He was not listed as a starter on the depth chart, but his effort has created a chance for him to play.
Of the players Alabama football signed in its freshmen class, Timothy “Tim” Smith was one who garnered a lot of early conversation from local media pundits and Crimson Tide fans.
People were very impressed with his game film from Sebastian (Fla.) River High School, as he displayed a burst and quickness that resembled Quinnen Williams from the 2018 campaign.
During his senior year, Smith had 62 tackles — including 32 for loss and 10 sacks.
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He also totaled four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery, en route to earning a four-star rating. Smith has developed some pass rush moves at nose tackle, but he is very good against the run. In reflecting back on his tape, there were many situations where he stripped the ball from running backs. With the Tide wanting to return to having a fierce defensive line, Smith was listed second at nose guard behind DJ Dale.
He is currently battling Ishmael Sopsher, who dropped 24 pounds this summer, for the spot.
Smith arrived at 340 pounds on his 6-foot-4 frame; however, he dropped 20 pounds and is faster at 320. Nose tackle is arguably the most important position on defense.
Players at that spot have to be discipline, in terms of gap control on run plays, while not allowing quarterbacks to step into throws within the pocket. Creating inside pressure and allowing defensive ends, outside linebackers and inside linebackers to pursue the ball and have success is ideal for a nose tackle. According to LaBryan Ray, the Tide’s defensive end said Smith is a ‘powerful lineman’ that acts older than his age.
“He (Tim Smith) is taking responsibility early on,” Ray said on Tuesday. “He is trying to do his job and understand the playbook. I have seen nothing but good things from him.”
As the battle continues between both freshmen, Smith looks to win-out at some point.
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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.
