Malachi Moore is about to show people he remains a force in Alabama’s defensive secondary.
He did not record the production he wanted as a sophomore, but the Trussville (Ala.) native is preparing himself for a bounce-back junior season in the fall. Moore arrived at the University of Alabama in 2020 as a four-star via Hewitt-Trussville High School. He impressed the coaching staff in preseason camp and earned the starting job at nickel.
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The 6-foot, 190-pounder earned admiration from fans and media pundits, totaling 44 tackles, four tackles for loss, six pass breakups, two quarterback hurries, three interceptions (team-high), and a fumble returned for a touchdown. He started 11 games in Alabama’s undefeated College Football Playoff National Championship season, but Moore missed the playoff because of an injury. He received Freshman All-SEC, second-team All-SEC, and Freshman All-American honors for his efforts.
Moore shared the nickel spot with Brian Branch in 2021, but he watched his teammate dominate in the role.
He played 15 games, but Moore was on special teams. He collected 17 tackles, two stops for loss, an interception, a pass breakup, and a quarterback hurry. Moore is healthy again and going through spring practice. He has experience in 26 games, but he is excited to have the effect he brought in his freshman campaign. Moore released a hype video to Twitter, highlighting his best moments of 2021.
Year ✌🏽🔙🔛🔝🔜 pic.twitter.com/LXBNgPFbXh
— Kinggchi👑 (@malachi_moore13) March 25, 2022
Branch commented on his post as he referred to Moore as “Minkah 2.0,” paying respect to former Alabama safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Minkah 2.0😤 https://t.co/pBNVjr4lc8
— Alpha🐕 (@BrianBB_1) March 25, 2022
Since his arrival to the Tide, fans have compared Moore’s game to Fitzpatrick’s.
Moore is coming after a starting position, and he looks to have the defensive backfield dominating at an elite level.
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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.
