McClain plays better on field than behind remote control

By Ken Rogers

Published: October 6, 2009

Rolando McClain walked into the interview room wearing a Viking helmet.

This was Monday before the Brett Favre vs. Green Bay Packers game, so I assumed he was a Viking or a Favre fan.

Nope.

“I lost a bet,” Alabama’s middle linebacker admitted. “I was playing NCAA Football last night and got beat. Somebody won this at the fair in Decatur and gave it to me. I had to wear it.”

McClain is the subject of my story Wednesday in the Dothan Eagle.

Now a junior, the 6-foot-4, 258-pound is an enormous middle linebacker. He’s 6-foot-4, 258 pounds. He has nine percent body fat. This summer he ran the 40 in 4.59 and 4.63. He’s a physical freak.

But he’s also a smart football player.

“A lot of guys have size, a lot of guys have speed but when you put it all together and you can watch film and dissect plays and know what runs they have out of each formation, it makes you a lot better,” McClain said.

“I just have to give all the credit to coach Saban. He’s made me what I am. He’s pushed me to be a better player and I thank him for it.”