While the Crimson Tide coach may have been shaking his leg on Wednesday to release nervous energy, the Alabama fan base remained glued to the ‘Bama “Fax Girl”…and ESPNU.
The majority of the 2011 Alabama signees simply faxed their letters of intent to UA with little or no fanfare. However, the “big announcement guys” created all the drama (as per usual) for Alabama coaches and fans.
Defensive end Jeoffrey Pagan selected Alabama over Georgia in what was considered a “steal” in certain recruiting circles. Pagan had once been a verbal commitment to both Florida and Clemson before actually signing with Alabama.
In another “nervous moment” for Tide coaches and fans, linebacker/running back Brent Calloway signed with the Crimson Tide after decommiting from Alabama less than a month ago.
The Russellville, AL product had been a solid ‘Bama verbal since June of 2009, however, Calloway decommitted from Alabama in early January and gave his verbal to the Auburn Tigers.
While Pagan and Calloway provided some anxious moments, the “season finale cliffhanger” went to offensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio.
Considered one of the top five overall prospects in the nation and arguably the best offensive tackle, Kouandjio shocked many Alabama fans and general viewers when he selected the Auburn Tigers over the likes of Alabama, Iowa and New Mexico during his live announcement on ESPNU.
However, the “drama” and “shock” over his announcement wouldn’t come close to the events that followed.
Once Kouandjio officially declared for Auburn University…he declined to sign his letter of intent…and immediately reconsidered his decision.
More than 24 hours after refusing to sign with Auburn, it remains unclear where Kouandjio will attend college.
Kouandjio’s brother, Arie, attends the University of Alabama and plays offensive tackle for the Crimson Tide.
The only verbal commitment Alabama “lost” on National Signing Day was wide receiver Daryl Collins. The Gadsden, AL native opted to sign with the Kentucky Wildcats rather than take a grayshirt from Alabama.
In respect to national rankings, Alabama currently ranks No. 1 on Rivals.com, No. 7 on Scout.com and No. 2 on ESPN.
However, with Cyrus Kouandjio and defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (the top overall prospect in the nation) still undecided, the final rankings in respect to Alabama will remain unofficial.
Nick Saban NSD Presser Part 1
Nick Saban NSD Presser Part 2
2011 Signing Class
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