The University of Alabama saw a standout defensive player leave its program for a Big Ten power.
Caleb Downs, a former five-star, had an impressive freshman campaign that led to him assisting the Crimson Tide to a Southeastern Conference Championship. The native Georgian led the team for total tackles (107), including a team-high 70 solo stops. He added 3.5 tackles for loss, four pass breakups, a forced fumble, and two interceptions. Downs did not look or play like a freshman and it was incredible for fans to see. He took his talents to Ohio State University in the NCAA transfer portal, but did the Tide find his replacement in the latest freshmen class. Kobe Prentice, a junior wide receiver, believes the next star is here.
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In an interview with Roger Hoover of Crimson Tide Sports Network, Prentice shines the light on four-star Red Morgan.
A native of Phenix City, Ala., Morgan is a talented defensive back. He is extremely athletic; however, Morgan also plays with physicality, instincts, and ball skills. The 6-foot, 175-pounder was one of nine in-state prospects that signed in this year’s class.
Morgan has been spectacular in spring practice, capturing the attention of teammates and coaches.
Prentice compares the freshman too Downs.
“@Rydarrius1, he’s very athletic and he’s picking up the defense really well.”
– @AlabamaFTBL WR Kobe Prentice @showtime1kp on the UA secondary.@Roger_Hoover‘s Full Interview on Thursday’s Crimson Drive driven by @NASCAR at 2 pm on @UA_CTSN: https://t.co/tgBThLFHXX pic.twitter.com/lhAQZD4RFh— Crimson Tide Sports Network (@UA_CTSN) April 10, 2024
“You have heard a lot about him, but Red is very athletic,” Prentice said to Hoover about Morgan.
“He is picking up the defense really well and it’s very impressive. He reminds me of Caleb Downs. They have different playing styles, but for a young guy that’s come in, dissected the defense, and looks the part when he’s out there … Red reminds me of Downs. Caleb came in and had a big season, but Red has done really well for us.”
Prentice said within the first three weeks of spring practice, Morgan caught a one-handed interception.
“We was like, ‘a freshman is coming out here snagging,'” Prentice said. “He is going to be special.”
Prentice believes the whole freshmen class of defensive backs will be special, but he had to highlight Morgan.
Alabama fans will get the see the alumnus of Central High School on A-Day.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
