Henry To’oto’o delivered his best performance as an Alabama player to this point.
He was one of several players Crimson Tide fans wanted to see step up.
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The talented linebacker has endured some struggles, but he made plays versus Mississippi State.
To’oto’o quietly posted 13 total tackles (team-high) in Alabama’s 49-9 rout of the Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium. He led all Tide defenders in solo tackles (seven) and had 1.5 tackles for loss with a sack. To’oto’o assisted a defense that kept Mississippi State out of the end zone and under 300 yards (299) offensively. He rendered its rushing attack to -1 yard and helped Alabama force three turnovers — including one returned for a touchdown.
As a transfer from Tennessee, To’oto’o pushed the Tide to excel on third-down defense (nine wins; Bulldogs were 7/16) while creating seven sacks, nine tackles for loss, and two quarterback hurries.
He was crucial for the defensive spark as the Tide is finding an identity. Consistency is important for To’oto’o and others moving forward. On Sunday, he earned National Defensive Player of the Week honors from the Walter Camp Football Foundation.
He will face his former team this week at Bryant-Denny Stadium. We will see how To’oto’o does against the Volunteers.
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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.
