Stabler Taking A Leave Of Absence

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Alabama football color analyst Ken
Stabler is taking a leave of absence for the upcoming season.
The university released a statement Friday saying that the
former Crimson Tide and NFL quarterback requested the leave.

"We regret that Kenny will not be part of our broadcast team during the
upcoming season, but accept and understand his decision," said Jim
Carabin, general manager of Crimson Tide Sports Marketing, the
multimedia rights holder for the University of Alabama athletics program
and producer of the Crimson Tide Sports Network. "We are entirely
supportive of Kenny and his family and feel that this is the right thing
for them at this time."

Stabler, who was arrested on a drunken driving charge June 8th in Robertsdale, said matters in his personal life demand his full attention. The latest arrest was at least the third time Stabler has been charged with DUI.

"It is with much regret that I will not be part of Crimson Tide football
broadcasts this coming year," Stabler says, "but there are matters in my
personal life that demand my full attention at this time. I will deeply
miss being part of the Crimson Tide Sports Network team and the
wonderful interaction that I always enjoy with the many Tide fans
throughout the season."

A star quarterback at Alabama in the 1960s, he led the Oakland
Raiders to a Super Bowl title in 1977. He also played for the
Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints during a 15-year NFL career.
Stabler has been the Tide's color analyst for 10 years. He will
be replaced by Tom Roberts for the 2008 season.

Tom Roberts, longtime member of the Crimson Tide Sports Network crew,
will take over Stabler's color analyst duties for the 2008 football
season.

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(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)