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PFF Tabs One Alabama Safety as a 'Rising Star'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nazario Pangallo | Last updated Nov 14, 2024 2:28 PM ET

When Crimson Tide safety Keon Sabb, who picked off two passes and wrapped up 39 tackles, went down with an injury during the Tennessee game, many expected Alabama's thin secondary to struggle. Instead, Sabb's replacement, Bray Hubbard, has stepped right in and helped Alabama's secondary become a strength of a now humming defense that just shut down LSU.

Pro Football Focus has noticed Hubbard's impact, with Max Chadwick praising the sophomore defender.

"He is a rising star in this Alabama secondary," Chadwick said.

Since Sabb was sidelined in week eight, PFF has Hubbard as the third-highest-graded safety in the nation. A former four-star recruit from Ocean Springs, Miss., not much was expected from Hubbard this season, with Malachi Moore and Sabb roaming the back end.

It didn't take long for Hubbard to make his presence felt as he intercepted Missouri's Drew Pyne in his first career start as the Tide ran by the Tigers 34-0. Then, Hubbard took part in another Tiger demolition as he produced another interception, a pass breakup, and four tackles in the Crimson Tide's 42-13 beat down of LSU.

Although Sabb's injury was heartbreaking for Alabama as it lost one of its most experienced defensive players, it has been a perfect opportunity for Hubbard to show what he's got and gain valuable reps in high-leverage situations.

Even if and when Sabb returns from his injury, which Kalen DeBoer has not provided an update on since October 21, defensive coordinator Kane Wommack will surely find ways to get the game-wrecking Hubbard on the field.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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