The Wiz of Odds

Political Football in Alabama

If Tim James, Republican candidate for governor in Alabama, wasn't a divisive figure leading to the June 1 primary (see video above), he became one Friday.

James, in a neck-and-neck battle with Bradley Byrne for the nomination, denied that if elected, he would cut the annual $4.1 million salary of Nick Saban or fire the Crimson Tide coach.

"Dispelling another untruth from the Byrne camp: I will neither be firing nor cutting Coach Saban's salary if elected," read a post on James' Twitter page.

The controversy started in April, when James reportedly joked about cutting Saban's salary during a meeting with the editorial board of the Crimson White, Alabama's student newspaper.

"It was kind of an off-handed remark" James made as he walked up the office stairs with the newspaper's staff members, former managing editor Alan Blinder told the Birmingham News.

Make Way for the Nick Saban Statue

It's official. Nick Saban has reached legendary status.

Work has started on a bronze statue of the Alabama coach, and officials are hoping to have the project completed by April 17, the date of the spring game.

Saban's wife, Terry, is among several people who will have input on the statue's appearance, according to Corey Beltz, project manager for the company that is handling the project.

"We are sculpting clay right now and we have pretty good direction on what they want for the look of it," Beltz said.

It Pays to Be a Student Leader at Alabama

Five Alabama students, including four members of the Student Government Association, had a trip to Pasadena paid for in violation of spending rules, the student newspaper Crimson White reported.

The students traveled to California to cook and serve food at the Union Station Homeless Services Adult Center on Jan. 6, the day before the Bowl Championship Series title game. Student leaders from Texas also took part.

The group spent $4,742.95 for the trip, which included airfare, hotel, a rental van and food stipends. Tickets to the BCS title game were an out-of-pocket expense.

The Hottest-Selling T-Shirt in Alabama

At least one entrepreneur is already cashing in on the fall of Tim Tebow in Saturday's Southeastern Conference championship game. Thanks to the Midwest Correspondent.

Best Evidence to Date

Take a look at this image of Patrick Peterson's interception against Alabama. It clearly shows the Louisiana State cornerback with both feet inbounds. Thanks to Gary Hicks.

Another Missed Call in the LSU-Alabama Game

Watch Alabama defensive tackle Marcell Dareus get away with a facemask on Louisiana State guard Lyle Hitt in the closing minutes of Saturday's game.

No wonder Nick Saban is standing up for Southeastern Conference officials!