The Tide squeeks out the SEC ths year and goes to something like the Fiesta Bowl or something. Nest year (2009) I believe the tradition will truly return. Even without and almamater head coach.
I just bought my mom an alabama gnome! Check it out, I found this site that sells ncaa garden gnomes: http://www.gnomefrenzy.com/university-of-alabama-garden-gnome.html
Is Notre Dame playing teams as strong as Bama will face this year? LSU, Arkansas, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida State and Auburn represent a pretty formitable line up. Not to mention Vandy or the road ( which could be an upset )...
Regardless of who wins more, Notre Dame or Alabama... the bottom line is Bama's wins in the tough SEC will be far more impressive than Notre Dame.... and I like Bama's chances of winning a National Championship over the next 3-4 years a lot better than ND.
Circle 2009.... a short two years away... Bama will Rock while Notre Dame will be looking for another coach.