National media and Alabama fans see Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry as a lockdown cornerback for the Crimson Tide, but they should not overlook his partner.
Terrion Arnold gained valuable experienced in 2022. The redshirt sophomore was primarily a safety in high school before assuming a starting role at cornerback for the Tide. He endured growing pains, but cornerbacks coach Travaris Robinson developed into a Freshman All-Southeastern Conference (league’s coaches) and Freshman All-American selection (Football Writers Association). Arnold finished last season with 45 tackles, eight pass breakups, and an interception through 11 games.
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He came in the 2021 recruiting class as a five-star with McKinstry. The Birmingham (Ala.) native mentioned how comfortable he’s become playing across from Arnold. Nick Saban spoke Tuesday about Arnold’s growth at the position, and what has him prepared for a bigger campaign in the fall. The 6-foot, 196-pounder is playing with a lot of confidence in preseason camp.
“I think anyone that gets experience playing, which he got experience last year, I think he has a better understanding,” Saban said about Arnold’s growth at cornerback. “He also has a little more maturity about what he needs to do to perform well, and there is competition at the position. He, Kool-Aid, and Trey [Amos] are all doing a good job out there. I think that’s good for everyone in terms of their improvement.”
Trey Amos, a transfer from Louisiana-Lafayette, looks to beat out Arnold for a starting job at cornerback.
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The 6-foot-1, 197-pounder played in 34 career games for the Ragin’ Cajuns. He recorded 59 tackles, 2.5 stops for loss, 14 pass breakups, a forced fumble, an interception, and a blocked kick. Amos brings athleticism, range, coverage skills, instincts, and ball skills to the position; however, Arnold has the experience playing in the Crimson Tide’s system. Coach Saban knows competition makes everyone better, but it’s good to see Arnold’s growth and desire to be an elite boundary corner to make the defense special.
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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.
