Listen to “Outbreak Alabama: Stories from a Pandemic,” above.
Today, we hear from AL.com’s Matt Scalici, a longtime sports producer, previously covering high school football recruiting as well as the Alabama football beat and now managing our sports video content.
Nick Saban first made public comments about the pandemic in March, releasing a PSA about coronavirus safety measures fans can take, like hand-washing and social distancing. The program’s annual spring practice and scrimmage were canceled, casting doubt over the future of any college football season in 2020. And just last week, a masked Saban appeared in a new PSA, urging fans to wear masks and continue their part to fight the virus.
Can a powerful voice like Nick Saban’s make a difference?
Matt and I talk about Saban’s new role as coronavirus safety influencer, how he thinks fans might respond to the coach and if he foresees a college football season actually kicking off this fall.
“Outbreak Alabama” will release two or three episodes per week, chronicling the experiences of those directly impacted by COVID-19′s spread, including health care professionals, business owners, city leaders, artists, AL.com reporters and many others.
If you or anyone you know is affected by the coronavirus and want to share your story, please email bflanagan@al.com. For all of our coverage on the outbreak and how it continues to impact Alabama, visit AL.com/coronavirus.
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More from Outbreak Alabama:
‘Astonishing’ disparities in the rural South
Where is the nursing home data?
Is it a mistake to reopen now?
Whiter Thomas on staying creative during the pandemic
Our successes and failures so far
Is it really time to reopen Alabama?
A coronavirus survivor’s message to the rest of us
Ivey not ready to reopen just yet
Crime in the age of coronavirus
What role do our churches play?
Walt Maddox on leading Tuscaloosa through coronavirus
Coronavirus’ early impact on musicians