Alabama in the Pros

Linebacker Dont’a Hightower powers New England’s defense to win against Cincinnati

by
Stephen M. Smith
October 18, 2016

He was listed as “questionable” going into Sunday’s match-up with Cincinnati, but there was no uncertainty in Dont’a Hightower’s performance in New England’s 35-17 win at Gillette Stadium.

The ex-Alabama linebacker pushed through a knee injury, to record a team-high 13 tackles against the Bengals. He collected 1.5 sacks and limited Cincinnati’s rushing attack to 120 yards on 32 carries.

Fourth-year running back Giovani Bernard was held to just 49 yards rushing on 15 tries. Hightower is sixth on the team in tackles (23), as he attempts to guide the Patriots’ defense into the playoffs for a fifth straight year.

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 @Smsmith_TDALMag.

Stephen M. Smith

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Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a seasoned writer that has covered Alabama football for Touchdown Alabama Magazine since 2009. Smith has extensive knowledge within the program, which has made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Throughout his career, Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.