Nick Saban explains trust in Malachi Moore: 'He's never disappointed us'

Since his arrival on campus in 2020, Malachi Moore has been a staple of the Alabama defense. He became a starter as a freshman and, now in his senior year, continues to make an impact for the Crimson Tide.

Moore earned Nick Saban’s trust during his first season with Alabama as he helped the Crimson Tide win a national championship. He’s also moved around over the course of his career, which showcased his versatility.

Whatever Saban needed Moore to do, he did it well. That’s what has made Moore a reliable piece for the Tide over the years.

“Malachi’s always been a guy that we have a lot of confidence in, we always had a lot of trust,” Saban said of Moore. “He’s a smart player, played multiple positions. Every time that he’s had to play, he’s played extremely well. Last year, he played mostly in dime when we played dime. This year, he’s playing all the time, safety and star.

“I’ve never, ever considered Malachi in his entire career since he’s been here as a freshman as not being a starter — and a very good one that we could trust and rely on to go out and do a really good job for us, and he’s never disappointed us.”

Moore is in the midst of his biggest season since his freshman year, totaling 39 tackles and 4.0 tackles for loss through nine games. He also has an interception and four passes defended. All told, for his career, Moore has 130 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and five picks.

Now, he’s gearing up for Senior Day — his last home game as a college safety. As for what could lie ahead, Moore said he’s been focused on the season and hasn’t put much thought into it. Still, Saturday’s Senior Day ceremony is sure to be an emotional one.

“I really haven’t thought about it too much,” Moore said. “Senior Day, it’s kind of surreal to see how quickly everything has gone by so fast. I’m kind of just taking it in each day at a time. I’ll probably have a little extra emotion running through me on Saturday coming out the tunnel not knowing if it’s going to be my last time or not. I’m looking forward to it.”

Alabama will take on Chattanooga to close out the home portion of the schedule in its penultimate game. It marks a final tune-up before next week’s Iron Bowl and, on Dec. 2, the SEC Championship.