In Nick Saban's 3-4 defense, the Mike is the boss. He's in charge, directing traffic, calling signals, audibles and making sure players line up correctly. It's a critical part of a complex defense, so much that Saban has only had one true starter at Mike during his tenure at Alabama. McClain held the role for three years, taking it as a freshman in 2007. But when McClain passed up his final year of college eligibility to enter the NFL draft, Hightower became the quarterback of Alabama's defense. "He's done a good job making calls," Saban said. "He doesn't make a lot of errors out there in a new role. He had a good understanding of what we're doing, so we're really pleased with him." "It's kind of tough duty trying to replace Rolando," Hightower said. "He was such a great player, and he knew the defense so perfect. It's been a tough journey, but I feel so comfortable in it now. I feel like I've played Mike since I've been here." In a linebacking corps where players are still being shuffled less than two weeks before the Sept. 4 season opener against San Jose State, only Hightower is clearly secure. While Courtney Upshaw figures to be the "Jack," in Alabama's base defense, Chris Jordan, Nico Johnson, Jerrell Harris and other players are still vying to be in the rotation in some form.
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