Will Anderson discusses the improvement of Alabama LB Dallas Turner

Alabama linebacker Will Anderson has been a bright spot in the Crimson Tide’s inconsistent defense all season. His play on the edge has drawn national attention, making him a dark horse Heisman contender entering the final stretch.

During his Tuesday press conference, Will Anderson took time to praise freshman linebacker Dallas Turner. His pass rush counterpart filled in for injured Christopher Allen and Drew Sanders, showing off big upside in his first meaningful game action.

“He’s improved a lot,” said Anderson. “He watches film with me all the time, he watches some by himself, he watches with coaches. He takes football very seriously, he just goes out there and he be Dallas.”

He continued: “I think that’s what he’s really been doing. He’s been out there having fun and taking on the challenge and its been good for him so far.”

Will Anderson went on to describe his advice to Dallas Turner, who is currently following his own trajectory with early playing time.

 “I tell him all the time is ‘you don’t have to do nothing more, you don’t have to do nothing less, just go out there and be you,’” Anderson said. “Have fun. You’ve been playing football for a long time, playing football in the backyard, rec ball, high school and that’s kind of what it is. Don’t think about it too much, don’t be nervous or anything, just go out there and have fun.”

SEC coaches on Will Anderson

Will Anderson built quite the fanbase this season. Ten games into his sophomore season, all the SEC coaches seem to have strong opinions on his talent and future upside. Among those to weigh in on Will Anderson’s dominance was Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin, who provided a new nickname to the versatile defender.

“He’s arguably the most dynamic player in all of college football,” Kiffin said Wednesday on the SEC teleconference. “I call him the predator. When we played them – just tearing up everything that he’s around like the movie. So he’s a major issue.”

LSU head coach Ed Orgeron was also asked about Anderson – a player he recruited and tried to get to come to Baton Rouge – and what makes him so special.

“Phenomenal football player,” Orgeron said. “I recruited him. He’s a great young man … speed, quickness, toughness and awareness. They change up stuff they do with him. Sometimes he’s going to crash and take the back, sometimes he’s up on the quarterback. He’s great at the point-of-attack. I think he’s a first-round pick.”