Duke's Bryan Morgan has ties to Alabama

Duke senior Bryan Morgan grew up in Hoover, Ala., and played football for the popular Hoover High School.

When top-ranked Alabama (2-0) arrives in Durham on Saturday to face the Blue Devils (1-1, 0-1 ACC), it may feel like a reunion of sorts for Morgan.

Crimson Tide players Josh Chapman, Michael DeJohn and Will Lowery are all graduates of Hoover High. But more than former teammates, 14 of Morgan's relatives are expected in town.

"Some of these folks I haven't see in almost a year," he said.

Traditionally, many of Morgan's family members root for Auburn. His father, Isom, played football at Alabama A&M and is a member of the school's Hall of Fame.

Since the music major enrolled at Duke, his family has split time rooting for the Blue Devils. They are required to wear something blue on Saturday.

"Of course, they have to wear Duke stuff," he said.

Facing the Tide, the defending national champions, Morgan is not likely to have much time to catch up with friends and family. He is the starting center on an offense that will have its hands full with a defense that has allowed just six points and 458 total offensive yards.

"They are fantastic," Morgan said. "It's going to take a lot of preparation to have any success against them."

Does he give Duke a chance?

"Hey," he said. "That's why we go out there and play the game Saturday."

-- Edward Robinson