HOME
FOOTBALL 2009
MEN'S HOOPS 09-10
WOMEN'S HOOPS 09-10
BASEBALL 2007
GYMNASTICS
-tider insider [BEST]
-scout.com (BamaMag)
-rivals.com (BamaOnline)
-espn
-ocsn
-max emfinger

-2009-2012 classes

-2005-2008 classes
-2001-2004 classes
-1997-2000 classes
TIDE HISTORY
BAMA ART/BOOKS/GIFTS
JOKE JOKES JOKES!!!
PIC GALLERY
MESSAGE BOARD
BAMA LINKS
SEC LINKS
COLLEGE LINKS
BAMADOG'S PROFILE
BAMADOG PICS
FEEDBACK
QUICK LINKS
UA MAIN
UA ATHLETICS
CRIMSON TRADITION
UAGAMEDAY.COM
GYMTIDE.COM
ALUMNI ASSN.
TIDE PRIDE
MILLION DOLLAR BAND
ROLL TIDE ROLL


2010 ALABAMA VERBAL COMMITMENTS
NATIONAL SIGNING DAY IS FEBRUARY 3, 2010

QUARTERBACK Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Phillip Sims (Pics) 6-2 235 4.7 Oscar F. Smith HS; Chesapeake, VA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/15/2009
As a Jr, Sims has tossed for more than 2,400 yards & 32 TDs & 4 ints. As a soph, he threw for 3,100 yards & 33 TDs. In 2 years he has thrown for more than 4,500 yards & 48 TDs. Sims says that he still plans to graduate from high school in December and enroll at UA Spring 2010 and has absolutely NO intent of changing his commitment. He is solid to Alabama. Sims bench presses 280, squats 385, & power cleans 225. Phillip has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
QUARTERBACK/ATHLETE Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Blake Sims (Pics) 6-0 183 4.56 Gainesville HS; Gainesville, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/04/2009
Sims is a versatile athlete that could play QB, WR, or S on the next level. He does not have the ideal size for QB, but he has a strong arm, great mobility, and he makes good decisions. With the ball in his hands, he is dangerous, but he also has the ability to play defense. When talking about Sims, you are talking about one of the top athletes in Georgia and the South. A starter for Cass as a soph, Sims transferred to Gainesville before his Jr season. Sims can hurt teams with his arm and his legs. Class 3A All-State selection as a Jr. As a Jr, Sims was 3A Player of the Year in football and basketball, 1st Team All-County, and passed for 2,453 yards, rushed for 822 yards and accounted for 42 total TDs. Sims turned down offers from Arkansas, FSU, Georgia, Michigan, Tennessee and West Virginia, among others. He says his commitment to the Tide is solid. He bench presses 230.
RUNNING BACK Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Jalston Fowler (Pics | Video) 6-0 245 4.65 Vigor HS; Prichard, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/14/2009
As a Jr, Fowler had 139 carries for 1,085 yards & 15 TDs during his team's 5A championship season. He caught 27 passes for 391 yards scoring once. During Vigor's championship win over Russellville 50-30 Fowler scored 3 TDs and rushed for 169 yards. He was selected 5A All-State 1st Team Athlete by the ASWA. Bench press: 345. Squat: 495. Fowler turns 19 in Summer 2009, which makes him ineligible to play in his Sr season but will still work out with the team during the fall. Fowler is slated to graduate from Vigor in December and enroll at Alabama next January. Jalston has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
Corey Grant (Pics) 5-10 190 4.4 Opelika HS; Opelika, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/23/2009
Grant is aeeps his feet underneath him without overstriding, setting himself up for extremely quick cuts and change of direction. By not overextending, Grant can not only cut quick, but keeps his legs driving on contact. Runs with good power between the tackles despite not being a big back. Returns kicks, takes direct snaps and can catch out of the backfield. A terrific change of direction athlete. As a Jr, Grant had 88 carries for 724 yards & 14 TDs. He added 16 receptions for 235 yards & 2 TDs. As a Soph, he received 9 passes for 92 yards, 10.2 avg. & 31 carries for 289 yards 9.32 avg. leading team. He's run a sub-10.6 100 meters. He bench presses 280, squats 470 and power cleans 265. He carries a 3.2 core GPA.
WIDE RECEIVER Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Keiwone Malone (Pics) 6-1 170 4.4 Mitchell Road HS; Memphis, TN
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/06/2009
As a Jr, he had 67 catches for 1,319 yards, 101.4 Yds/Game, 19.7 Yds/Catch, 18 TDs, 15 PATs, 4 2-point conversions, and averages 34 Yards per punt. He lead the state in all receiving categories. He also led the state as a soph with 62 Receptions, 1,249 yds and 12 TDs. Malone chose Alabama over offers from Auburn, Duke, Georgia, Ole Miss, North Carolina and Tennessee. Malone broke the state record for receiving yards in a game this past season with a 358-yard, 3-TD receiving performance against Dyersburg in a state quarterfinal game. He reports a 2.8 GPA. Bench press: 225
Ronald Carswell (Pics) 6-0 171 4.44 Westside HS; Macon, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/07/2009
As a Jr, Carswell reeled in 34 catches for 627 yards & 3 TDs. As a soph, he had 33 receptions for 391 yards & 2 TDs. Says his HS coach, "He has great hands catching the ball and he runs precise routes. He has good speed and he's a great athlete. He's not a burner speed-wise, but he can run by you."
DeAndrew White (Pics) 6-0 170 4.40 North Shore HS; Galena Park, TX
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 10/08/2009
Not a big WR, but he is a player who has a lot of speed and is very quick. He does not have the build to get close to 200 pounds, instead he uses speed and quickness to beat the DB. He has not played against too many top CBs so he will have to learn how to beat jams and to get off the line when played up close. He has good hands so anything thrown his direction will be caught. As a Jr, he had 34 receptions for 801 yards & 11 TDs. 1st Team All-District. White also runs track & may try to double-sport in college. He runs a 21.6 200m and also competes in the long jump (24’) and triple jump (48'1"). White says he wants to major in architectural engineering and reports a 3.1 core GPA. Says White, "I have great speed & very good hands. I can make all kinds of catches & can't really be caught. I'm very elusive, but I need to improve my blocking." White had offers from Alabama, Florida, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. He was recruited by Bo Davis who was a former assistant coach at North Shore HS. He bench presses 245 & squats 405.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Austin Shepherd (Pics) 6-5 315 5.3 North Gwinnett HS; Suwannee, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 3/09/2009
He might not have 5 stars by his name, but make no mistake about it, Crimson Tide OL commit Austin Shepherd has the size, talent, desire and disposition to be a college standout. This recruit has a real nasty streak. "Obviously, whoever sees me play can see that I am mean," says Shepherd, who has been compared by some to former UA star Justin Smiley. He is the teammate of ex-Bama-commit OL JaWuan James. Bench press: 340. Squat: 425. Power clean: 305. Austin has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
Chad Lindsay (Pics) 6-3 300 5.3 The Woodlands HS; The Woodlands, TX
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/06/2009
As a Jr,he was 5A Texas Football 1st Team All-State & 2008 5A Texas Football All Junior Team. As a Soph, he was named Texas 15-5A 1st Team All-District. Chad was also named to the Texas Region II All-Underclassmen Team. Chad is the son of former Mississippi State OL Duff Lindsay (77-80). He had 20 scholarship offers, including ones from Alabama, Arizona State, Arkansas, Auburn, Colorado, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. In the end, Lindsay picked Alabama over LSU. Lindsay is planning to enroll at Alabama in January 2010 and participate in spring practice. Bench press: 425. Squat: 550. Chad has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
Arie Kouandjio (Pics) 6-6 320 5.2 Dematha Catholic HS; Hyattsville, MD
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/02/2010
Kouanjio has exceptional feet and is very agile for a big guy. He moves well in space and is very quick getting to the second level in a hurry. Kouandjio is a technician and he is very versatile. He is capable of playing every position along the offensive front. He sometimes struggles with bigger guys at the point of attack. He can bench 330-pounds, squat 605 and has a 28-inch vertical jump. Kouanjio picked Alabama over USC & New Mexico.
TIGHT END Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Brian Vogler (Pics) 6-7 246 4.65 Brookstone School; Columbus, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/22/2009
Enormous TE with even more upside, Vogler is the next great TE from the state (GA). Has very good and very soft hands. Concentrates well and can take a hit. Is a solid blocker, both at the LOS and down-field. Must gain weight to battle for a full season. Long-strider who covers ground quickly, he will develop better body control as he gains strength and physical maturity, thus adding change of direction to his skill set. At 6'7.5 and 205lbs, Vogler is a true specimen. His athleticism at the TE positon reminds many of a Jeremy Shockey. Vogler also has the ability to catch the football when split out wide. Vogler had close to 40 scholarship offers but eventually chose Alabama over Oklahoma. As a Jr, Vogler earned All-State honors after catching 21 passes for 465 yards & 6 TDs. Vogler carries a 3.4 GPA. Bench press: 275.
Harrison Jones (Pics) 6-4 230 4.8 Evangelical Christian HS; Memphis, TN
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 8/25/2009
Jones is a competitor and may be a tad undersized physically as a true TE, but he is a threat in the passing game. He has the size and speed to line up off the ball and create mismatches with LBs or DBs. He has great concentration when catching the ball. Blocking is not what he does best right now, so he will need to work on that and gaining weight on the next level. He is the brother of Bama OL Barrett Jones. Says Jones, "I just want to get as big as I can and as explosive as I can. I'm going to keep running and stay in shape. I want to be able to do as much as I can next season. It's awesome to know that you're going to be part of the national championship team." Bench press: 305. Squat: 405. Power clean: 280.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Brandon Lewis (from 2008 class) (Pics) 6-3 280 4.8 E.Miss JC; Scooba, MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/05/2009
A solid interior lineman that controls his man at the line of scrimmage, Lewis excels at occupying blockers and freeing up defensive ends and linebackers. He uses his hands well and plays with good pad level and leverage. He has an excellent motor and can frequently be found tracking down running plays from behind. Will need to work on his technique to become a pass rushing force, but is already solid against the run. Lewis originally committed to the 2008 Alabama signing class but failed to qualify.
Wilson Love (Pics) 6-4 270 4.7 Mt.Brook HS; Mountain Brook, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/18/2009
As a Jr, Love recorded 112 tackles. He was named 1st Team All-Metro, 1st Team All Over the Mountain & Honorable Mention All-State. As a Soph, he recorded 60 tackles. He is the younger brother of University of Alabama OL Tyler Love. In addition to Alabama, Love had offers from Clemson, Duke, Stanford and Vanderbilt. He bench presses 315 and squats 425. He carries a 3.5 GPA.
Brandon Ivory (Pics) 6-3 330 5.6 Memphis East HS; Memphis, TN
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/28/2010
Ivory has been compared to All-American nose guard Terrence Cody. He did not receive much attention until he stood out in a Memphis-area high school football game in early December in which he made 6 tackles for loss, including 3 sacks. There are not concerns about whether Ivory has the size to play in the trenches as this is one big boy. If anything he will need to watch how he adds bulk to make sure more size does not hinder his game.
Alfy Hill (Pics) 6-4 245 4.6 W.Brunswick HS, Shallotte, NC
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 9/09/2009
Alfy Hill finished his Jr season with 112 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, & 4 blocked punts. Hill reports a 2.8 core GPA. Hill: "I recognize plays well. I’m quick and elusive. I have good speed and am a good pass rusher. But I want to get stronger and work on my upper body. I’m pretty physical but I want to push off blockers better." "He wants to play for a national championship," his HS coach [Fletcher] adds, "and Alabama took a step towards that last Saturday [against Virginia Tech]." Hill benches 260-pounds, squat 450 & has a 33-inch vertical jump.
Adrian Hubbard (Pics) 6-7 230 4.44 Norcross HS; Norcross, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 12/08/2009
Hubbard is an athlete that is still growing into his long and rangy frame. He has to really work on his technique and add more moves off the ball to be successful on the next level, but he has a lot of natural talent. He is long, he is quick, he chase the ball down well, and he has a lot of room to grow physically. It may take a little time to all come together, but when it does he could be a force. As Sr, he made 102 tackles and 10 sacks. He bench presses 250 and squats 405.
LINEBACKERS Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Devonta Bolton (from 2008 class) (Pics) 6-4 230 4.5 E.Miss JC; Scooba, MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/16/2009
It's tough to come up with an area for improvement for Bolton, because he does so much so well. As a former WR and DB he has excellent speed and change of direction. Despite being a former WR, he's extremely physical and solid in technique. He is outstanding against the pass whether it's in coverage or blitzing. An ideal linebacker prospect, Bolton just needs to keep improving on the things he does well to be a star. As a Sr in HS, Bolton had 5 TDs. At safety, he had 4 ints. Bench Press: 330. Squat: 440. Power clean: 290. Bolton originally committed to the 2008 Alabama signing class but failed to qualify.
C.J.Mosley (Pics) 6-2 215 4.6 Theodore HS; Theodore, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/09/2010
As Soph, Mosley had 112 tackles, 4 sacks, & 1 int. As a Jr, he had 176 total tackles (115 solos, 61 assisted), 17 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 4 fumbles caused, 2 fumbles recovered & 2 ints. As Sr, he was named the state's class 6A Lineman of the Year after racking up an incredible 186 tackles, 7 sacks and 4 ints. He was named 1st Team ASWA 6A All-State LB, Birmingham News All-State (all classes) 1st Team LB. He says he can bench 220-pounds and has a 30-inch vertical jump. Mosley announced during the Army All-American Game in San Antonio.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Demarcus Milliner (Pics) 6-1 185 4.45 Stanhope Elmore HS; Millbrook, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/04/2009
A 2-way athlete that has the skills to play on either side of the ball in college. As a WR, Milliner does a good job of running after the catch and making guys miss. As a DB, he is aggressive at the point of attack, reads and anticipates well, and he has an excellent frame to add more size and muscle. As a Sr, Milliner finished the year with 7 ints & returned 2 for TDs. He had 57 total tackles with 33 unassisted. He returned 2 punts for TDs to go along with 1 kickoff returned for a TD. As a Jr, he also rushed for over 500 yards as a tailback. He was named Area Defensive Player of the Year (DB) and he was given 6A Honorable Mention ASWA as Athlete, All-County Free Safety by Montgomery Advertiser. He was named to the Montgomery Advertiser's All-Metro 5A-6A team as a sophomore in 2007. He chose Alabama over several schools, including Auburn, Clemson, FSU, LSU, Stanford and Tennessee. Bench press: 235. Squat: 345. Power clean: 230. Demarcus has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
Nick Perry (Pics) 6-1 190 4.6 Prattville HS; Prattville, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/01/2009
As a Jr, Perry had 37 total tackles, 22 solo, 1 tackle for a loss, 6 deflections, 4 ints returned for 72 yards & a TD. He is considered one of the state's top prospects for 2010. Bench press: 230. Squat: 430.
Jarrick Williams (Pics) 6-1 210 4.55 Blount HS; Prichard, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/26/2009
As a Jr, Williams played in 9 games. He recorded 94 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 8 pass breakups, 2 ints and blocked a FG attempt. He added 9 passes for 206 yards and 4 TDs. Offensively, he had close to 200 yards receiving & 4 TDs. Williams was given 6A Honorable Mention ASWA All-State DB. As a Soph, he made 75 tackles & 6 ints at Vigor High School. He transferred to Blount in the spring of 2008. Williams reports a 2.7 core GPA. Williams picked Alabama over Auburn, Clemson, FSU and LSU. He bench presses 280, squats 405 and power cleans 265.
Deion Belue (Pics) 6-0 165 4.3 Deshler HS; Tuscumbia, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/20/2009
As a Jr, Belue was chosen 4A All-State DB by the ASWA. He had 5 defensive TDs as well. Belue is considered one of the state's top corners. At Bama's camp, he turned in a blistering 4.3 in the 40. Belue had offers from Alabama, Auburn, Georgia Southern, Southern Miss, South Alabama and UAB. In the end, Belue chose Alabama over Auburn.
John Fulton (Pics) 6-1 185 4.4 Manning HS; Manning SC
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/02/2010
Fulton is an elite CB that has good length, very good speed, and a lot of potential. He is defintiely a stronger CB when playing press coverage so he needs to work on playing off WRs and understanding the coverages. He is a physcal guy that tackles well, he is quick out of his breaks, and his length makes it hard to get a pass over him. He finished his All-Conference Jr season with 8 ints. He missed 5 games as a Sr with a high ankle sprain. He finished his Sr year with 1 int. "They only threw to my side five times [this season]," he says. Fulton announced his commitment in the Under Armour All-American Classic. Bench press: 205. Squat: 325. John has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
Dequan Menzie (Pics) 6-0 198 4.4 Sopiah-Lincoln CC; Wesson, MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/31/2010
As a freshman (in CC), Menzie had over 40 tackles & 6 ints. This past season, he had 51 tackles, 2 ints, & 19 pass breakups.
SPECIAL TEAMS (K/LB) Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Cade Foster (Pics) 6-2 220 4.6 Carroll HS; Southlake, TX
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/27/2009
Cade is a tremendous talent. He is big, tall, strong, and athletic. Without a doubt a sure fire D1 prospect. Member of the Chris Sailer Kicking "TOP 12". Foster has been the starting placekicker since his freshman season. That year, he was an incredible 11 of 15 on FGs. He scored 115 points. But the one area he wanted to improve was on his kickoffs. Enter west coast kicking guru Chris Sailer. Says Foster, "Coach Sailer deserves a lot of credit for my success. He's trusted by college coaches all across the country for knowing who the best kickers are. He put my name out there as one of the best. He told me that I have great potential." In the state of Texas, kickoffs into the end zone can be returned, which makes Foster's career record of 63% of his kickoffs resulting in touchbacks very impressive. As a Jr, he finished 6 of 8 on FGs, with 62 points. The impressive stat of his junior season was that he was perfect from inside 50 yards. As a Soph, he was good on 11 of 15 FGs. He scored 99 points that season. His career long is 48 yards. Go behind the scenes with the Bamadog as I spoke to Cade and his parents as the Carroll HS football season began with a scrimmage vs Grapevine HS. Cade has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2010 semester.
SPECIAL TEAMS (P) Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Jay Williams (Pics) 6-4 220 N/A Thomasville HS; Thomasville, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/20/2009
As a Jr, Williams averaged around 48 yards per punt. Williams carries a 3.75 GPA. "He's a real high character kid," Hankins says. "He's a leader. He makes good decisions. He's low maintenance. You don't have to worry about him. He's going to do the right things." Bench press: 305. Power clean: 265


2009 ALABAMA RECRUITING CLASS

QUARTERBACK Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
A.J. McCarron (Pics) 6-4 189 4.9 St. Pauls Episcopal; Mobile, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 5/03/2008
As a Senior, McCarron threw for 1,700 yards, rushed for 400, had 19 TD passes and 2 interceptions. He was recently tabbed as the MVP for the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. In the 28-3 victory, he threw for 170 yards and 2 TDs. In 2007: ASWA All-State First Team QB, ASWA Super 12 (All Classes), Orlando-Sentinel All-Southern Team QB (Alabama). 2007 Junior Stats: 145 of 232 attempts for 2,540 yards & 26 TDs with only 3 ints. 2006 Soph. Stats: Passed for over 1,900 yards, 25 TDs and 4 ints. He chose Alabama over Georgia, Miami and Oklahoma. McCarron carries a 3.0 GPA and scored a 19 on the ACT. "I feel like after my time at Alabama, we can walk away with two or more national championships. I think we will have huge success and bring Alabama to where it was in the 90s -- back to when you mentioned the University of Alabama, people feared them."
RUNNING BACK Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Trent Richardson (Pics) 5-11 225 4.5 Escambia HS; Pensacola, FL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/02/2008
An extremely hard runner, Richardson fights for every last inch when he has the ball in his hands. He is extremely hard to knock off his feet and breaks tackles well with his balance. He sees the hole and attacks the 2nd level of defenders punishing smaller LBs and DBs. As a Senior, he finished the season with 1,849 yards and 24 TDs on 191 carries. In 2007, he finished his Jr season (7 games) with 1,490 yards & 15 TDs. FSWA All-State 5A 2nd team for his junior season. He sat out his soph year due to an injury. He bench presses 345, squats 485 & power cleans 320. He carries a 2.7 GPA. "I feel really good about Alabama. I enjoyed being in Tuscaloosa for the camp and meeting everybody and getting to know the coaches even better. I felt very comfortable. I like Coach Saban. I know a lot of people are scared of him. They're scared of him as a recruiter, because he can put some great classes together. I really like him. He's a cool guy. I know he's a tough coach who will get on your butt, but I'm used to that. That's the kind of coach I want to play for."
Eddie Lacy (Pics) 6-0 205 4.5 Dutchtown HS; Geismar, LA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
A downhill slasher, Lacy is powerful and difficult to tackle. Attacks seams in the 2nd and 3rd levels, and has the ability to run away from LBs and DBs. A bit stiff in the hips and this becomes apparent in the fact that he has difficulty dropping his hips and cutting back. He has moderate levels of success using a spin move, but even then, he stays high and stiff. Gets tough yards and finishes as well as any back in the region. As a Sr, Lacy suffered a left knee MCL sprain causing him to miss a few games, then he later suffered a right ankle sprain and only played in about 7 total games. He still managed to rush for 1,046 yards and 17 TDs, playing hurt most of the year. Class 5A All-State selection, Mobile Press Register Super Southeast 120. As a Jr, he finished with around 1,800 yards rushing and 26 TDs & named LSWA Class 5A All-State/LFCA Class 5A 1st Team All-State. As a Soph, he rushed for 1,207 yards on 178 attempts and scored 19 TDs. Has work to do to qualify academically.
FULLBACK Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Mike Marrow (Pics) 6-01 240 4.7 Central Catholic HS; Toledo, OH
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/20/2008
As a Senior, Marrow played on both sides of the ball, but he says Alabama prefers him on offense, where he rushed for approximately 900 yards. In 2007, he rushed for 810 yards & 10 TDs, while averaging 5.06 yards per carry. He also had 27 tackles, 3 of those coming for loss including a sack as a part-time MLB. He bench presses 370 and squats 550. He selected Alabama over Penn State, Nebraska and Wisconsin, among others. He is expected to qualify. "Coach Saban told me that I'm the big back that they need," Marrow said. "He was really happy about my decision. He said that I fit perfectly in their system and what they need. He said they've been lacking a big, strong back like me."
WIDE RECEIVER Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Michael Bowman (Pics) 6-4 210 4.5 Ridgeland, HS; Rossville, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 9/13/2008
As physically-gifted as most, Bowman could be special. Standing 6'4 and weighing over 200 pounds, he has the potential to take games over. Has outstanding length and has at times shown the ability to compete for (and win) jump balls. Has the skill set to be a premier #1 option and Red Zone weapon. Needs to pay more attention to detail and learn to compete on every down. As a senior, he caught 37 passes for 1,006 yards and 13 TDs; received AAA All-State honors. He says he's on track to qualify. He bench presses 265 & squats 380.
Kevin Norwood (Pics) 6-3 185 4.45 D'Iberville HS; D'Iberville MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 12/16/2008
Norwood seems to always have a hand in the play on both sides of the field. As a safety he has shown ball hawking skills and a nose for making the play in run support. He is an explosive offensive player who is a threat to take it the distance any time he touches the football. He has great length and his frame will allow him to add some muscle without hurting is overall quickness or speed. As a Junior, he caught 33 passes for 668 yards & 11 TDs. As a Senior, he was named 1st team All-State by the Clarion Ledger. He also recorded 10 interceptions & earned the Sun Herald’s South Mississippi Defensive Player of the Year. He was also named Mr. South Mississippi Football. On offense, he had 64 receptions for 1,100 yards & 13 TDs. He was selected to play in the Mississippi/Alabama All-Star game. Norwood carries a 2.8 GPA. He bench presses 215 & squats 325. "I'm solid. I will be signing with The Tide on signing day. Even though I haven't actually signed, I'm already a member of the Tide."
Kendall Kelly (Pics) 6-4 210 4.45 Gadsden HS; Gadsden, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
One of the top players in the Southeast, Kelly is the real deal. Has the size to beat jams at the LOS and to run through the tackles of second and third-level defenders. Doesn't mind contact at all and gets tough yards. Also has home-run capability from anywhere on the field. Uses size well and is virtually impossible to defend in the red zone. Needs to secure the ball better as defenders will be much stronger at the next level. As a Sr, he rushed for 78 yards on 13 carries. He also caught 9 passes for 130 yards. Kelly returned 1 kickoff for 38 yards. He scored 5 TDs in a season that saw limited playing time due to injury. He was given Honorable Mention by the ASWA as 6A WR, Mobile Press Register's Super Southeast 120. As a Jr., Kelly recorded 34 receptions for 595 yards, rushed 17 times for 189 yards and scored 9 TDs & was awarded ASWA Honorable Mention 6A WR. He bench presses 240, squats 365 & power cleans 225.
Kenny Bell (Pics) 6-1 170 4.35 Rayville HS; Rayville, LA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
As a Sr., Bell caught 46 passes for 816 yards & scored 9 TDs. He was selected LSWA First Team All-State, and Mobile Press Register's Super Southeast 120. Bell is a big-play guy that has good hands and a lot of speed. As a Jr., he was Rayville's leading WR with 58 catches for 989 yards & 12 TDs. He was a 2-time 3A All-State pick as well. Bell reports a 2.7 GPA with an ACT score of 17. Changed his LSU commitment on signing day to favor the Tide.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
D.J. Fluker (Pics) 6-7 340 5.1 Foley HS; Foley, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 11/06/2007
As a Senior, he was a USA Today All-American among getting other awards and playing in the Army All-Star Game. As a Jr at Biloxi, Fluker had 78 tackles & 7 sacks. Fluker, who is committed to Alabama, has starred primarily on the defensive side of the ball. When he committed to Alabama, Fluker said that the Tide staff told him that their initial plans were to put him on defense. But there has been speculation that Fluker might eventually end up at offensive tackle in college. He chose Alabama over Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Louisville, LSU and Notre Dame, among others. Foley reports a 3.0 GPA. "I think I can bring leadership to the team and help the players out and keep them motivated," he says. "On defense, I can plug the holes, play the run, and get a good pass rush. I work really hard and bust my tail every day. I want to get faster and stronger and keep playing every play as hard as I can."
Kellen Williams (Pics) 6-4 280 5.1 Brookwood HS; Snellville, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/17/2008
Says HS Coach Crews, "He's an excellent offensive lineman. He's got the size and athletic ability the college coaches like. He's strong and he moves well and he's a flexible kid. He's got excellent flexibility in his hips. He's an outstanding player." Williams also had offers from Arkansas, FSU, NC State, Rutgers and Wake Forest, among others. He bench presses 345, squats 415, & power cleans 285. He is expected to qualify.
Darius McKeller (Pics) 6-6 295 5.3 Jonesboro HS; Jonesboro, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 4/23/2008
Darius is son of Keith McKeller who played 12 years for Marv Levy with the Buffalo Bills. He bench presses 250 & squats 350. "My one-on-one time with Coach Pendry really did it for me. I met with him both times when I visited during spring break and we really hit it off well. I think he's one of the best offensive line coaches in the nation. He's been doing for about 30 years. I think he can mold me into a great player."
Chance Warmack (Pics) 6-3 330 5.6 Westlake HS; Atlanta, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 5/23/2008
A big bodied OG prospect, Warmack moves well enough to play RT for his Westlake team as a Jr. He has a lot of natural strength but hasn't yet learned how to get the most out of it with his leverage and technique. Effort doesn't seem to be a problem as his video shows him getting downfield following ball carriers for extra blocks on a regular basis. Needs to improve his lateral quickness to reach his potential. He bench presses 335 & squats 450. He carries a 3.0 GPA. Chose Alabama over Auburn, FSU, UGA, Georgia Tech and LSU. "Alabama recruited me as an offensive guard," Warmack says. "I can play left or right -- wherever they want me to be. I think I can bring a lot of attitude to the line. I try to execute the play and finish people. I'm strict when it comes to technique, and I know the coaches will help me with that and make me better." Warmack has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2009 semester.
Anthony Steen (Pics) 6-4 297 5.1 Lee Academy; Clarksdale, MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/29/2008
Steen is a very physical blocker who enjoys the rigors of close contact. He shows a great initial burst off the line, but at times he fails to finish his blocks. He shows great effort on both sides of the line of scrimmage and is a sure handed tackler from his DT position. He bench presses 410, squats 535 & power cleans 325. Picked Alabama over FSU, Miami, LSU. He's also drawing strong interest from LSU. "Tradition," Steen's father, Billy Steen, says when asked why his son selected Alabama over FSU, Miami, Mississippi State and USM. "The University of Alabama is like going to heaven and coming back. The allure of being at Alabama is what pulled him in that direction."
James Carpenter (Pics) 6-5 305 5.3 Coffeyville CC; Coffeyville, KS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 11/29/2008
Carpenter was ranked among the nation's top junior college prospects. This past season, he was his team's MVP. He picked Alabama over Oklahoma and Texas Tech. "Coach Saban and Coach Pendry were both very excited that I had signed. They told me that they are very excited about me getting there and starting to work. I'm excited about it, too. They told me that if Andre [Smith] leaves for the NFL, that I would be at left tackle. If he stays, they said they're going to put me at right tackle and right guard and go from there." Carpenter has enrolled at Alabama for Spring 2009 semester.
Brandon Moore (Pics) 6-5 320 5.3 Carver Senior HS; Montgomery, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
Moore plays DE for his Carver team, and he shows excellent athleticism. For his size he has a good change of direction and effort level. It's not out of the question that he could be a big DT. He plays with enough leverage to occupy a double team inside, but he's better suited to be an OT on the college level. He'll be behind in his technique, but he'll be way ahead in physical ability. His team's senior SR ran for 2,229 yards behind Moore and the OL. Moore graded 91% for the year. He was named 5A First Team All-State by the ASWA, All Metro by the Montgomery Advertiser, Birmingham News All-State (All Classes), Mobile Press Register Super Southeast 120. As a Jr, he had had 60 tackles and 7 sacks. Has work to do to qualify academically.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Quinton Dial (Pics) 6-5 307 5.4 Clay-Chalkville HS; Pinson, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 6/08/2008
As a Senior, Dial posted 87 tackles and 8 sacks and earned 6A Lineman of the Year honors. As a Jr, Dial made 61 tackles, 7 for loss, 4 sacks & 4 fumble recoveries. He bench presses 325 and is expected to qualify. Coach says of Dial, "Hardworker, powerful, strong and a playmaker." He picked Alabama over Auburn, Clemson, Florida, FSU, and UCF. "I have always been a big Alabama fan. Alabama is where I have always wanted to play. I've been thinking about it and I've been talking to my coaches about it," Dial says. "I wanted to go ahead and commit so that I could focus on my senior season. It feels good to be committed to Alabama. Coach Saban is building the program from the ground up, and I want to be part of that." Dial did not qualify academically; signed with East MS Community College, Spring 2009.
William Ming (Pics) 6-4 250 4.8 Athens HS; Athens, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/22/2008
An excellent 2-way athlete with the skill to excel on either side, Ming has uncanny agility for a big man. Has very good feet and moves down the LOS as well as most DEs. Does especially well in space, as is illustrated by his abilities with the ball (TE). Excellent off the edge and demonstrates very good body control. Pad level is solid but he needs to work on initial punch, getting extension and disengaging. In Jr season, Ming had 67 tackles with 17 for a loss along with 5 sacks & a fumble recovery. He was also chosen to the Decatur Daily All-Area Defense First Team 4A-6A DL. He bench presses 305, squats 430 & power cleans 270. He carries a 3.9 GPA & scored a 26 on the ACT. Ming passed up offers from Auburn, Florida, LSU, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Clemson, Florida State, Georgia and Michigan."Coach Saban told me that they need DL like me this year. He said that they got a lot of big DL last year and that they need some fast DL that can provide a pass rush this year. They want me as a DE." As for his goal at Alabama, Ming says, "It's pretty simple. I want to win the national championship. I think we'll accomplish that."
Anthony Orr (Pics) 6-4 260 4.85 Sparkman HS; Harvest, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/29/2008
As a Senior, Orr made around 40 tackles and 6 sacks. As a junior, Orr had 64 tackles & 7 sacks. Orr bench presses 310 & squats 500. He has scored a 19 on the ACT. "I really felt good about the Alabama coaching staff," Orr says. "I think they have the program going in the right direction. They have it headed to a national championship, and I want to be a part of it. I like Coach Saban. He's a great coach. I also like Coach Cignetti, who recruited me, and the defensive line coach, Coach Bo Davis. When I told them of my decision, they were all very excited." Orr will likely grayshirt and enroll January 2010.
Darrington Sentimore (Pics) 6-3 265 4.9 Destrehan HS; Destrehan HS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 10/05/2008
As a Senior, Sentimore played on a bad ankle and still had around 15 tackles and 2 sacks. In the state title game, Sentimore was a pass rushing terror. On one play he pressured West Monroe quarterback D.J. Banks into an interception that was returned 98 yards for a TD to seal the victory. As a junior, had 120 tackles, 31 tackles for loss, 16 sacks & 3 forced fumbles. He finished his senior season with over 100 tackles. He bench presses 375 and squats 575. He carries a 2.9 GPA & scored a 17 on the ACT. "I like Alabama a lot," says Sentimore. "They have a great program. I liked it over there. They have great facilities and a great coaching staff. There is nothing I didn't like about it over there."
Chris Bonds (Pics) 6-4 270 4.75 Richland NE HS; Columbia, SC
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 11/21/2008
As a Senior, Bonds suffered a torn meniscuses in October, missing 3 games. Richland Northeast lost in the 2nd round of the 4A playoffs & Bonds played at 100% in the final game. He reports a 3.2 core GPA and a 1580 SAT. He says he'll either major in engineering or kinesiology. He benches 325 pounds, squats 425 pounds & vertical jumps 34 inches. Bonds choose Alabama over offers from coast to coast, including ones from Michigan, Notre Dame, South Carolina, Southern Cal and Tennessee. Bonds: "I guess I'm aggressive off the corner and I'm used to pass rush too. I also drop back in coverage a lot and I'm just very versatile. My overall speed needs work. I'm a big guy, but need to improve my agility and cut quicker. I work out Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and do a lot of bungee and parachutes to work on speed. I'm also focused on improving my upper body strength and try to mix things up by getting new drills from my coaches. I like doing the cone drills too."
Ed Stinson (Pics) 6-4 230 4.7 South Dade HS; Homestead, FL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/30/2009
A two sport standout, Stinson has a tremendous amount of natural ability, size, and quickness. The term "upside" is used when discussing a player like Stinson whose football prowess hasn't caught up with his athletic gifts. Great frame, great quickness, his effort level can run hot and cold, and he can get lazy with his tackling fundamentals. Frequently shows flashes of brilliance which makes him such an outstanding prospect. As a Sr, he was named to the Mobile Press Register's Super Southeast 120 "wrecking ball who wreaks havoc off the edge." His production was limited this past season due to minor injuries. As a Jr, he was one of the state's top DE prospects who finished his 1st full year of football with 55 tackles, 12 for loss and 15 sacks.
LINEBACKERS Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Nico Johnson (Pics) 6-3 230 4.6 Andalusia HS; Andalusia, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 9/03/2008
A very physical player who runs through his tackles, Johnson is also agile enough to change direction while in pursuit. He has soft hands and light feet, but is a heavy hitter who causes turnovers on contact. He is a little high on his run-throughs and this causes him to get chipped quite a bit, but he is strong enough to re-track in pursuit. Johnson has very strong hands and doesn't lose ball carriers after contact. As a Senior, he had approximately 130 tackles & was selected to play in the Army All-Star Game. In Jr year, made 80 tackles & blocked 1 FG. He missed 3 games due to a partial tear in his MCL. Johnson was named ASWA 1st team All-State 4A as a sophomore & repeated the honor as a Jr All-State 1st team selection LB in 2007. He benches 320-pounds, cleans 280, squats 645 and has an impressive 37-inch vertical leap. As a soph, Johnson recorded 113 solo tackles & 15 assists at MLB. He reports a 2.8 core GPA and a 22 ACT. "About a month ago, I remember talking to Coach Thompson," he says. "I think I'll be playing either the Will or Mike position at Alabama. I like that Alabama's LBs play relentless. I have pretty good size, and I know Coach Saban likes big players."
Jonathan Atchison (Pics) 6-3 215 4.6 Douglass HS; Atlanta, GA
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 12/05/2008
As a Junior, Atchison recorded 112 tackles & 12 sacks. He added 14 catches for 370 yards & 5 TDs as well. As a Senior, he was 1st team All-State (5A) as he racked up 125 tackles & 7 sacks. He carries a 2.8 GPA and scored 1500 on the SAT. He bench presses 310 and squats 440. "Alabama has told me that I am either a Will or Sam LB. I played both of those positions in high school and I can play both in Alabama's 3-4 defense. We've talked about it and they've told me they're going to look at me at both places and see where I fit in best for them. They really like my versatility. They think I could play just about any of their LB positions."
Petey Smith (Pics) 6-0 250 4.7 Armwood HS; Seffner, FL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 1/27/2009
Smith is a 3-time All-Hillsborough County selection and was a 4A All-State pick following his sophomore and junior seasons. Smith made over 400 career tackles & bench presses 385 pounds. In 2007 as a Jr, he missed 7 games due to an abdominal injury. It cost him the majority of his junior season, but he still accounted for over 70 tackles. Says Smith, "They like my aggressive nature and that I'm a downhill LB who can stop the run. You have to have that in the 3-4. You need a bigger body in the middle. I play that type of defense in high school, and I can get off blocks and be explosive."
Tana Patrick (Pics) 6-3 215 4.5 North Jackson HS; Stevenson, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
A super talent at LB, Patrick simply produces. Has been a starter for most of his HS career and has developed into one of the top players in the country. Can play inside or outside, as he is extremely athletic. Could be an every-down player, but will need to focus on durability. Could contribute early and should be a special-teams mainstay. As a Sr, he had 26 rushes for 191 yards and 2 TDs; caught 19 passes for 233 yards and 4 TDs; completed 2 of 3 passing attempts with an int and 41 yards. Defensively, he led the team with 140 total tackles, 49 solo with 91 assists, 3 sacks and 1 pass breakup & recovered 1 fumble. Awards: 4A Lineman of the year, ASWA 4A 1st Team LB and part of the Super 12; finalist for the first high school Butkus Award, Orlando Sentinel's All-Southern Team (AL), Birmingham News All-State First Team (all classes), Press Register's Super SE 120 (#28). He was selected to the U.S. Army All-American Game. The Huntsville Times #1 player in their Elite 11 pre-season. Birmingham News Super Senior pre-season and All-State (all classes). Says Patrick, "I have great speed and power. I have good vision and see things quickly. I have real good awareness on the field. I'm just a physical and aggressive player. I want to improve on everything. I think I've gotten better every year and still want to improve every part of my game."
DEFENSIVE BACKS Height Weight Speed High School/J.C.
Dre Kirkpatrick (Pics) 6-2 180 4.5 Gadsden City HS; Gadsden, AL
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 2/04/2009
A corner with the size of a safety, Kirkpatrick is as advertised from a physical standpoint. He is very long and does not get beat on jump balls. Is a momentum player, so success early is good. Needs to be more physical at the LOS, especially when matching up with bigger, more physical receivers. As dangerous with the ball as anybody, he could actually star on either side of the ball. As a Sr, he had 44 total tackles, with 24 solo and 20 assists, 6 ints, 1 returned for a TD and 10 pass breakups. He also returned 3 punts for 104 yards. He was 6A Back of the Year. Birmingham News Super Senior Pre-season, Mobile Register's Super Southeast 120 ranked #3, Orlando Sentinel All-Southern Team, ASWA Super 12, ASWA 6A All-State First Team, USA Today All-USA, and Parade All-American.
Rod Woodson (Pics) 5-11 210 4.6 Olive Branch HS; Olive Branch, MS
Rivals Rating - Scout Rating - Commited: 7/25/2008
Woodson is like a heat seeking missle in run support. He often knifes through the line and makes the play for little to no gain. Rod is a very physical tackler who thrives on making the big hit. He could possibly grow into a strong side linebacker. Through 10 games as a Senior, Woodson lead Olive Branch with 80+ tackles and had added 2 interceptions. As a Jr, Woodson racked up 140 tackles, 3 fumbles caused, 3 fumbles recovered & 3 ints. Woodson bench presses 315, squats 500, & claims a 41-inch vertical leap. Qualifying is within reach. Woodson doesn't report a core GPA but has scored either a 14 or 17 ACT (not confirmed). He also has to pass one more section of his graduation exam. He also competes as an amateur boxer. Says Woodson, "I'm hard-hitting, and Alabama plays my type of defense. You've got to be physical, because there will be bigger people than you with the football. I like to be explosive when I hit. I'm aggressive and bring pain to the game. I bring a lot of excitement." With his decision out of the way, Woodson hopes to convince more top recruits to climb aboard the Tide train.