Nick Saban assesses the growth of Eli Ricks ahead of his return to LSU

Alabama saw their secondary get torched against Tennessee, with Hendon Hooker and Jalin Hyatt having career days. Change was needed the following week of Mississippi State, with Eli Ricks stepping into a starting cornerback role and excelling. He played up to the All-SEC standard many thought he would after joining the Crimson Tide via LSU.

Head coach Nick Saban addressed the growth he has seen from Ricks over the past few weeks, saying he has “gotten more comfortable” with the system Alabama is playing. Saban is hoping the cornerback can build off the success from his first start and take that into the final four games of the season.

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“I think fundamentally, we worked really hard to get Eli to understand the expectations for what we want him to do to have a good understanding of the scheme of how we’re playing and what we’re playing,” Saban said. “I think he’s developed confidence throughout the season as he’s learned more and gotten more comfortable. I think well in the last game. So, hopefully, he can build on that.”

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Ricks replaced Terrion Arnold vs. Mississippi State, playing 100% of the defensive snaps. He was targeted nine times by head coach Mike Leach, with the receivers only making one catch for 19 yards. A highly impressive starting debut in an Alabama uniform for Ricks.

Saban discusses mentality for Eli Ricks facing off vs. LSU

Saturday in Death Valley will be an important one for everyone involved with the Alabama program, with the SEC West potentially on the line. However, nobody will want to win more than Ricks, who is going up against his former team.

Saban said he wants Ricks to prepare for the game the same way he would for any other. While playing LSU will be an emotional one, it’s “important physiologically” for the cornerback to stay focused.

“I think it’s important that he just goes into this game and be himself and doesn’t think he has to do something fantastic just because he’s playing against the team he used to play for. I think that’s always important physiologically, the guys focused on what’s in front of them and do their job well.”

As it has for years now, Alabama and LSU will be a crucial game inside of the division. The winner most likely has the clearest path to Atlanta, with Ole Miss hanging in the balance.