TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Alabama's offensive line has helped pave
the way for the Crimson Tide's fast start.

Left tackle Andre Smith said the linemen have taken the approach
that they would lead the team and be more physical.

The second-ranked Tide has the Southeastern Conference's top
rushing offense.

It's no surprise the line has been a strength of the team. Smith
won the SEC's Jacobs Blocking Trophy as a sophomore for the
league's top blocker. Center Antoine Caldwell was named a permanent
team captain after last season and is one of the Tide's most vocal
leaders.

And the starting five has a combined 109 career starts going
into Saturday's game with Kentucky.

Smith said the linemen also got considerably stronger during the
offseason.