Being a Bama Fan
Being a Bama fan? It sucks. “Fear the Thumb”, eh? Yes, fear the thumb indeed. Five in a row for the mighty Tigers. I suspect we’ll be fearing many more digits in the years to come. In fact, I suspect Bama will never return to even a shadow of its former glory and that Tennessee, Auburn, and LSU will dominate the Tide for the remainder of my adult life. There was a time that being a Red Sox fan was the portion of my life that allowed me to wallow in self pity. Not to be outdone, the Crimson Tide has now assumed that position of ignominy. Way to go! Don’t want me getting too cocky, do we?
To all Auburn fans: Congratulations! The torch has been passed to you. You now have the greatest team in the fine state of Alabama. The torch was probably passed during Iron Bowl 1982, but I’ve just now come to realize it. I actually pull for Auburn when they’re not playing the Tide, and I’m proud that the state is well represented by at least one team. Enjoy it while it lasts. Glory is such a fleeting thing. Who knows? Maybe my grandchildren will live to see the day that Alabama takes the torch back. I’ve lost hope for it happening in my life time. Quite possibly Alabama isn’t even the second best team in the state any longer. Sad.
I’ve heard lots of talk about firing the coaching staff. My opinion? I don’t think Mike Shula, Dave Rader, or Joe Kines should be fired. Maybe there should be some changes elsewhere, but I think those guys have done a decent job. Decent enough that they shouldn’t be fired. The team showed significant offensive improvements over the last two weeks. For that alone I think the coaching staff should retain their jobs. I say all this despite the fact that I have been seen spewing hatred in their directions during the recent games. Can’t hold what I say in the heat of the moment against me. Or maybe you can, but I’m not going to hold it against myself too much. Feel free to weigh in with your opinion on the coaching staff with a comment. Just please keep your comments clean, even though you might not want to, ok?
Ah well, I guess it is only a football game after all. Not sure why it means so much to us here in Alabama. No sense trying to figure it out. Just take the thumb like a man and move on with your life.
Dejectedly yours,
hawgdaddy
November 19th, 2006 at 11:57 pm
I think the coaching staff should get at least part of next year to redeem theirselves. A year of experience for a young football team can make a big difference. The expectations will be high next year and the fans could call for Shula’s head rather quickly.
November 19th, 2006 at 11:59 pm
P.S. You need to Fall back an hour.
November 20th, 2006 at 12:41 am
Yeah, I think Shula will be around for at least another year. But next year Bama will have to become competitive at least in the conference if not on the national level. My pessimistic side tells me (and all who will listen) that they won’t be good ever again, but I think they have shown tons of talent at times this year. My secret, inner, optimistic side tells me that next year they’ll be awesome and Shula will redeem himself. It’ll be interesting to see as always.
On a brighter note, the basketball team is showing a lot of promise so far.
Yep, I need to change the time. I’ve just been too lazy to mess with it. I guess since someone else noticed, I’ll fix it.
hawgdaddy
November 21st, 2006 at 4:04 pm
Ok…well…based on what I’m hearing, I think Shula is probably not going to be here next year. If he is fired, I hope it is done in an honorable fashion. I really despise all the senseless hatred being spewed all over internet forums about the poor guy. I mean, does anyone think he tried to lose? Do you think he hates Alabama? No, he loves the school and he wants to win. I’m just not sure he has what it takes to get that done. Is that any reason to threaten the guy’s life and limb? Nope. That’s stupid and unworthy of an Alabama fan. I mean c’mon, I don’t have what it takes either. Does that make me the scum of the earth? (Don’t even say it, Insane…) What’s wrong with saying, “Listen Mike, thanks for being here for us through the tough years and for giving it your best shot, but you’re just not cut out for this job. Good luck in whatever you choose to do now, and we all wish you the best.”?
If we do get a new coach at Bama, I want them to go find a top-tier guy, pay whatever it takes, and get someone that is going to be loyal to the school and not use it as a stepping stone to the NFL or Texas A&M. Someone who’s proven, classy, and looking for a place to settle down and make a career of it. That person may not exist, but it’s nice to dream. It’s time the program had some stability. It’s really time that Alabama once again takes its traditional place at the top level of the sport along with the Notre Dames, Ohio States, and Michigans of the world. And it’s time they beat Auburn and Tennessee again.
hawgdaddy