Alabama Football: The Coin Is Not Flipped, Xzavier Dickson Commits to Tide

The 4-star prospect Xzavier Dickson, the fifth-ranked defensive end nationally (22nd overall in the nation), had previously stated that choosing between Alabama and Georgia was just too close.  He liked both schools, liked the coaches and liked the conference.  The Georgia native, however, stated during the Under Armor All-American game that "it was just too big a risk" to leave it to a coin flip.  He also stated that the main reason for his decision was the coaching staff at Alabama.  Being a defensive end, Dickson most likely made his decision when Chris Rumph, defensive line coach from Clemson, was announced to be coaching for the Tide next season.  Rumph's decision will also impact the recruiting of Jadeveon Clowney.

Xzavier Dickson is undersized compared to the current Alabama defensive ends, but perhaps that is exactly what Alabama has been looking for.  The current ends have been fairly unproductive.  Though they have been getting some pressure, they have accrued very few quarterback hurries and a meager amount of sacks this year, ranking 54th in the nation with 27.  The line was not able to perform until Courtney Upshaw played the last few games of the year as a defensive end, lined up on the right side.  From there, the 263-pound outside linebacker wreaked havoc.  Judging by Upshaw's success, Dickson (6'4", 242 lbs.) would be a nice fit as a pass rusher for the Crimson Tide.  With a year of college strength training Dickson is sure to add a good 20 lbs. of muscle weight, which shouldn't affect his speed.  

Dickson also has elite speed and agility, enough so that he can shuck much stronger (and slower) blockers to stuff the run.  Stopping the run has been weak this year compared to 2009, though they were able to secure ninth in the nation allowing only 110 yards rushing per game.  

It would also not be much of a surprise if Dickson sees some time playing at outside linebacker, though this change would depend a lot on his ability to grasp Nick Saban's complicated zone defense schemes.  Dickson is known to have great football smarts, but only time will tell how he adjusts to football in the SEC.

Overall, Alabama has landed a very good defensive prospect.  With his size and agility he may yet become one of the many versatile players on the Crimson Tide.  With this commitment, Xzavier Dickson has become the 14th 4-star recruit to commit to the Tide.

Alabama Crimson Tide football is looking brighter, and we just may feel some 2009 déjà vu soon.