Wanted to provide a quick run down on the recruits I watched at the Under Armour practices today. It's always different watching live performances. I concentrated on a handful of players today.
First off, the overall talent is very good. No position lacks talent. Offensive line appears to be the most gifted overall, but it's really close. A few notes...
Josh Garnett: the Washington product moves even better in person than he does on film. Fantastic quickness for an offensive lineman! He could play anywhere along the line. He's also much more physical than many of the "athletic" linemen usually are. He pancaked one defensive lineman during a pass blocking drill.
Vadal Alexander: the Buford, GA offensive tackle is the traditional road grader that will fit in well in Tuscaloosa. Very powerful.
Jessamen Dunker: the Gator commitment moves extremely well for a traditional right tackle. He's adept at pulling and trapping. He won't wait long to play in Gainesville.
Moving to defensive line...
Few players move like Dante Fowler, Jr. The Seminoles commitment knows how to work an offensive lineman and create sacks. He's quick and relentless.
Issac Gross from Batesville, MS (South Panola) will be an impact player at Ole Miss. This defensive end brings the energy to the field, and his first step can be a lethal threat to opposing offensive linemen. He's a player that's hard not to root for.
Moving to the wide receivers and defensive backs...
If you have not heard of Amari Cooper, you will next year. The Miami (Northwestern) wide receiver is incredible at gaining separation in tight spaces. He scored three consecutive touchdowns during one-on-ones. 'Bama fans should be very happy.
Brian Poole just beats up opposing wide receivers at the line of scrimmage. Incredible strength for a young man his size. Smaller receivers rarely gain any room to make a catch. Great competitor, and he's a joy to watch. It will be interesting to see where he eventually signs.
Ronald Darby accelerates in and out of his cuts like few players can. He's a lock to return kicks and punts for Notre Dame. Defensively, he's still raw, but improving. He's ultra competitive much like Poole. His speed allows him to make plays most cornerbacks simply cannot.
Eddie Williams is yet another Floridian headed to ' Bama. He's a safety, but he played bump coverage like a cornerback. He's very long and aggressive.
Anxious to watch practice tomorrow.
