5-Star T.J. Yeldon Chooses Alabama over Auburn: Why He Made the Right Decision

With the college football season coming to a close, majority of the focus will now be on recruiting. It's always important that teams are able to recruit well and are able to replace the talented upper classman with young blood.

Recently the Alabama Crimson Tide were able to steal a talented running back from their rival the Auburn Tigers. T.J. Yeldon, who had committed to Auburn, switched his commitment and will become a member of the Crimson Tide this season.

It may have shocked the college football world, but it was the right decision for the 5-star recruit.

Here's why.

Will Be Able To Play Right Away

There are talented running backs on both teams right now, but Yeldon has the better opportunity to receive playing time right away at Alabama.

He of course would be splitting carries with Eddie Lacy, but with Trent Richardson likely leaving for the NFL, the door opens up for Yeldon. With Auburn, you still have a talented back like Michael Dyer who will continue to be the workhorse for the Tigers offense.

Yeldon of course will have to earn his touches, but with the way Alabama runs the football, he should be more productive a lot sooner with the Crimson Tide.

Gus Malzahn Is Gone

If you're an offensive player and the offensive coordinator leaves, you have to reconsider joining that school.

Malzahn is one of the brightest offensive minds in all of college football, and he left to become the head coach for Arkansas State. 

This had to play a factor in his decision, as you don't know who will be calling the plays next season.

I'm sure Auburn will be able to find a solid replacement for Malzahn, but it's almost impossible to fill his shoes.

Better Team Right Now

Auburn is still a great team and will get back on track soon.

But Alabama is the better team right now and has a chance for greater success right now. The Tigers are extremely young and probably a good year or two away from competing again in the SEC.

The Crimson Tide will be competing for SEC championships and a national championship every year, especially with a top-five recruiting class coming in this season.

The Tigers are still a top SEC team, but the Crimson Tide are elite right now and better overall.

Randy Chambers is a B/R Featured Columnist that covers College Football and the NFL. You can contact him @Randy_Chambers or [e-mail]