Alabama has a bonafide superstar who’s leading the defense as a freshman.
Caleb Downs is putting the college football world on notice of his excellence.
The native Georgian came to the University of Alabama as a five-star safety in the recent recruiting cycle.
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Downs arrived as an early enrollee and made plays in spring practice. Nick Saban praised his maturity and discipline, and it has allowed him to become a starter. Downs earned the starting role at strong safety in fall camp and has been great through six games. He finished with seven total tackles in the Crimson Tide’s 26-20 comeback victory over Texas A&M at Kyle Field.
Downs finished second on the team for tackles and shared the lead for solo stops (five). The 6-foot, 203-pounder also made a critical interception, generating his second takeaway of the season. After the Tide lost possession on a Jalen Milroe interception, Downs got the ball back for Alabama with a pick off Aggies’ quarterback Max Johnson. Downs’ efforts led to the Tide tying the matchup at 17 in the third quarter, as Milroe connected with wide receiver Jermaine Burton for a 15-yard touchdown.
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He’s earned SEC Freshman of the Week twice and Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week. Downs leads Alabama’s defense in total tackles (47). He also carries a tackle for loss, a pass breakup, a forced fumble, and two interceptions.
Alabama fans knew he had the potential to be good; however, it has been remarkable to see it up close. Downs plays with instincts, a polished mindset, intensity, and maturity about himself.
He can become a Freshman All-American by the end of the season if he continues to excel.
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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.
