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Alabama freshman quarterback Blake Barnett speaks to the media during an NCAA college football national signing day press conference, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Alabama freshman quarterback Blake Barnett speaks to the media during an NCAA college football national signing day press conference, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)Brynn Anderson/Associated Press

Alabama Football Recruiting: Top 2015 Recruits Committed to Crimson Tide

R. Cory SmithFeb 5, 2015

Alabama and the No. 1 ranking seem to go hand in hand. While the Crimson Tide didn't finish the 2014 season at the top of the rankings, they still bring in the top class to regain a stranglehold on college football.

Nick Saban's classes have been ranked No. 1 by 247Sports since 2011 and retained that mark in 2015. Headlined by the Elite 11-winning pro-style quarterback Blake Barnett, who is already enrolled, the Tide continue to roll in recruiting.

Following national signing day, here's a look at the top recruits from the latest Bama class.

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Blake Barnett, Pro-Style Quarterback

Getting one of the best quarterbacks in the country never hurt anyone. After Blake Sims filled in admirably after A.J. McCarron graduated, the Tide now have a potential quarterback to lead the offense.

With offensive weapons like Derrick Henry and Calvin Ridley already around him, Barnett has plenty to work with in Bama's offense. Drew Champlin of AL.com offered his take on the signal-caller:

"

Barnett emerged as Alabama's top quarterback target in June and committed shortly after a visit to Tuscaloosa. Barnett is enrolled for spring practice and will get a fair shot to compete for the starting job with four returning scholarship players. He was one of Alabama's top recruiters among commits and he'll probably be a top player host for recruiting visits going forward. Alabama was looking for a true dual-threat quarterback with a big arm and found that with Barnett.

"

Jacob Coker will likely be looking to sit at the top of the depth chart this year, but Barnett has an outside shot to take the reins immediately. His combination of talent and a huge arm gives Lane Kiffin a perfect fit for his offense.

If he doesn't start in the opener against Wisconsin, Barnett might still earn time during the season. In the tough SEC, a trial by fire might be necessary for the young signal-caller. Even with the difficult tests ahead, look for Barnett to thrive with the Tide.

Calvin Ridley, Wide Receiver

If there was any bigger hole to fill for Alabama than quarterback—again—it was replacing Amari Cooper. By adding Ridley, the Tide now have another sure-handed receiver for Barnett to build chemistry with.

ESPN Stats & Info points out just how crucial the commitment was for Bama:

247Sports also has him listed as the No. 1 receiver, though he has a smaller frame than fellow standouts like George Campbell and Preston Williams. Thanks to his breakaway speed and playmaking ability, Ridley should help keep the offense dynamic moving forward.

On a team that consistently churns out top wideouts like Julio Jones and Cooper, "Showtime" has a chance to be the next to break out.

Kendall Sheffield, Cornerback

One huge component in the Tide winning another recruiting title was adding Kendall Sheffield. The No. 4 cornerback in the country will now pair up with Minkah Fitzpatrick to improve the secondary for years to come.

Despite his early commitment, Sheffield's pledge to the Tide was in question heading into national signing day. Taylor Hamm of 247Sports noted Texas A&M was still courting Sheffield ahead of Wednesday:

Along with his talents on the football field, Sheffield is also a great track athlete. As a hurdler, the 18-year-old posted an impressive time of 13.85 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles, according to 247Sports.

Equipped with elite athleticism and agility, Sheffield will fit in perfectly with Alabama. Expect him to make a huge impact when he finally gets his chance to shine on the college football stage.

Follow @RCorySmith on Twitter.

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