Great Depths to Alabama Secrecy

There is less secrecy involved in national security papers than the Alabama depth chart, which was finally released Tuesday.

And like a sensitive government document made public, the most compelling information is missing, anyway.

The word “OR” is listed in bold print, underlined and capital letters between Andrew Zow and Tyler Watts at quarterback.

First-year Coach Dennis Franchione referred to his players studying “the Book of Fran,” during a news conference, but the book on Fran is that he holds his cards close to the vest.

Especially with his quarterbacks.

“We do have a plan going in, but I’m not saying what it is,” he said. “The beauty of our offense is that there are things Andrew can do and things Tyler can do. We will play to their strengths.

“I think it is pretty likely they’ll both play, but I don’t want to say with certainty, because sometimes the game dictates the changes you make more than your plan does.”

Zow, a senior, holds school records for career attempts and completions, but his statistics have gotten worse every year. Last season, he completed fewer than 50% of his passes and had 14 interceptions and only six touchdowns.

Watts, a junior, is adept at running the option, but his arm strength is suspect.

“Both are in the same boat, where they’ve been for too long,” Franchione said. “Somebody’s got to be deeper in the boat or something.”

Freshman Brodie Croyle might have to sink or swim. Croyle, who set Alabama prep records with 9,323 passing yards and 105 touchdowns, is not listed on the depth chart and Franchione wants him to redshirt.

But if Zow and Watts fail and a full stadium of Crimson Tide fans are restless, don’t be surprised to see the new coach call for Croyle.

“We wouldn’t waste a year for him on a few plays,” Franchione said. “If we’re going to play him, we’ve got to play him.”

*

Mike McCloskey is not only the shortest of five freshman linemen. He also was the least heavily recruited.

But UCLA Coach Bob Toledo said the 6-foot-5 McCloskey will be the first called upon should injuries require the services of a freshman.

“Mike has progressed nicely,” he said.

McCloskey, from Laguna Hills High, turned down an appointment to the Air Force Academy to attend UCLA, which did not offer him a scholarship until the last minute.