[Tuck4Bama]

Alabama sophomore earns Saban's trust

TUSCALOOSA - The philosophy, simplistic as it may seem, may actually have some merit.

When it comes to Alabama's running attack, it goes something like this: Speedster Terry Grant, power back Glen Coffee and - the newcomer to the equation - Roy Upchurch.

"We joke about it on the sidelines," Upchurch said. "T stretches 'em out, Glen beat 'em up and then, while they're soft, I come in and run by them and get what I can."

Given that Alabama's only used that approach once this season - and even then on a limited basis - that may be more a window to the future than a glimpse of the past.

But the future looks sweet to Upchurch right now.

He's won the trust of coach Nick Saban and now he's playing Florida State on Saturday in Jacksonville, Fla.

The only thing that would be better? Playing the Seminoles on campus at Doak Campbell Stadium in Upchurch's hometown of Tallahassee.

"I kind of do (wish the game was in Tallahassee)," Upchurch said, "but it's right down the street."

Upchurch isn't complaining, though.

Upchurch eager to hit field vs. FSU- al.com

[Stoney]

Let's hope this young man has a banner day on Saturday.