Alabama ready for SEC opener

By Staff
After two weeks of light competition, Alabama will get its first taste of Southeastern Conference competition today as it hosts Arkansas.
The Crimson Tide is ranked third in the nation while the Razorbacks are coming off a heart-breaking loss to Georgia. Both teams are looking to make a statement in this nationally televised game.
Alabama (3-0) is hoping to have injured players Julio Jones and Roy Upchurch back for this crucial game. Both were injured in game against Florida International and missed last week's game against North Texas.
They returned to contact practice earlier this week and head coach Nick Saban has been pleased with what he has seen.
"If they can continue with that kind of progress, I would hope they would be able to participate in the game," Saban said during his weekly teleconference.
Saban has more to worry about this week than his star receiver and starting running back. The Tide defense will have to contend with Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallet, who has completed 38-of-61 pass attempts for 717 yards and six touchdowns.
Alabama should not have too much trouble containing Mallett. The Crimson Tide has the third-ranked defense in the nation, allowing and average of 185.3 yards per game.
The offense should also help out by keeping Mallett on the sidelines. Alabama has averaged 33:08 in time of possession through the first three games of the season.