Alabama's Mosley Earns SEC Honor

C.J. Mosley probably doesn't have the most memorable defensive play of the game remembered by those who saw Alabama defeat Missouri, 42-14, in Columbia Saturday. That would probably go to one of the defensive backs, Vinnie Sunseri or HaHa Clinton-Dix, who got interceptions off tips. Or maybe defensive lineman LaMichael Fanning for his slam dunk of a Tigers running back.

When Alabama coaches submitted their nominees for Southeastern Conference player of the week awards, though, it was linebacker C.J. Mosley who got the nod. And he was rewarded by recognition as the SEC Defensive Player of the Week.

Mosley, a 6-2, 232-pound junior weakside linebacker from Theodore, got the start against Missouri, which was known for its no-huddle, fast-paced offense. He responded with a team-high 12 tackles, a sack, a fumble recovery, and a quarterback pressure as the Crimson Tide defense held Mizzou to just 129 total yards (31 in the first half) and only three rushing yards for the game.

Mosley’s fumble recovery at the end of the first half ended a drive that had reached the UA 9-yard line.

Alabama’s defense allowed only a field goal (MU other points on kickoff return) and held Mizzou to six 3-downs-and-out possessions.

Alabama leads the nation in all major defensive categories - scoring, total, pass, rush, pass efficiency - as well as tied for first in turnover margin.

Also earning mention from the conference office was Bama center Barrett Jones, who graded 92 per cent (best for Tide offensive linemen) and did not have a penalty and did not allow a sack or a quarterback pressure.