Alabama vs. Florida State preview

If you want me to post your prediction, drop me a comment by 3:30 CT!
Our predictions:
David: Alabama 35 Florida State 21
Joe: Alabama 14 Florida State 7
Matt: Alabama 25 Florida State 17
Dad: Alabama 20 Florida State 17

Bama's RB rotation a three man show - Sporting News

Bobby, 'Bama and the Bear Paul Newberry Associated Press

Several Bama players grew up rooting for FSU Dothan Eagle

Big wins outside the SEC far between Cecil Hurt Tuscaloosa News

Tuscaloosa News staff picks

ESPNU Notebook:

Mention given to terry Grant as the "top rookie running back":
Grant (5-10, 188) is a pint-sized speedster in the mold of former Florida State star and current Falcons running back Warrick Dunn. New offensive coordinator Major Applewhite likes to spread it out with a lot of three- and four-receiver sets, which result in lots of creases for his rookie back to exploit. The system obviously agrees with Grant, who has burst onto the scene with 120.8 yards per game.

Breaking down Alabama-Florida State
By Bill Curry, ESPN.com
Alabama is a very interesting team. It has the potential to be one of the better teams in the SEC by the last four games of the season -- if not a great team. For Bama to improve, John Parker Wilson has to grow up. He had a number of chances against Georgia but wasn't able to finish the job. On the other hand, he's a really gritty competitor who is willing to put his team on his back. One thing that has mystified me this season is how dominating the Tide's defense looks at times -- sometimes over long stretches -- but at the moment the Tide can least afford it, the D gives up the big play. That's certainly one area concern for Nick Saban's staff. Florida State, on the other hand, certainly is a work in progress. The Noles are breaking in a new staff on offense and they're implementing gradual changes. It might be a full year before we see what the real Florida State looks like.
Alabama has the upper hand in this matchup, especially because of how tournament-tested this team already is. The Tide has had tough, close, physical games against Arkansas and Georgia, which should benefit them later in the season. We're all creatures of habit: If you've been cruising, it's hard to put it in overdrive. If you've been fighting, however, it's second nature. Those are the teams that are the toughest to beat.