Jaylen Moody deserved to be a full-time starter in Alabama’s defense and is proving it.
As a former three-star recruit in the 2018 signing class, he defines waiting patiently but constantly working on his craft. He had competition for the starting weakside “Will” linebacker position, but Moody’s experience, consistency, and hard work won.
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He has shined throughout the Crimson Tide’s first two games.
Moody led the team for total tackles (six) against Utah State, including one for loss. He also recorded one pressure of Logan Bonner in a 55-0 victory for the Tide. The 6-foot-2, 225-pounder continued his success in the Texas heat versus the Longhorns.
Moody stuck his nose in on several plays, sharing the team lead for total tackles (10). He nailed Bijan Robinson and other running backs for Texas for negative plays on third down, but uncharacteristic penalties by the Tide negated his plays.
Moody assisted Alabama in holding the Longhorns to 79 yards rushing, including 57 yards from Robinson.
He recorded a sack of Hudson Card and forced Texas’ offense to convert three of 12 third downs. The fifth-year senior made plays all over the field. He was the most consistent performer Tide fans saw on defense throughout the game. Moody leads the team for total tackles (16) after two matchups. He has two tackles for loss, a sack, and a quarterback hurry. Moody knows how to play his role, he’s gained consistency, he has Nick Saban’s trust, and he’s providing the thump Alabama needs on defense.
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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.
