Alabama's mantra: Don't 'settle' for 10 wins again

By John Zenor

Associated Press

Published: Friday, April 6 2012 10:10 a.m. MDT

Alabama coach Nick Saban talks with players during spring NCAA college football practice, Monday, April 2, 2012, in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

The Tuscaloosa News, Michelle Lepianka Carter, Associated Press

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Summary

Alabama's mantra this spring might well be, let's not have another 2010.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama's mantra this spring might well be, let's not have another 2010.

That's when the Crimson Tide followed up a national title with a 10-3 season regarded by some as an underachievement. Now, Alabama is coming off its second national championship in three years and once again is a potential repeat contender.

Linebacker Nico Johnson says the Tide enters every season with championship expectations.o When it doesn't happen, Johnson says "it's kind of depressing."

Alabama coach Nick Saban says the attitude and character of this team has been different "in a good way" from 2010.

Quarterback AJ McCarron says that team two years ago lacked leadership.

Both teams had to replace an abundance of talent, especially on defense.

Alabama is losing five players projected as likely NFL first-round draft picks.

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