Four student-athletes were granted media access on Monday, following Alabama’s 47-28 win over Texas A&M.
The group of Tua Tagovailoa, Xavier McKinney, Terrell Lewis and Jaylen Waddle all talked about their ‘excitement’ for the Crimson Tide’s first night game of the season this week versus Tennessee.
While each one understands what this rivalry means for the fans that grew up in it, all four players are treating it like it’s another game.
RELATED: Alabama 2020 NFL Draft projections
For McKinney and Lewis, the tandem on defense is happy about the growth of Christian Barmore.
Both guys said the redshirt freshman brings an energy that ‘gets everyone going.’
Sophomore linebacker, Ale Kaho is another one they are excited about.
Lewis said that Kaho is a ‘headhunter’ and wants to see him more on defense. A member of the 2018 signing class, Kaho recorded his second blocked punt of the year versus the Aggies.
As for Tagovailoa, he was pleased with the effort of the offensive line against Texas A&M.
“They did a great job,” Tagovailoa said. “Landon Dickerson did a great job communicating up front for those guys. With this being his first time on the job, he did a really great job.”
The front line protected Tagovailoa to 293 passing yards and four touchdowns.
He was happy about his career day on special teams, but Jaylen Waddle was more so proud of Tyrell Shavers for secure a blocked punt for a touchdown.
“He secured the bag this time,” the sophomore said of Shavers with a smile.
You can listen to all player interviews below.
Xavier McKinney
Tua Tagovailoa
Terrell Lewis
Jaylen Waddle
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber only content!*
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.
