Alabama Football Celebrates With a Parade

It was perfect.

The weather saw temperatures reach into the 60's and sunny skies watched over the Crimson Tide nation as tens of thousands flocked to Tuscaloosa to get a glimpse of the national champions.  Unlike in years past there were no backdrops of a half-empty stadium, just fans stuffed into the area in front of the north end zone. And those who couldn't grab a spot, took up a spot on the hills in front of the fraternity houses and campus buildings across the street.  From those donned in their favorite t-shirt to the ones decked out in their finest suit-this was a celebration.

That was the scene Saturday afternoon in front of Bryant Denny Stadium as coaches and players made their way down University Boulevard to an awaiting welcome at the walk of champions. Coaches and players alike made the stroll down the long walkway, etched with reminders of the storied tradition of Alabama Football, and as the recovering John Fulton was helped to his place atop the steps, the walkway disappeared.

The trophies were present and speeches were made including ones from President Judy Bonner, Athletic Director Mal Moore, head Coach Nick Saban and Barrett Jones. Confetti shot up in the air, raining down on the Crimson Faithful and a highlight film played as the festivities came to an end outside the stadium and fans rushed to take their walk through Bryant Denny.

I stood on one of the podiums reserved for the media members starring at the crowd that stood behind me and I thought to myself, this is what a celebration should be.  In January of 2010, as a student, I remembered a cold and wet afternoon then watching from my computer screen when I was living in Montana just last January and it just didn't feel the same.

This, was perfect.