Tide hooked 'em

Of all the headlines, I think that one's my favorite. Undisputed. Crimson Title. Finishing Strong.

It wasn't as pretty as the SEC Championship game. There was probably no way that could be repeated, especially with 32 days off. What I hate is that we had to listen to another version of the Tim Tebow Show--pre-game, during the game, and post-game. Only the second verse was the Colt McCoy Show and a continuation of the love-fest with Texas. I had hoped we could take care of that on the field with Colt McCoy as their quarterback. We will forever wonder if he could have reentered the game or whether the decision to remain on the sidelines was simply to preserve his potential NFL career. I wonder where the truth lies...

We didn't hear about Alabama's football history or see highlights of Alabama's season or of individual players during the pre-game hype. During the game we only heard what Texas needed to do to stay in the game or to get back in the game not what Alabama needed to do to seal the deal.

What we heard were excuses. Even to the point of the commentators saying that Texas' defense was falling apart because their starting quarterback had taken a hit to the shoulder. Why is the defense dependent on the quarterback? When did that happen? The defense that allowed an average of only 62 yards per game during the season gave up 205 yards in the national championship game. Hmmm...

McElroy, I'm sure, felt frustrated being called a game manager. There are worse things. He needs to remember he's in good company. Jay Barker. Steadman Shealy. Both won national championships attempting only a few passes and throwing for less than 100 yards. Big deal. And he was playing injured. Cracked ribs. And no media blitz or excuses concerning his performance. He goes out a winner.

I wish this game had been more black and white than beige. But there were several games during this season that had to be won ugly. Just as other times, Coach Saban said, "I had to stand up on a chair and say this is a 60-minute game."

But, you know what? We won. 37-21. It doesn't have to be pretty. In fact, I don't think we'd know how to react to a pretty win. But it sure does feel good. I'm hoping I can finally let go of some of the tension I've been holding in my neck and shoulders. Being a fan is hard work. I'm going to try to relax and enjoy this and not micro-analyze it. Maybe. Well, I said try.

Alabama-National Champions 2009. RTR!