Alabama head coach Wallace Wade entered the 1930 season as a lame duck. Frustrated by fan criticism over three somewhat disappointing seasons after delivering two straight undefeated teams in 1925 and 1926, Wade handed in his resignation in the offseason but agreed to coach the team for one final season. His motivation was clear.
John Henry Suther, senior halfback for the Crimson Tide, recalled: “He called a team meeting before our first game and gave the most emotional talk I’ve ever heard. ‘Gentlemen,’ Coach Wade said, ‘I’m gonna win this damn Southern Intercollegiate Conference championship this season, and if you want to be a part of it, you can.