RB Ford prepping for Bama

Sarasota, Fla. running back Mike Ford committed to Alabama back in January and signed with the Tide in February. The 6-foot-2, 205-pounder with 4.48-second speed is now working on his eligibility at Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Virginia. Has the time away caused Ford to waver on his decision?

"I'm still committed to Alabama," he said. "That's where my heart has been and they've been with me since 10th grade. They knew my situation grade-wise and test-wise and said they'll stick by me and they have been doing a good job of it. That's one of the reasons I chose them, that and the school atmosphere, surroundings and everyone was really nice."

What does the No. 17 running back in the country last year think about Hargrave?

"It's not hard, going through the workout drills is painful and tiring, but I know it's actually getting us in shape. As days go on, we've gotten better and we continue to get better and better," he said. "Actually it's been kind of a good adjustment because everybody is in the same situation and it caused us to all get to know each other really quick and become one unit."

What are Ford's other thoughts of the Virginia institution?

"The military part is kind of easy except for the marching because you've got to stay on beat and turn and face and stuff, but you catch on after a while and I think I've got it down pat now," he said. "I also just like how it helps me to be disciplined. I used to clean up every once in a while, but now I've got to clean and be disciplined all the time. It helps you become a man and I know I'm doing the right thing. I love the coaches too. They push us hard and I know they've brought good athletes through here that have went on to have successful careers and they are hopefully doing the same with us."

The four-star prospect is joining a very talented Hargrave Tiger team.

"We've got a pretty good team and everyone is talking about how good we are, but we've got to show it on the field," he said. "We've got to show our skills and all of us want a ring and to bring the house down. For me, I don't want to just get my test out of the way, I also want to get to Alabama and start as a true freshman next year."

Ford is one of many talented players joining Hargrave this year.

"All the running backs are pretty good and for that matter everyone on the team is good," he said. "When I first came in I thought it would be a piece of cake, but the people here are bigger and everyone has good potential around here. In high school there's not a lot of Division I talent around you, but everyone here is big-time and I've been impressed by everybody."

What about facing that tough talented defensive line with Melvin Alaeze, Callahan Bright and Jerrell Powe?

"If you don't want to get hit, you've got to beat them around the corner," he said. "Coach has taught me a stiff arm and forearm, but those boys are big and it's like going up against Jevon Kearse on the ends."

Ford ran for 2,836 yards and 37 touchdowns as a senior as he was named Class 5A player of the year in Florida.