Back to the SEC Newsfeed

Alabama star Minkah Fitzpatrick takes cerebral approach to defense

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Minkah Fitzpatrick isn’t going to divulge his entire pre-snap checklist.

That would be impractical.

“There’s a whole bunch of stuff,” he said when asked what he looks for before each play.

But Alabama’s sophomore defensive back is willing to provide a few examples.

One such indicator, he explained, is formations, since some offenses will run the same plays from certain formations.

Another indicator is where the receivers line up. It’s a matter of leverage, he pointed out.

“Say a receiver is close to the hash. He’s probably trying to run across the field trying to get away from you,” he said.