One of two sophomore safeties will rise this fall, if not both.
For the University of Alabama, Daniel Wright and Eddie Smith are known around the community – however, the two seek national attention and fall camp will determine which one makes the bigger impact in the defensive secondary.
Both guys are talented players with much to offer, but Wright and Smith also have different skill sets.
Wright, a former four-star, came to the Crimson Tide from Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) as one of the highest rated safeties in the 2017 recruiting cycle. He was regarded as a premiere coverage defender, but his physicality at 6’1” and 190 pounds allows him to be a big-time hitter.
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He can play either at free safety or dime linebacker, but health and focused are two important things for Wright to keep in mind. After suffering a torn labrum in his shoulder last August, he saw time in four games while serving a suspension. Alabama’s head football coach, Nick Saban has the depth in the secondary to incorporate all his pieces, yet all have to stay in compliance.
Smith, a former three-star, was part of the Tide’s 2018 class from Slidell, La.
Despite his rating, he plays with excellent versatility, explosiveness and ball skills. Smith recorded an interception off freshman quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa on A-Day and received praises from his head coach all spring.
The 6-foot, 196-pounder has some traits that resemble former Alabama safety, Eddie Jackson. Smith possesses strong instincts and has the range to tract the football. Depending on where the team feels about placing Shyheim Carter – nickel or safety – will go a long way in determining the amount of action that Smith sees in the fall.
Tide fans, who do see stepping up between Wright and Smith?
In Tuesday’s airing of In My Own Words, Stephen Smith of Touchdown Alabama Magazine dives into both players and gives his insight on their strengths and weaknesses.
You can also listen to the audio version of the podcast via Spreaker.com.
Listen to “Daniel Wright vs. Eddie Smith….FULL BREAKDOWN” on Spreaker.
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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 @CoachingMSmith.
