Farrell Freshman 15: Nos. 4-6
Farrell Freshman Fifteen:
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The skinny: No. 126 overall, the No. 7 inside linebacker and the No. 19 recruit from California in 2015, Smith originally planned to take a little more time before making his college decision, but upon realizing that USC was the school for him, he made his commitment to the Trojans in May. At USC, Smith has been one of the biggest surprises of the season, as he is currently the leading tackler for the Trojans with 62, plus he has added three interceptions, included a return for a touchdown, one sack and one fumble recovery.
Farrell's take: Smith had his coming out party in the win against Utah this past weekend, but he has been good and consistent all year long. He was just outside the Rivals100 mainly because of questions about his lateral ability and quick-twitch athleticism, but he takes such good angles, he's so physical in shedding blocks and he diagnoses plays so well that he overcomes any lack of natural speed.
4
WR
Coconut Creek (Fla.) Monarch | Five-star
The skinny: No. 9 overall, the No. 1 wide receiver and the No. 4 recruit from Florida in 2015, Ridley, was an early commitment to the Crimson Tide despite having offers from coast-to-coast. Rumors persisted through his senior season and leading up to National Signing Day, but he stuck with his word and signed with Alabama. Ridley has stepped right into the Alabama offense this fall, with 45 receptions for 525 yards and three touchdowns.
Farrell's take: Ridley is ahead of the freshman pace of Julio Jones and Amari Cooper, so that's heady stuff. Ridley was always an elite prospect in high school and a no-brainer five-star for us from the start and others followed suit. He was an accomplished route runner, had solid size and amazing hands and just needed to fill out and find his way into the Alabama offense. So far, so good.
Mike Farrell
National Recruiting Director
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