Alabama commitment enjoys ATL experience
Skyler DeLong, three-star punter from Nation Ford High School in Fort Mill, South Carolina, was one of many prospects who attended the Alabama/FSU game on Saturday night in Atlanta. The Crimson Tide commitment enjoyed the 24-7 win against the Seminoles.
"It was a lot of fun," DeLong said. "I was with my dad and one of my friends. The stadium was incredible. I liked it a lot. We were in a section with other commitments. I am friends with all of them.
"I thought they (Alabama) looked pretty good. It was a tough game. Florida State is not an easy team. I think that's why they had a little hard time on offense. Jalen Hurts and Calvin Ridley impressed me. The whole team really looks good."
DeLong plans to attend a few games in Tuscaloosa this fall including the Tennessee (official) and LSU game. He will graduate in December and enroll at Alabama in January.
"Just playing for a legendary coach like Nick Saban," he said when asked why he chose Alabama. "It's a great football team and program. My dad and I saw it first. Then my mom and sister went down there. They loved it.
The Tide's verbal pledge remains in communication with his future coaches.
"I talk to Alabama every day," he said. "A lot of coaches from Alabama text me. I think it's understood by all the other schools where I am going. I don't talk to any other coaches."
The former Tennessee commitment looks up to Alabama punter, JK Scott. He faces the task of filling the void left by Scott after this season.
"He is by far the best punter in college football," DeLong said. "He is a really cool guy, nice guy. I am looking forward to stepping in and trying to do as good or better than him when I get to Alabama."
DeLong averaged 46 and 48 yards per punt in his first two games of the 2017 season.