Alabama Football: 3 Second-Year Players Poised for Stardom in 2023
Football in Alabama consistently attracts a strong recruiting class. When the Tide's class is ranked No. 1 or No. 2, it isn't even a surprise any longer; rather, it is expected. And practically every year, new stars emerge as a result of that expectation.
Alabama narrowly missed the College Football Playoff in 2022, so if it wants to return to the grandest stage, it will need second-year players to shine as new stars.
Which second-year athletes have a chance to break through in 2023?
#3. Jaheim Oatis, Defensive Line
Jaheim Oatis had a fantastic first year despite not being the top recruit in Alabama's 2022 class or even the best defensive lineman the Tide signed.
The 71st-ranked prospect in the country was Oatis. He was a top-75 national recruit but Alabama's 11th-best signee due to the great recruiting class that the Tide just had.
With 29 total tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, a sack, and two pass breakups, Oatis had a stellar first campaign.
#2. Elijah Pritchett, Offensive Tackle
Alabama is losing a couple of key offensive linemen from the 2022 team and that paves the way for Elijah Pritchett to take over a starting role.
The former top-40 recruit in the 2022 class showed some promise as a freshman and even came off the bench in the bowl game to help Alabama storm back against Kansas State after an early deficit. He was the No. 5 offensive lineman in the 2022 class, according to the 247Sports composite, and he is going to live up to that lofty ranking.
Alabama will need some help up front next season and I think Pritchett will project as a starter to begin the 2023 season and hold on throughout as long as he’s healthy. He has the tools to be the next great Alabama offensive tackle.
#1. Kobe Prentice, Wide Receiver
For the Crimson Tide in 2023 and the upcoming seasons, Kobe Prentice will be excellent. Hopes were high for Prentice when he entered the program as the No. 78 recruit nationwide and the 12th-best receiver. He was an excellent freshman. He actually finished fifth on the squad with 31 receptions for 337 yards and two touchdowns.
He had glimpses of being a star for Alabama, and I predict that 2023 will be the year he breaks through as one of the best receivers in the country.
Prentice is anticipated to start and should increase every metric. Although he's not the biggest wideout, his speed and cunning make him a constant threat to find the end zone.
