike (October 22, 2011). "Halftime: Tennessee 6, Alabama 6". Knoxville News Sentinel. GoVolsXtra.com. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e "Tennessee vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 22, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ a b McAlister, Brian (October 24, 2011). "Tennessee can't tackle Trent Richardson (Alabama Play of the Week)". AL.com. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ a b "Tennessee vs Alabama: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 22, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ "Dont'a Hightower named Lott IMPACT Player of the Week". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 24, 2011. Retrieved October 24, 2011.
- ^ "Top ranked matchup set for Tuscaloosa on Saturday". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. October 31, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ a b "LSU vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ "LSU kicks winning field goal in OT for defensive-minded win over Alabama". ESPN.com. Associated Press. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ Bachman, Rachel (October 31, 2011). "Another Game of the Century". The Wall Street Journal. WSJ.com. Retrieved November 4, 2011.[permanent dead link]
- ^ Gould, Izzy (November 5, 2011). "It's finally here! No. 1 LSU visits No. 2 Alabama tonight in football's latest Game of the Century". AL.com. Retrieved November 5, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "LSU vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "LSU vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary" (PDF). LSUSports.net. LSU Athletics Department. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ "LSU vs Alabama: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ "Football heads to Starkville to face Mississippi State". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 7, 2011. Retrieved November 13, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f "Alabama vs Mississippi State: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 12, 2011. Retrieved November 13, 2011.
- ^ a b "Trent Richardson rushes for 127 yards as Alabama rebounds from loss". ESPN.com. Associated Press. November 12, 2011. Retrieved November 13, 2011.
- ^ a b c d "Alabama vs Mississippi State: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 12, 2011. Retrieved November 13, 2011.
- ^ a b "Alabama vs Mississippi State: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 12, 2011. Retrieved November 13, 2011.
- ^ "Football hosts Georgia Southern in home finale". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 14, 2011. Retrieved November 15, 2011.
- ^ a b "Georgia Southern vs Alabama: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 19, 2011. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ a b "Trent Richardson scores 3 TDs to lift Alabama past Georgia Southern". ESPN.com. Associated Press. November 19, 2011. Retrieved November 20, 2011.
- ^ Deas, Tommy (November 19, 2011). "UA defense on its heels most of the game". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved November 20, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Georgia Southern vs Alabama: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 19, 2011. Retrieved November 20, 2011.
- ^ a b Barnidge, Noell (November 19, 2011). "Eagles swept away by Tide". Statesboro Herald. StatesboroHerald.com. Archived from the original on February 3, 2013. Retrieved November 20, 2011.
- ^ a b "Georgia Southern vs Alabama: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 19, 2011. Retrieved November 20, 2011.
- ^ "Football heads to Auburn for Iron Bowl matchup". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 21, 2011. Retrieved November 26, 2011.
- ^ a b c "Alabama vs Auburn: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 26, 2011. Retrieved November 26, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Jr., Don (November 22, 2011). "Crimson Tide never again wants to see or hear 'Never Again'". AL.com. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ Deas, Tommy (November 26, 2011). "Signs remind Alabama of last year's meltdown against Auburn". The Gadsden Times. GadsdenTimes.com. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama stomps Auburn behind Trent Richardson's 203 yards". ESPN.com. Associated Press. November 26, 2011. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f "Alabama vs Auburn: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 26, 2011. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ Long, A. Stacy (November 27, 2011). "McCalebb's TD gave Auburn glimmer of hope". The Decatur Daily. DecaturDaily.com. Archived from the original on May 27, 2012. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (November 26, 2011). "Dee Milliner's pick-6 third of the season for Alabama". AL.com. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ a b "Alabama vs Auburn: Postgame Notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. November 26, 2011. Retrieved November 27, 2011.
- ^ "Alabama BCS National Championship Game notes". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. December 19, 2011. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b "Alabama vs LSU: Scoring Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. January 9, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b c "Alabama's D embarrasses LSU as five FGs, late TD seal national title". ESPN.com. Associated Press. January 9, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b Whiteside, Kelly (January 10, 2012). "Alabama blanks LSU for BCS title". USA Today. USAToday.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b c d e f "Alabama vs LSU: Play-by-Play Summary". RollTide.com. University of Alabama Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. January 9, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b c Carey, Jack (January 10, 2012). "Alabama defense stifles LSU, pitches shutout". USA Today. USAToday.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "Alabama's Shelley redeems kickers in national title rematch with LSU". Sports Illustrated. SI.com. Associated Press. January 9, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ Maisel, Ivan (January 10, 2012). "AJ McCarron displays maturity in win". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Preseason". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 10". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 11". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 13". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Week 15". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings – Postseason". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 NCAA Football Rankings". ESPN.com. Retrieved June 22, 2012.
- ^ Grayson, Wayne (January 10, 2012). "Tide faithful cheer return of national champions". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved January 22, 2012.
- ^ a b "Bama fans celebrate national title". ESPN.com. Associated Press. January 21, 2012. Retrieved January 22, 2012.
- ^ Gribble, Andrew (April 14, 2012). "Trent Richardson, Mark Barron, Dont'a Hightower honored at Walk of Fame ceremony". AL.com. Retrieved April 14, 2012.
- ^ Deas, Tommy (April 13, 2012). "Alabama football team to visit White House Thursday". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved April 13, 2012.
- ^ a b Solomon, Jon (January 10, 2012). "Alabama defensive beatdown is one for the ages". The Birmingham News. AL.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b c d "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Week 20". NCAA.org. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Sacks". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Tackles for loss". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Interceptions". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Passing". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ "2011 Alabama Football Ranking Summary – Receiving". NCAA.org. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (December 4, 2011). "Trent Richardson named Alabama's MVP and joins Mark Barron and Dont'a Hightower as a permanent captain". AL.com. Retrieved January 15, 2012.
- ^ a b c Gould, Izzy (December 5, 2011). "Alabama's Trent Richardson named 2011 All-SEC Offensive Player of the Year". AL.com. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (December 6, 2011). "Alabama places 11 on 2011 Coaches' All-SEC Football Team". AL.com. Retrieved December 6, 2011.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (December 8, 2011). "Cyrus Kouandjio and Vinnie Sunseri named to 2011 Freshman All-SEC Football Team". AL.com. Retrieved December 8, 2011.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (December 7, 2011). "SEC Individual Awards: Alabama's Trent Richardson and Barrett Jones honored". AL.com. Retrieved December 7, 2011.
- ^ "Five finalists named for Heisman". ESPN.com. ESPN.com news services. December 5, 2011. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ "Robert Griffin III wins Heisman Trophy". ESPN.com. Associated Press. December 10, 2011. Retrieved December 10, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e "27 finalists announced for The Home Depot College Football Awards". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on January 22, 2013. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ a b "Tide's Richardson, Jones nab national awards". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. December 9, 2011. Retrieved December 9, 2011.
- ^ a b Gould, Izzy (November 22, 2011). "Alabama linebackers Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw named Butkus Award finalists". AL.com. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Don Jr. (November 29, 2011). "Tide's Dont'a Hightower among four Lott Trophy finalists". AL.com. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ a b "Hightower, Upshaw are Lombardi finalists". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. November 11, 2011. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ "Tide's Jones is All-SEC, awarded Wuerffel Trophy". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. December 7, 2011. Retrieved December 7, 2011.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (January 19, 2012). "Alabama's Barrett Jones to be presented ARA Sportsmanship Award tonight". AL.com. Retrieved January 21, 2012.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (November 17, 2011). "Alabama safety Mark Barron named Bronko Nagurski Trophy finalist". AL.com. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ Kausler, Don Jr. (November 28, 2011). "Alabama assistant coach Sal Sunseri one of five finalists for Frank Broyles Award". AL.com. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ Deas, Tommy (November 22, 2011). "Alabama wins Disney Spirit Award for efforts following storm". The Tuscaloosa News. TuscaloosaNews.com. Retrieved December 7, 2011.
- ^ "AFCA announces 2011 FBS Coaches' All-America Team". AFCA.com. American Football Coaches Association. December 5, 2011. Archived from the original on December 7, 2011. Retrieved December 5, 2011.
- ^ a b "122nd edition of the Walter Camp All-America Team announced". WalterCamp.org. Walter Camp Football Foundation. December 8, 2011. Archived from the original on April 25, 2012. Retrieved December 9, 2011.
- ^ "FWAA names 2011 All-America Team". SportsWriters.net. Football Writers Association of America. December 10, 2011. Retrieved December 10, 2011.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (December 14, 2011). "Alabama places six on Associated Press All-American team". AL.com. Retrieved December 14, 2011.
- Sporting News. aol.sportingnews.com. December 14, 2011. Archived from the originalon January 8, 2012. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ Inabinett, Mark (January 5, 2012). "SEC Football by the Numbers: Alabama has four more consensus All-Americans, South Carolina finally gets its third". AL.com. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ Scalici, Matt (January 13, 2012). "Six Tide players earn Senior Bowl invites". AL.com. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ Scalici, Matt (January 18, 2012). "Brad Smelley accepts Senior Bowl invite". AL.com. Retrieved January 19, 2012.
- ^ "2012 2012 East–West Shrine Game roster". ShrineGame.com. Retrieved January 17, 2012.
- ^ Schlabach, Mark (December 12, 2011). "Jim McElwain in as CSU coach". ESPN.com. Retrieved December 12, 2011.
- ^ "Colorado State coach Jim McElwain arrives in town". Sports Illustrated. SI.com. Associated Press. January 10, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ Low, Chris (January 13, 2012). "Sal Sunseri to run Vols defense". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
- ^ Gould, Izzy (January 18, 2012). "Alabama announces the hires of Doug Nussmeier, Lance Thompson". AL.com. Retrieved January 19, 2012.
- ^ a b "Trent Richardson, Dre Kirkpatrick go pro". ESPN.com. ESPN.com news services. January 12, 2012. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ a b Scalici, Matt (February 7, 2012). "9 Alabama players invited to NFL Scouting Combine". AL.com. Retrieved February 7, 2012.
- ^ "26 players to attend NFL draft". ESPN.com. Associated Press. April 12, 2012. Retrieved April 12, 2012.
- ^ a b Gribble, Andrew (April 26, 2012). "Alabama lands 2 in the top 10 for second straight year, has 4 of 5 invitees selected in 1st round". AL.com. Retrieved April 28, 2012.
- ^ Gribble, Andrew (April 27, 2012). "At last, Courtney Upshaw goes to the Baltimore Ravens with 3rd pick in 2nd round". AL.com. Retrieved April 28, 2012.
- ^ a b Gribble, Andrew (April 28, 2012). "Final roundup: Alabama's Chapman, Menzie, Smelley drafted on final day as Tide sends 8 to NFL". AL.com. Retrieved April 29, 2012.
- ^ a b "Undrafted free-agent deals for all 32 NFL teams". NFL.com. April 29, 2012. Retrieved June 20, 2012.
External links
Media related to 2011 Alabama Crimson Tide football team at Wikimedia Commons