Alabama head coach Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide were indoors Thursday for day two of Michigan State prep.
Alabama, who is No. 2 in the College Football Playoff, will face the Spartans in the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 31 at Dallas, Texas.
TDAM contributor Ivan White and yours truly now provide observations from Thursday’s session.
Notes from Thursday’s practice
- Senior running back Kenyan Drake (arm) led all backs through positions drills during both viewing periods. His right arm is still in a brace, but he looked smooth gripping the ball while shifting his feet.
- New defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt stood on the sidelines, watching both cornerbacks and safeties. He is allowed to break down film and recruit; however, he is not allowed to coach.
- Quarterbacks and wide receivers worked on timing patterns to the inside and fade routes. Jacob Coker and Alec Morris both displayed touch and accuracy on a few deep patterns.
- Freshman wide receiver Deionte Thompson worked with safeties beside defensive backs coach Mel Tucker during the second viewing period. He continues to sport his usually No. 23 jersey.
- Defensive backs Geno Matias-Smith and Minkah Fitzpatrick moved well in tackling drills. Fitzpatrick continues to wear a brace on his left knee, which was the one he sprained against Mississippi State.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
Ivan L. White is a contributor for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ilwhite1
