Several NFL teams were represented at Bryant-Denny Stadium last week for one reason.
Alabama football has consistently provided the pros with successful running backs.
Mark Ingram started the trend under head coach Nick Saban, and it grew from there.
After watching Najee Harris get selected at No. 24 overall in April, pro scouts filled the front row of seats in the press box to see the next star.
Brian Robinson Jr. did not disappoint versus the Mississippi Rebels. Student-athletes have more power than ever in college football. The transfer portal and NIL make it easy for players to leave schools and start over if they are not getting enough attention. During a time where complaining makes sense, Robinson has demonstrated patience beyond his years.
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He remained committed to the program he signed to in 2017 as a true freshman.
No matter how uncomfortable it was, Robinson waited behind Damien Harris, Bo Scarbrough, Josh Jacobs, and Najee Harris for an opportunity to be Alabama’s No. 1 rusher.
He earned the starting job in fall camp and is capturing the attention of pro teams with his versatility. The 6-foot-1, 225-pounder recorded a touchdown catch versus Florida. He put together some nice outings against Miami, Mercer, and Florida, but Robinson pounded Mississippi’s defensive front for 60 minutes.
NFL scouts witnessed Ole Miss’ athletes on the ground for four quarters. Robinson had a game reminiscent of Trent Richardson and Derrick Henry.
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He turned in a career-high 171 yards rushing with four touchdowns on 36 carries.
Robinson told reporters after the matchup that it felt like old-school football. He was the reason the Rebels’ offense could not establish a rhythm. Alabama dominated time of possession and earned a 42-21 victory. The Tuscaloosa native won several individual honors — including Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week, Reese’s Senior Bowl Offensive Player of the Week, and SEC Offensive Player of the Week.
He also earned Player of the Week honors from the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff.
Most had Robinson projected as a second-round pick. He played like a first-rounder versus Mississippi, and he could rise to that status if it continues against Texas A&M. He is tied for first in the SEC with six rushing touchdowns.
Robinson leads the Tide in rushing with 379 yards on 73 carries. He is averaging 95 yards per game and will get stronger as the season progresses. Things are about to get interesting for the fifth-year senior.
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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.
