For those who are not aware, this is exactly what Saban does and Bear Bryant did before him. Every year Alabama brings in a special forces drill sergeant and puts his players through a very punishing work-out program. They are in top mental and physical shape before official practice even begins.The players who can hack it will be the toughest players in the country. It is no accident that Alabama has won so many National Championships.I am sure that Helfrich's players were not ever close to being in shape.