Tide needs full house against Miss. State

'Bama goes for six straight wins in SEC

   On Saturday, Alabama faces its next NCAA elimination game takes place in Coleman Coliseum at 1:30. It can be seen on the SEC Network for those who are unable to attend. Saturday is a big game. I've said before that Alabama lives on the razor's edge as far as making the NCAA field. If you have been reading the various bracketology websites, you know the Tide has projected itself into the Big Dance. That changes from day to day. A loss to Mississippi State would eliminate the Tide, not just from the field, but would make it difficult of making it to the Tournament. A State win would be considered a bad loss for the Tide. Ms. State's has unimpressive RPI of 167. It will take a remarkable run if the Crimson doesn't take care of business. I'd hate to think the Tide needs a win over Kentucky on the road to make the NCAA. 



     There is no reason to believe that the Tide won't beat Mississippi State. The Tide is playing with supreme confidence. State is only 11-14, but they haven't quit. They ruined Vanderbilt's NCAA chance at making the NCAA Tournament. I'm surprised at the State's record this season. Their talent is better than 11 wins.The Bulldogs have five excellent players. Their bench is a little suspect, and they are learning a new system. Why a team like  Alabama can adjust, and State can't remain a mystery. I believe it is the personality of the opposing coaches.  There is not a significant talent gap between the two teams. 

   I know that Alabama would love to have Gavin Ware, Malik Newman, Quinndarry Weatherspoon, Craig Sword, and a couple of other players. State has five starters essentially in double figures scoring. Alabama is favored by six. That's not a lot for a passion filled road team. I'm picking Alabama by 8. But do not take this game for granted. 

    The bigger story is that Alabama is even in the discussion for making the NCAA field. When the season started the media placed the Tide at 13th place in the SEC. What Alabama has done this season is perhaps the most remarkable story in NCAA basketball. Three big names were hired for SEC coaching jobs at the end of last season. Only Avery Johnson has succeeded in having a chance to be in the NCAA. All three teams are rebuilding. Bama is succeeding while rebuilding or would it more appropriate to say he has rebuilt Alabama? As the Coach said, "Buckle up." The man gave us a warning.