Crimson Tide Stadium
Crimson Tide Champions: Top Athletes from the University of Alabama
MILLIONS
September 18, 2024
The University of Alabama, steeped in a rich history of sports excellence, has long been a powerhouse in collegiate athletics. From football to gymnastics, the Crimson Tide has produced a lineage of athletes who have not only dominated the college scene but have also made significant marks on the professional stage. This article celebrates those champions whose performances have elevated the prestige of Alabama's athletic programs.
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Bryce Young
Bryce Young's collegiate career was astonishing. After backing up Mac Jones, he stepped into the starting quarterback role and quickly made history. Young set Alabama single-season records with 4,872 passing yards and 47 touchdowns, earning him the Heisman Trophy.
His performance not only showcased his skill but also his leadership, as he served as a permanent team captain during his standout 2021 season. Young's excellence on the field was recognized with multiple awards, including the Maxwell and Davey O'Brien Awards.
After an illustrious college career, Bryce Young was selected by the Carolina Panthers. His skill set and leadership qualities were expected to bring a new dynamic to the Panthers' offense. Young's rookie season included notable performances but also the typical challenges a first-year quarterback faces in the NFL.
Da'Shawn Hand
Throughout his time with the Crimson Tide, Hand was known for his ability to disrupt plays and was a critical part of the team's defensive strategy. He played a significant role in helping Alabama secure two national championships and three SEC titles during his tenure. His performance peaked in 2017 when he demonstrated leadership and was pivotal in leading Alabama to key victories, including an SEC championship win.
His early NFL career showed promise with notable performances, including his first professional sack in a game against the Dallas Cowboys. However, Hand's career has been challenged by injuries, which have impacted his ability to contribute consistently to the field. Despite these setbacks, he continues to be a part of the NFL, having signed with the Miami Dolphins and working to regain his form from his collegiate peak.
Keanu Koht
Keanu Koht, a linebacker for the University of Alabama, hails from Vero Beach, Florida, where he was recognized as a four-star recruit before committing to Alabama. Known for his athleticism and versatility on the field, Koht has shown potential in both defense and special teams roles during his time with the Crimson Tide.
Despite battling injuries early in his collegiate career, he has demonstrated resilience by returning to full strength and contributing to the team in recent games. Koht's performance in 2023 included notable tackles, showcasing his ongoing development and impact on the field.
Dallas Turner
Dallas Turner has made a significant impact as a linebacker for the University of Alabama. Since joining the Crimson Tide, he has been recognized for his athletic prowess and strategic play on the field. In 2021, Turner was honored with Freshman All-America accolades and was named to the All-SEC Freshman Team, highlighting his immediate contribution to the team. His freshman year statistics were impressive, featuring 30 tackles, 10 of which were for a loss and 8.5 sacks, underscoring his ability to disrupt opposing offenses effectively.
By 2022, Turner's role had expanded significantly. He played in all 13 games, starting ten, and recorded 37 tackles, including eight for loss, and secured four sacks. His dynamic performance didn't just include tackling; he also demonstrated his skills in forcing turnovers and pressuring quarterbacks. Turner's excellence on the field is not just in statistics but also in leadership, as evidenced by his selection as a team captain, which speaks to his influence and respect among his teammates and coaches.
Calvin Ridley
Calvin Ridley's tenure at the University of Alabama was marked by impressive performances that quickly established him as a standout receiver. Arriving at Alabama in 2015, Ridley set the school record for receptions and receiving yards by a freshman, which had previously been held by Amari Cooper. His freshman year concluded with 89 receptions for 1,045 yards and 7 touchdowns, earning him spots on the Sporting News and SEC All-Freshman teams as well as the All-SEC Second Team by the Associated Press.
Throughout his college career, Ridley continued to be a key player for the Crimson Tide, showcasing his ability as a big-play threat. By the end of his sophomore year, he had amassed 72 catches for 769 yards and seven touchdowns, affirming his reputation for making crucial plays in significant games. His performance in 2017 remained strong, with Ridley making 63 receptions for 967 yards and five touchdowns, contributing significantly to Alabama's national championship-winning season. His consistency and impact on the field led him to forgo his senior year to enter the NFL Draft in 2018, where he was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round.
Conclusion
The athletes highlighted from the University of Alabama demonstrate the university's ability to develop top-tier talent across various aspects of college football. Each player, with their unique contributions and achievements, underscores the breadth and depth of Alabama's program in nurturing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field. Their stories of perseverance, athletic excellence, and leadership continue to inspire current students and athletes, setting a high standard for future generations.