Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide aren’t leaving anything to chance. With just three days left for the ultimate Rose Bowl showdown, they’re making sure to take precautionary measures for the sign-stealing scandal. It’s not that Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan Wolverines would do such a thing, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.  

The Alabama HC is aware of the challenge that lies ahead when they face the unbeaten Michigan in their New Year’s clash. And they’re putting some film restrictions to stay on the safe side. Would this change in the system be for the better or worse?

Alabama tightens film restriction ahead of the Rose Bowl

With Michigan’s history tainted by the sign-stealing scandal, Nick Saban and Alabama have now imposed restrictions on accessing film anywhere, at least before the bowl game. This change was declared during their practice schedule in Tuscaloosa. As per what several players said, they’re not allowed to access their iPads for film from anywhere other than in a collective meeting room. 

OL Tyler Booker said of the change, “We just have a different location to watch the film. But we’re still watching the films as we would for a normal game.” There could be positive things about this film restriction as OT JC Latham pointed out, “If this was during the (regular) season as soon as I get in my car I can watch the film. As soon as I get off the practice field I can watch it, when I’m at home, I can watch it but obviously I can’t. So when you get a chance to sit down in the meeting room and turn on the tape you’re really paying attention to every detail ten times more because you know you can’t do it later… It’s just being more intricate, being more cautious.“

Alabama recognizes Michigan’s field talents 

Putting the sign-stealing scandal aside, Alabama players look at the Wolverines with high respect as a worthy contender who spectacularly completed the season. They know better that what happens on the field is going to decide the result of the game. WR Isaiah Bond said, “We’re still going to watch the film, still going to get the hours in. At the end of the day, they’re still going to have to go on the field and play us. All the stealing signs — you could know my route but you still have to guard me. That’s my input on that.“

READ MORE: Jim Harbaugh Finally Breaks Silence on LA Chargers Rumors During His Visit to ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’

Nick Saban also knows what kind of team they’re up against. He had said, “Michigan is a really good team, and they got some really good skill guys. They present a lot of challenges based on formations, and they do a good job on defense.” Every interest is pointing towards the New Year’s Rose Bowl game between these two playoff contenders. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Beyond The Gridiron – A Quick Look at the Top College Football Power Couples