TUSCALOOSA — Alabama senior defensive end Bobby Greenwood has spent the past 13 weeks flinging his body at large offensive linemen.

Pitchers and catchers don’t receive the same amenities as a quarterback and his bevy of assistants do when it comes to relaying information.

Virtually every college football season has a theme.

Alabama coach Nick Saban said Monday things are looking “up” for his top-ranked Crimson Tide. During this open week before the Iron Bowl, the emphasis will be on players getting “caught up, rested up and healed up.”

For Auburn, it’s simply been the “dead zone.”

The opportunities were more abundant Saturday, more within fingertips reach, than they have been throughout this season of blown chances and unmet expectations.

First, let’s just get something out of the way: There’s no such thing as moral victories.

Auburn’s players call him “Super Mario,” a gimme of a nickname for the Tigers’ sophomore tailback.