Five Alabama Players That Will Surprise For the Tide in 2009

(Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

After watching Alabama's spring game, I noticed something. I noticed that there were players who hardly played last year making an impact at A-Day.

These players didn't look like they had just stepped up to the plate, instead they acted like they had been playing first string their whole career.

I have decided to choose five players who I believe will be a surprise at Alabama, despite never starting as freshmen or sophomores.

These players, I believe, will prove that there is always a player worth starting.

5. Earl Alexander, WR

Earl Alexander has had his moments in the sun while playing for Alabama. He has gotten to play some, but anytime he got to play they never threw him the ball.

He is a big, physical wide receiver who can make plays. He might not be the fastest guy on the field, but if you ask any wide receiver in the NFL, they will tell you it is about technique, not speed.

4. Lorenzo Washington, DL

Lorenzo Washington has gotten to play his share of games during his tenure at Alabama. He impressed me in several games that he got to play in, yet he has not been able to play as much because Bobby Greenwood was starting ahead of him last season.

Bobby Greenwood graduated, and Lorenzo Washington is a strong, physical defensive lineman that is not afraid to get in the game and make a play. He should not really be a surprise, but he should show us how good he is for the first time by starting.

3. Ali Sharrief, DB

Ali Sharrief has gotten to play very few games in his tenure at Alabama because Rashad Johnson always beat him out for the spot. Now Rashad Johnson is gone, so Ali Sharrief has stepped up to the spot.

He looked pretty good at A-Day, but I believe he will be a surprise at Alabama. He won't make an immediate impact, but about the second or third game of the season he will start making an impact.

2. Brian Motley, OL

Brian Motley has not been able to play much in his career at Alabama, except on special teams. Yet, the Brian Motley I saw at A-Day really impressed me. He had some great blocks during the game.

I think he will make a huge impact during the 2009 season. He will finally get his chance to prove that he is just as good as any other linemen.

1. Marquis Maze, WR

Marquis Maze impressed me more than anyone at A-Day. Whether it was his speed or technique, he was impressive. I think everyone best knows him as the guy Greg McElroy threw his first touchdown pass to during the Iron Bowl.

I think he will get to play a lot at wide receiver, and I also believe they will put him at running back during certain plays. He will be the biggest surprise for Alabama during the 2009 season.

I think all these players will be a surprise at Alabama. They will prove that all players in the NCAA have a chance to start if they keep trying their hardest.

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