Tide quarterbacks learning new offense

03/16/01

 

TUSCALOOSA - Dennis Franchione said the Alabama defense is "getting better every day," following the Crimson Tide football team's first practice in full pads Thursday.

"They're a little ahead of the offense, which is to be expected," said Franchione, who is three practices into his tenure as Alabama head coach. "Defense is 'react' and offense is 'assignment.' "

Alabama's quarterbacks are focusing on learning a new offense and learning their own assignments, therefore, Franchione said, he's noticed offensive leadership from players such as wide receiver Freddie Milons and tailback Ahmaad Galloway.

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A few players are still struggling with the fast pace of Franchione's practices - for instance, he mentioned linebacker Marvin Constant, who is recovering from a knee injury - but the coach expects the pace to pay dividends.

"There's a challenge there to finish in the face of fatigue at the end of practice," Franchione said. "That's the way the fourth quarter of a football game is. ... As we get into condition, I think this pace will help us in the fourth quarter of some football games."

The Tide practices again Saturday in full pads before returning to the field Monday.

Steve Kirk