Colorado, Alabama seek Independence

SHREVEPORT, La. – Colorado is glad to be at the Independence Bowl, or in any postseason game, after winning its final game to become bowl-eligible. Alabama couldn’t be faulted for dreaming of much brighter lights until dropping its last four games of the season.

“We were 6-2. We felt like we could accomplish something special,” said Alabama wide receiver DJ Hall, whose team is making its second consecutive Independence Bowl appearance. “Things didn’t turn out the way we wanted, but everything happens for a reason so we ended up in Shreveport and we’re going to make the best of it.”

Both teams enter today’s game at 6-6. When the contest ends, either the Buffaloes will have consecutive losing seasons for the first time in 22 years or the Tide will have suffered the same fate for the first time since 1957.

“You definitely have some watershed moments. Whoever wins this game has a winning record. That would mean something and it gives you momentum going into the off-season,” Colorado coach Dan Hawkins said.

Alabama coach Nick Saban, completing his first year at Tuscaloosa after two years with the Miami Dolphins, said today’s game will be a defining moment for each of his players – though each would have to search themselves for the reason why.

Seniors are adding to an Alabama legacy that boasts 21 Southeastern Conference championships but none since 1999; underclassmen are working to rebuild the storied program.

“Everybody has a different reason for this being a really important game. Nobody benefits unless they play real well,” Saban said.