He is probably one of very few Arkansas natives to enroll at the University of Alabama under head coach Nick Saban, but like others he’s grown to love how much “The Process” works.
Senior defensive lineman Joshua Frazier has been an effective rotational player for three seasons – including a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015, but this weekend he has a prime chance to start for the Crimson Tide versus Florida State to open a new year.
On a defense that limited opponents to 64 yards rushing, Frazier turned in eight tackles, one tackle for loss and a sack through 14 games. He’s played behind studs like A’Shawn Robinson, Jarran Reed, Dalvin Tomlinson and Jonathan Allen; however, the once four-star prospect is projected a co-starter at defensive end with Raekwon Davis.
While a minor gunshot wound kept Davis from practicing with the team in the last two days, Frazier has been spotted taking reps with Hand and junior Da’Ron Payne. With Davis still listed as ‘day-to-day’ per Saban, expect the 315-pounder to suit up as a starter against the Seminoles.
“I think Josh Frazier had a good summer and he’s had a good fall camp,” Saban said Wednesday during his final presser of the week. “He’s gotten his weight down and his play has improved.”
Prior to arriving at Alabama in 2014 as a freshman, Frazier was one of the top interior defensive linemen nationally in the high school ranks and No. 160 on the ESPN 300 recruiting network.
He’s flashed both moments of brilliance and struggle; nevertheless, Frazier has worked himself into a pleasant opportunity.
“He’s got a role in the two-deep,” Saban said.
“In some situations, he’ll be a starter and he’s done a really good job.”
It will be a medical staff decision on whether Davis can play, but don’t be surprise if Frazier ends up starting in his place. Davis’ absence on the field will hurt the Tide’s depth; nonetheless, the leadership of Frazier and rotating Quinnen Williams and Isaiah Buggs should help.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
