Five-star duo signs with Alabama
Alabama does it again! The Crimson Tide received commitments from James Smith, five-star defensive lineman and Qua Russaw, five-star linebacker from Carver High School in Montgomery, on Wednesday afternoon. The teammates, and top two recruits in the state, announced their decision to sign with the Crimson Tide on ESPNU.
The finalists for the duo also included Auburn, Florida and Georgia. Both took their official visits to each one of the SEC programs. They went on countless trips throughout the process and always maintained their plan to attend the same school.
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Highlights of Alabama DL signee James Smith
Highlights of Crimson Tide signee Qua Russaw
Alabama keeping the best in-state
Several members of the Alabama coaching staff were critical in the pursuit of Smith and Russaw. Charles Kelly (who has joined Colorado’s staff as the defensive coordinator) was instrumental in helping the Tide sign the pair of elite targets. Nick Saban, Freddie Roach (defensive line) Coleman Hutzler (outside linebackers) and Pete Golding (defensive coordinator) were also key components in their recruitment down the home stretch.
The additions of Russaw and Smith to class will likely cement the Crimson Tide as the No.1 recruiting class in the country. It currently has the lead according to the On3 Sports Consensus Team Rankings.
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The duo join an in-state class that also features Jahlil Hurley, Top 100 cornerback from Florence, Yhonzae Pierre, Top 100 EDGE from Eufaula, Tony Mitchell, Top 100 safety from Thompson, Wilkin Formby, Top 100 offensive tackle from Northridge (Tuscaloosa), Hunter Osborne, four-star defensive lineman from Hewitt-Trussville, and Ryqueze McElderry, four-star offensive guard from Anniston.
Take a look: Alabama signing class!
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Signing Capsules and video highlights on each signee!
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