Alabama rested Deontae Lawson and Jaylen Key for another week, but a defensive back returned from injury for the Crimson Tide against Chattanooga at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Devonta Smith, a junior, dressed out and played versus the Mocs in a 66-10 victory for the Tide. Smith, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, was projected as the starting free safety but suffered a foot injury in fall camp. The former four-star in the 2021 class brings versatility to the defense. He’s watched Jaylen Key make plays all year, but Smith made his return on senior day for the Tide.
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He collected four tackles against Chattanooga in his first game of the season.
Alabama will look for more from Smith as he gets healthier.
Sources confirmed to Touchdown Alabama Magazine last week that Smith was ‘ahead of schedule’ in his recovery process. The projected game for Smith to see action was against the Mocs — per sources — and that is what happened.
Alabama will get Lawson and Key for the Iron Bowl, but it is thankful to have a valuable defender back.
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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
