Alabama’s defensive secondary had one of its best games of the season against Mississippi State.
It created 15 pass breakups and allowed two completions over 20 yards.
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Eli Ricks played a massive role in the Crimson Tide’s 30-6 victory over the Bulldogs at Bryant-Denny Stadium. As a transfer from Louisiana State University, the California native earned his first career start at cornerback for the Tide. He prepared throughout the week of practice and brought the energy that Alabama needed on defense. Ricks forced five incomplete passes, including four breakups to share the team lead. He separated wide receivers from the ball, played with perfect technique, got his head turned to the ball, and did not commit a penalty. The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder elevated the performances of Kool-Aid McKinstry (four breakups), Brian Branch (two breakups), DeMarcco Hellams (two breakups), and Malachi Moore (two breakups).
Ricks earned recognition from Alabama’s coaching staff, Pro Football Focus, and Maxwell Football Club.
Branch, a junior defensive back, raved about Ricks’ performance in Tuesday’s media availability for players.
He said Ricks showed the ability to be a shutdown defender in fall camp.
“Eli played phenomenal,” Branch said. “Every pass that was thrown his way, he shut it down. I knew he was capable of doing it, but for him to come out in his first game and do that, it’s great. I feel like big things are coming Eli’s way.”
He was a Freshman All-American at LSU, but Ricks showed Nick Saban he can ball out at Alabama.
Crimson Tide fans are hopeful he can continue performing at a high 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.
