The high schools around the city of Memphis are full of talented college-ready football prospects generally on the same levels of some Florida, Georgia, or Texas communities. Making inroads into these high schools is critical to improving the talent base at any college program. At one point in time Cincinnati was also in on one of Memphis’ best recruits of the 2012 class Brian Kimbrow. He ended up verballing to Vanderbilt but the fact that Cincinnati was in on him from the beginning was a good sign of future recruiting for the Bearcats.
Overview
For a shutdown cornerback coming out of high school, Dale gives you everything you could ask of him. In man coverage he sticks to his receiver like glue and reminds me a lot of former Bearcat great Mike Mickens in that sense. He high points the balls that he can’t intercept and does whatever he can to make sure the receiver doesn’t catch the ball. In zone he does a good job holding his ground and seems to understand the routes the wide outs are running and keeps track of the quarterback’s eyes as well. I’d also characterize Dale as a bawl-hawking corner and goes for the interception whenever possible. Overall, Alex Dale is great all around corner back.
Outlook
For the first time since 2008, I think the cornerback position will be pretty talented in 2012. Dominque Battle, just granted his redshirt year, will be a veteran senior along with Cam Cheatham and Reuben Johnson who would have had a lot of experience at that point. Plus players like Demitri Beal, Trenier Orr, and Adrian Witty would have spent an extra year in the system. I think Dale is the best cornerback of the 2012 class which could push the coaching staff to give him some playing time but I also wouldn’t be surprised if he took a redshirt to add some bulk to his frame. It might be a little early to don him the second coming of Mike Mickens but don’t fool yourself, Alex is a very talented defensive back and should give Coach Coombs little to yell at when he steps on campus in 2012.
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