Alabama’s defense has an opportunity to show marquee improvement this weekend.
In this edition of Stephen’s Report, I spoke to outside linebackers’ coach Christian Robinson in Wednesday’s media availability for assistant coaches.
RELATED: Jalen Milroe details defensive challenge Tennessee presents Alabama
He outlined the biggest playmaker for Tennessee in the “Third Saturday of October” rivalry game. Dylan Sampson, a junior, is an absolute stud at running back for the Volunteers. He is averaging nearly six yards per carry (5.92) and 116.5 yards per game.
Sampson has 699 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns through five matchups.
The Baton Rouge (La.) native carried Tennessee to a 23-17 overtime victory over Florida in its rivalry game with 112 yards rushing and three touchdowns. He has four 100-plus yard performances this year, but will he earn a fifth against the Tide?
Kane Wommack, Alabama’s defensive coordinator, has his work cut out for him to stop Sampson.
I broke down the challenge thee Tide faces with Sampson and updated the status of Kobe Prentice and Kendrick Law.
Alabama is set to take on the Vols at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn.
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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.
