TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– Aside from a 16-yard hookup between quarterback Jake Browning and wide receiver Dante Pettis for a touchdown, Alabama’s secondary shut down Washington’s passing attack.
Since accepting Eddie Jackson’s challenge to step up, sophomore Minkah Fitzpatrick has become one of the captains on defense. While he displays solid range in coverage and toughness in run support, his eyes and hands are fixed on holding the “Ball Out” belt. Fitzpatrick nabbed his sixth interception of the season against Washington, during the fourth quarter of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. His contribution not only ties him for third in the nation, but it also gives him an opportunity to advance on the Crimson Tide’s single season list.
The Old Bridge, N.J., native is two interceptions shy of tying former Alabama standouts Harry Gilmer (1946) and Robert Lester (2010) for second all-time in a single season. Both players accounted for eight picks and for Lester, his efforts guided the Tide to a 10-3 record in 2010. Fitzpatrick already has two multi-interception games in his career, including one this season against Arkansas (three picks, one for a touchdown).
He also collected six tackles in helping Alabama defeat the Huskies 24-7 in Atlanta.
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.
