Alabama Football: Tide Snags Brandon Hill, Top Rated Offensive Lineman for 2012

Larry Burton (Syndicated Writer) With two offensive linemen injured against the LSU Tigers, it was apparent that the Alabama Crimson Tide could use another hand to shore up that group and this past Thursday, they got one.

Brandon Hill of St George High School in Collierville, Tenn., decided to go ahead and pull the trigger for the Tide after going to Tuscaloosa along with so many other high school prospects for the LSU game.

He is a huge high school senior, standing 6'6'' and weighing over 352 pounds. The good news about a player that big is that there's not a lot of fat on that frame and he is well conditioned and full of muscle.

He's projected to be a great offensive right tackle prospect, but at his school now, he also plays nose guard and is a devastating tackler. He could also learn to play guard if needed.

In fact, his footwork is better as a nose guard than a tackle, but with great coaching, he can get that down quickly.

Hill attended the LSU game with several other high school players looking at the Crimson Tide. Not only did the huge crowd and exciting game electrify Hill, but it was also apparent they could have used a hand on the offensive line.

In the past, Hill's selection of Alabama would have been a surprise to anyone in his family. He had not really considered Alabama and had never been to Bryant-Denny Stadium before visiting there for a football camp in July.

He was immediately noticed by coach Nick Saban and the staff and he also became noticed by other schools as well.

For a time, it looked like he was lock for Mississippi State as they were the first to show him a ton of interest and offer for a scholarship. He liked Dan Mullen and could see himself at State.

But then came the Alabama camp. He was blown away by the facilities and was instantly enamored by Saban, who told Hill he could see him fitting in with the future of this Alabama team.

Though flattered, he didn't commit right away and even had Georgia make a hard run at him as well.

All told, he had 10 offers from schools like Nebraska, Tennessee, Ole Miss and Kentucky.

Hill is currently being treated for a torn meniscus. That is the soft tissue underneath the knee cap. That is an injury that has no lasting effect and is quickly recovered form.

He is the 20th commitment for this class which is quickly filling up. There are thought to be just five places left open.