Kelly talks Iron Bowl

Knoxville (Tenn.) Webb School defensive back Todd Kelly has visited Alabama more than any school besides Tennessee during his recruitment, and he was back in Tuscaloosa on Saturday to take in the Crimson Tide's annual rivalry contest with Auburn.

"It was real good and an impressive, big win," Kelly said. "It got them to the SEC Championship game and they definitely had a good vibe going on down there.

"Down there everyone knows it is all about winning. They focus on the SEC championship, but mostly winning the national championship. Them winning the SEC Championship is expected every year, that's how they view it. That's one thing I absolutely notice."

Alabama's run of success has helped them attract top talent to games this fall, and Kelly has met other elite defensive backs in the 2014 class as a result of his visits to Tuscaloosa.

"Me and Marlon Humphrey are pretty cool," Kelly said. "Every time I go down there I always see him there, so we have gotten to be pretty good friends."

The frequency of his trips to Alabama has also given Kelly a comfort level and familiarity with the Crimson Tide's coaching staff.

"Every time I go down there I get to talk to Coach [Nick] Saban for awhile so that's always a good experience," Kelly said. "They said they would put me at corner. They say I am built just like the cornerbacks they have there now, and that's where I would fit in best in their defense."

The 6-foot, 190-pound Kelly is rated four stars and is listed as a safety prospect. He has schools from across the country lining up for his services, but has yet to name any favorites.

"Once I go out to the West Coast - I am supposed to be going out in the spring to visit some colleges that have offered - I think I will be able to make a list," Kelly said. "[Alabama] is going to the SEC Championship and they are always a good team. I like to win, so they are definitely up there right now, but I couldn't place them in any certain order."

Tennessee is the hometown school and the alma mater of his father. They have been long-considered a top contender for Kelly and he commented on the Volunteer's search for a new head coach after the firing of Derek Dooley.

"I haven't been watching it too much," Kelly said. "All I know is here in Knoxville everyone wants Coach [Jon] Gruden. I know coaching staffs come and go."

Saturday's visit to Alabama is the last one Kelly has planned this fall, but he expects more opportunities to visit campuses this winter will pop up.