More on 'Bama Probation: Will Crimson Tide File Appeal?

You might think that officials at Alabama would be relieved—thrilled, even—that their most NCAA penalty did not include a loss of scholarships or a postseason ban.

But this is Alabama we're talking about. The Crimson Tide are a proud bunch. Proud of their records. Proud of their history. And that's why, apparently, officials in Tuscaloosa are considering at least considering an appeal of the NCAA's ruling that it must vacate 21 wins from the 2005, 2006 and 2007 seasons.

That penalty, along with three years' probation, was handed down this week, the result of a scandal that saw 'Bama football players improperly obtain thousands of dollars worth of textbooks.

Most seem to believe that the Tide got off easy here. Especially considering its status as a "repeat offender."

But Alabama Athletic Director Mal Moore said this week that the school has not ruled out an appeal. As Moore told the Tuscaloosa News: “We will carefully consider our options regarding an appeal, as we feel that we owe that to our current and former student-athletes, and to our alumni and fans."

In other words, Alabama isn't going down without a fight.

Photo: Alabama may appeal its most recent NCAA probation. (Doug Benc/Getty Images)