Vonn Bell: Does Nick Saban, Alabama Hold Edge over Ohio State for 5-Star DB?

Urban Meyer and Ohio State have been major players in the recruitment of 5-star safety Vonn Bell, but it appears as if Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide may have taken the lead for his commitment.

According to Aaron Suttles of TideSports.com, the Crimson Tide are in a great spot in regards to being able to land the 5-star safety:

Sources indicated that it's down to Alabama and Ohio State with the Crimson Tide in great shape. Bell isn't expected to take an official visit before his decision. The fact that he won't be on Ohio State's campus before his decision coupled with his multiple visits to Alabama this season is a strong indication that the Crimson Tide is in great position.

This is a big report for the Tide, because Bell has what it takes to be an extremely efficient safety at the college level.

He's a bit on the smaller side at 5'11.5'', 190 pounds, but he still has plenty of time to grow and add bulk in the weight room. Bell also runs a 4.45 40, according to 247Sports, so he has very good speed for the position.

247Sports also has Tennessee listed as a favorite for Bell's commitment, along with Ohio State and Alabama, but at this point, it seems like the Crimson Tide hold the edge.

Frankly, there's not a lot to dislike about Alabama if you're Bell.

It boasts one of the best defenses in the nation year after year, Saban is arguably the best coach in college football and the Crimson Tide can provide Bell with a realistic opportunity to compete for the National Championship on a yearly basis.

Saban can also point to former stud safety Mark Barron as an example of what Bell could accomplish at Alabama. Barron totaled 229 tackles, four sacks, 12 interceptions and one touchdown during his time with the Crimson Tide. He was picked No. 7 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2012 NFL draft.

While one could argue that Meyer and OSU are well on the way to that level—considering the Buckeyes' 12-0 season and Meyer's championship experience—the fact of the matter is that Alabama is at that point now, and they will be for a long time. We think Ohio State can be an elite program, but we know Alabama already is one.

Suttles' sources are saying that Alabama has the edge, and it's pretty easy to see why.

Meyer and Ohio State have a ton to offer elite recruits, but even they aren't on Alabama's level—yet.