Today's college football game between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and Penn State Nittany Lions will be more than just a game between two schools steeped in college football history and tradition. The respect the two schools have for each other off the field is directly related to the respect of its coaches, Paul Bryant and Joe Paterno, i.e. the Bear and JoePa, and now Nick Saban and the respect they have/had for each other.
Today, the two teams, universities, and cities meet at a time of great distress. Tuscaloosa is rebuilding from a devastating tornado on April 27th while State College and surrounding areas are currently dealing with flooding from Tropical Storm Lee. People in need of relief physically, mentally and emotionally will come together for a much-needed respite.
Several of the Kent State players helped build houses in Tuscaloosa and the Alabama family displayed their gratitude and respect when hosting Coach Saban's alma mater, Kent State, by standing and applauding the football team when they took the field last Saturday. This is what Coach Bryant called "class". It prompted a letter from Kent State's Director of Athletics this week.
With that said, let's play ball. Roll Tide!
This week's sports columnists:
Iron Bowl could take a lesson in mutual respect from Alabama vs Penn State - Kevin Scarbinsky
Bama, Penn State two storied programs - Tommy Deas
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