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Midseason First and Second Team All-American Projections

By Zach Bigalke

Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John
Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John /
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Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) returns an interception for 100 yard touchdown against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the fourth quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Alabama won 49-30. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) returns an interception for 100 yard touchdown against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the fourth quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Alabama won 49-30. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

CB: Minkah Fitzpatrick (Alabama)

Minkah Fitzpatrick has been a dynamo in the defensive backfield for the Crimson Tide this season, throwing opponents off their rhythm not just in coverage but all over the field. The sophomore from New Jersey has 1.5 sacks and two tackles for loss when he pushes forward on defense. Against opposing receivers, he has broken up five passes. Against Arkansas, he nabbed three interceptions… including this one:

That 105-yard return set a new Alabama record as the Tide stomped the Razorbacks in early October. Since that performance Fitzpatrick has not snagged any more turnovers, in large part because subsequent opponents were less inclined to throw his direction. Fitzpatrick gives Saban and his defensive staff the confidence that one half of the field will be effectively covered at all times, a trait that will earn the sophomore All-American status.

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