Weather causes some headaches for Crimson Tide

DALLAS -- Due to the inclement weather in Birmingham and other areas of Alabama, traveling around the state became an issue and caused some of Alabama's players to have their flights rerouted.

Players like starting safety Eddie Jackson and others who flew home for the Tide's Christmas break were delayed in returning to Tuscaloosa.

But as of Saturday, Tide coach Nick Saban all of Alabama's players are accounted for.

"Certainly was a difficult circumstance last night (Friday)," Saban said Saturday during his arrival news conference. "But we didn't have an issue, at least with the group that came with us which was probably 90 percent of the guys.

"Some of the guys from this part of the country and out West are meeting us here. I have not heard of any issues that we have with any of those guys at this point."

Now that the Crimson Tide is the lone star state, Saban said it's time to refocus on the goal.

Alabama (12-1) and Michigan State (12-1) will meet in the Cotton Bowl on New Year's Eve in Cowboy Stadium.

Alabama is currently a nine-point favorite, according to VegasInsider.com.

But no matter how one looks at the matchup, Saban said this will be a challenging game for the Tide.

"It's all about how bad you want something because it's certainly going to be a difficult game, a tough game," Saban said. "I think you have to prepare for that and have the right mindset in terms of what your expectation is for when the game starts and what kind of game it's going to be."

In terms of mindset, Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland noticed a good level of focus from his teammates on the trip from Alabama to Texas.

"It's time to get it now. All the playtime is over with," Ragland said. "It's all about being focused on Michigan State, and coming out and practicing hard and preparing the right way the whole week. It's all about getting it done now."

For Tide running back and Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry getting back on track is simple. Since returning from New York, Henry hasn't spoken about the Heisman or any individual awards. During his time with reporters on Saturday, the soft-spoken Henry had a laser focus.

"Everybody knows what's at stake, everybody knows what we have to do, so we have to come in at practice and get ready to play regardless," Henry said.

Contact Anniston Star Sports Writer Marq Burnett at mburnett@annistonstar.com. On Twitter:@Marq_Burnett.

This story was originally published December 26, 2015 at 5:09 PM with the headline "Weather causes some headaches for Crimson Tide ."