Alabama had its final two-a-day practice session Thursday. Its first scrimmage game is set for Saturday at 1:00 pm CT at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Head coach Nick Saban and defensive backs coach Mel Tucker unveiled some of the looks for its dime package on defense.
Quarterbacks
Senior quarterback Jake Coker and redshirt freshman David Cornwell led both lines in deep ball passing drills. Alec Morris followed by Coker and Blake Barnett and Cooper Bateman stood behind Cornwell. Coker, Cornwell and Barnett all displayed some pinpoint throws; however, receivers had to adjust to the ball on a few situations.
Linebackers
Inside linebacker Reggie Ragland wants to improve his coverage skills and pass rushing abilities. He worked beside outside linebackers Tim Williams and Rashaan Evans.
All three were explosive off the ball and showed solid footwork.
Outside linebacker Dillon Lee led all inside linebackers through drills, followed by Reuben Foster, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Keith Holcombe and Adonis Thomas.
Lee’s diversity could land him a spot at either outside, inside or strong side linebacker.
Wide Receivers
Redshirt junior Chris Black (ankle) is still limited. He moved around some, but didn’t participate much. ArDarius Stewart and Robert Foster continue to led both groups through drills. Richard Mullaney, Parker Barrineau and Calvin Ridley each had one impressive catch. True freshman Daylon Charlot dropped a pass and was seen doing push ups.
Cornerbacks/Safeties
True freshman cornerback Minkah Fitzpatrick has played his way into Alabama’s first-team dime package. He lined up at Money, with junior defensive back Maurice Smith at Star.
Cyrus Jones and a mixture of both Tony Brown and Anthony Averett were the corners. Safeties were Geno Matias-Smith and Eddie Jackson.
Marlon Humphrey and Bradley Sylve lined up at corner in Alabama’s second-team dime package.
Other Information
Offensive linemen and tight ends worked on blocking techniques during both periods.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
