Kid grows up an AU fan. Till we beat em on the field, it's suckage.
http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2013/04/4-star_opelika_cornerback_step.html#incart_river_default4-star Opelika cornerback Stephen Roberts commits to Alabama
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By Matt Scalici | mscalici@al.com
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on April 24, 2013 at 1:12 PM, updated April 24, 2013
Opelika cornerback Stephen Roberts is rated the No. 10 player in the state of Alabama by the 247Composite rankings. (Photo courtesy of 247Sports)
Alabama picked up its fifth commitment of the 2014 recruiting class on Wednesday when Opelika cornerback Stephen Roberts pledged his commitment to the Crimson Tide. Roberts, a 6-foot, 177-pound defensive back rated a four-star prospect by 247Sports and ESPN, informed Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart of his decision after Smart visited Opelika to observe Roberts during spring practice.
"It was an easy decision for me," Roberts said. "Everything about Alabama fits me perfectly from their style of play to the relationships I have built with the coaching staff. It's just the perfect fit for me as a player and as a student."
Roberts, who visited Alabama for their A-Day spring game last weekend, said he grew up an Auburn fan but that his childhood preferences didn't factor into his decision.
"Being a fan and being a player are two totally different things," Roberts said. "I have always rooted for Auburn as a fan but when it comes time to making the decision about what's best for me as a player going forward, you can't think about those things. Alabama has put a lot of defensive backs into the NFL in the last few years and I believe they will give me the best chance to develop into the best player I can be."
Rated as the nation's No. 23 cornerback by the 247Composite rankings, Roberts said that while most of his experience is at the cornerback spot, Alabama likes his versatility and his potential to play multiple positions.
"Coach Saban and Coach Smart both told me they feel like I could play not just corner but also safety and nickel for them and they like that I have that versatility."
Roberts, who holds scholarship offers from Auburn, Florida State and a number of other major programs, said that he does not anticipate taking any further visits.
"My high school coach is a big believer in being true to your word. He says that once you commit, you need to stay committed. I'm ready to make my decision and I'm not really interested in looking at other schools."
As a junior, Roberts helped lead Opelika to the 6A state championship game with 64 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 11 pass breakups and 4 interceptions, three of which were returned for touchdowns.
Check out highlights from Roberts' junior season in the clip below:
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