Nick Saban met with the media for the last time before Alabama faces Arkansas State at home on Saturday.

Here is a summary of what he said:

-- Saban said Arkansas State has made for a tough preparation, citing the Red Wolves' passing offense.

-- Saban complimented the 54 players who are in the NFL.

-- Saban said outside linebacker Jarez Parks had a death in the family and has missed practice as a result. Because he is from Florida, he stayed back there after the game Saturday and that he should return to Tuscaloosa tomorrow.

-- Saban said Arkansas State runs an up-tempo offense and the opportunity to face that style of attack will be beneficial going forward.

-- Saban said Alabama was a little tentative "up front" at the outset of the Louisville game.

-- Saban said he would like to play multiple running backs but that they are not trying to divvy up the carries based on prescribed quotas. Saban added he would be willing to give the ball to the player with the "hot hand."

-- Saban said what Alabama does with Jalen Hurts will be discussed internally and he's not eager to share those details.

Rainer Sabin is an Alabama beat writer for the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @RainerSabin