Crimson Red Sports

While most were focused on the physical domination of Arkansas, our superior training and condtioning, or the gawdy score, something else caught my eye Saturday. Our head coach, who the cynics are always accusing of exploiting players, making them false promises, etc., showed his true heart. In the forth quarter, senior RB Ben Howell was put in the game. He was described as a practice squad player. In his whole career he had only 5 carries for 18 yards. With a talent like Drake as a 4th or 5th string RB there was nothing to be gained by playing Ben Howell. But coach put him in. I believe he put him in because he worked hard and deserved to be part of this epic win. I believe he put him in because he rewards hard work and dedication, and that doesn't apply only to 5 star recruits. I believe he put him in because he understands how much it means to the bench guys to play a down for the Crimson Tide.

Congrats to Mr. Howell, with 6 carries and 11yrds on the day. And thanks to coach for looking down the bench to reward the guys who make sure the starters are ready every week. For me, this was the most memorable moment of a very memorable game.

Roll Tide

I was wondering who that guy was.  #+

Ben Howell, eh? 

"Benny, Benny, Benny..."

I was gonna go there, but i was thinking it.

He saw some playing time last year. I don't remember which game, maybe the NCG, or the Iron Bowl when the score was out of hand?

 #+ #+ #+   Pratice squad

word ! 

:lol:

Maybe I was thinking of the spring game. ???

Great post.  I nticed that several walk ons got playing time, including at least one other senior.  These guys work  hard but have never lettered.  Here's hoping that they get enough plays the rest of this season to get the A they have worked so hard for! 

What do they have to do to get the letter?  Play in a certain number of games?

NOt sure what is required to letter.  But when I look Howell up on the official team roster he is listed as having been on the squad (Sq) last year and as a senior.  I may be jumping to conclusions but when I see other seniors with 3L i think that means they have lettered 3 times.  Of course, he probably DOES have 2 National Championship rings!  So life ain't all bad!  ;D

I believe you are right about the 2L 3L SQ, etc. on the roster.  I've always wondered exactly what it took to get that L.

Maybe I was thinking of Dixie Howell. ???

He had five carries in 2010.
http://alabama.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=423967

My proudest moment was when CNS went to center of the field and shook hands with John L. and told him what a great team he has now. RTR!

Maybe against Mich St.?  ???

I just remember a white guy RB. But before someone starts that racist stuff, I assure you that some of my best friends are white guys.