His career started as a cornerback, but Alabama defensive back Eddie Jackson may go the National Football League as a safety one day. An offseason transition during the summer of 2015 really helped mature Jackson and gave Alabama’s defense much athleticism. The junior had five interceptions prior to Monday night, with all coming in critical situations.
Another moment presented itself in the second quarter against Clemson. Tigers’ quarterback Deshaun Watson had the team leading Alabama 14-7 with momentum. Jackson was late providing help in coverage to start, but read the eyes of Watson on a pass to freshman wide out Ray-Ray Mccloud.
He undercut the route and recorded his sixth interception.
#NationalChampionship Defensive Player of the Game: Alabama's Eddie Jackson. Well done, Champion. #RollTide pic.twitter.com/KuIhHw1kEk
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 12, 2016
Jackson totaled three tackles to go along with his takeaway, but it was the interception that awarded him most valuable player honors on defense.
He gave the Crimson Tide a chance to tie the game at 14.
Watson’s accuracy and big play capabilities would have blown the game open for Clemson, if Jackson does not create a turnover. He started the season with an interception and now Jackson ends the year with a takeaway, the “Ball Out” championship turnover belt and a national championship.
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.
