Nick Saban pleased with Alabama's consistency during first half

Halftime in Tuscaloosa and the Crimson Tide are rolling. Alabama has been able to score in all three phases of the games, having three offensive touchdowns, one defensive, and another on special teams. Head coach Nick Saban has seen his team bounce back in a big way, having a 35-7 lead over Louisiana-Monroe.

Heading into the locker room, Saban provided his thoughts on how his team was playing. The one thing he was happy with was the consistency Alabama was playing with. However, the head coach recognized areas both his offense and defense can improve going forward.

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“I think consistency,” Saban said. “We played offense early. I think it was great we got the two-minute drive before the half. But, there was a time there where we sputtered a little bit on offense. Defensively, they’re tightening the box up and just kind of running the ball, trying to shrink up the game. Need to play the run a little better.”

ULM has 58 rushing yards heading into the break. While that may not seem like the biggest number, Alabama has just 51. If the Warhawks are outplaying the Crimson Tide anywhere, it’s on the ground. Saban will look to change those numbers during the second half.

Nick Saban hoping Alabama says team is judged on program’s expectations

Alabama is coming off a scare, escaping out of Austin with a win over Texas. They are now back at Bryant Denny Stadium, having another nonconference showdown against Louisana-Monroe. Saban is looking for his team to improve, wanting to play to their full potential.

The standard at Alabama is different, there’s no doubt about it. Saban said his players are being judged based on those expectations, especially on a game such as Saturday. He wants all of his players to “play to the best of their ability.”

“I think the team is being judged by the standard of being one of the best programs in the country, being one of the best teams in the country. But each individual player is being judged on a level of consistency that he can play with. So, it benefits everybody to play to the best of their ability and reach their full potential.”

Looking at a little bigger picture than just on Saturday — Saban has discussed the high expectations for the program. He dubbed last season a “rebuilding year” despite reaching the national championship. It’s true that seeing the Crimson Tide struggle in early nonconference matchups, even on the road, can lead to questions.