Alabama could have one of it not the best defensive secondary in college football this season.
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Malachi Moore returns as a senior leader and knows every position in the secondary. As an in-state product, he came in the Crimson Tide’s 2020 recruiting class as a four-star from Hewitt-Trussville High School. Moore had an impressive freshman campaign; however, he is excited to finish his career with an opportunity to be a high-round draft pick. He is a preseason candidate for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, and Wuerffel Trophy. The 6-foot, 198-pounder wants another College Football Playoff National Championship. He excelled at the ‘Star’ position in nickel as a freshman, but Moore is excited to play anywhere to make the defensive backfield dangerous. He spoke about his versatility during Monday’s player interviews.
“It is fun to me moving around because it brings new challenges,” Moore said.
“I like to be able to do multiple things because you never know what could happen in a game. We have a lot of guys that are learning multiple positions and doing a great job of it just in case so we can have depth at those positions.”
Moore has been used at Star and safety in fall practice.
The biggest challenge for him is the calls made at both positions, but he embraces it. He’s expected to be a starting safety in regular (3-4 defensive alignment) packages and move to Star in the nickel look. Moore could also be the sixth defensive back on the field in the dime formation. He does not have a preference of which position he likes better, but having Moore is huge.
RELATED: Malachi Moore reveals Alabama’s defensive mantra
“Not really,” Moore said on if there is a position he feels more comfortable between safety and Star. “The Star position I have been playing longer so I know the adjustments and things that’s coming. Safety is also fun for me to play. It makes me excited when I get to move around.”
Moore is an unselfish player.
His mindset will allow Nick Saban and Kevin Steele to get the best defensive backs on the field. We could see the return of a dangerous secondary, especially with Moore roaming around.
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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.
