The college football season opener between Alabama and Florida State is little more than a month away, but the Crimson Tide already got some tough news before practice even begins. Pre-season All-SEC defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand was arrested and charged with DUI early Saturday morning.
Alabama Coach Nick Saban will decide in the coming days whether Hand will be subjected to disciplinary action. Saban expressed his disappointment and seemed to indicate he will take action, which means Hand could miss the game with FSU.
“This type of behavior is not acceptable, and we are disappointed in Da’Shawn’s actions,” Saban was quoted on AL.com. “We are till gathering information and will evaluate what we need to do in terms of appropriate discipline as we move forward, so better choices and decisions can be made in the future.”
Saban’s comments read like he might make an example of Hand as a way to send a message to Hand and his teammates. With four other defensive teammates on the pre-season All-SEC list, the Tide would have the depth to possibly overcome the absence of Hand.
The Seminoles and Crimson Tide will square off on Saturday, September 2 at the new Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
