Alabama safety Jordan Battle has 'all love for Miami'

When Alabama safety Jordan Battle takes the field against Miami in Atlanta next weekend it will be extra special. Battle grew up in Fort Lauderdale. He saw a lot of Hurricane football games as a kid.

“My dad grew up a Miami fan, so I used to always grow up watching Miami,” Battle told the media on Thursday. “Of course they have a great tradition over there, a great history, so all love for Miami.”

Despite growing up in a Hurricane-friendly environment, Battle felt no push to stay home. 

“There was no pressure [to go to Miami],” Battle said. “It was all my decision. That’s well in the past, and we’re here now.”

The four-star prospect had over 25 offers and took official visits to Alabama, Miami, Ohio State and Oklahoma according to 247Sports. The Hurricanes recruited Battle “very hard,” but ultimately Alabama head coach Nick Saban’s expertise in the defensive backfield made Battle want to go play for the Crimson Tide. 

This is the second time in the last month Battle has had nice things to say about the Hurricanes. A few weeks ago, Battle was asked if he would have some extra juice in him for the opener.

“It’s the same feeling for every game,” Battle said, via Rivals.com’s Alabama football YouTube page. “But being out of Miami, it’s gonna be a great experience. My hometown team. It’s gonna be a great game, and a great one for the fans as well.”

Top-15 showdown in Atlanta

While Battle may have a soft spot for South Florida, it won’t matter when Sept. 4 rolls around. No. 1 Alabama is currently an 18.5-point favorite.

The biggest challenge for the Tide defense in their opening game will be keeping Hurricanes quarterback D’Eriq King in check. While King tore his ACL at the end of the 2020 season, he’s expected to be ready for 2021’s opener. Diaz recently spoke after a scrimmage, and it appears the Hurricanes have a wealth of talent at the receiver position. 

Still, it may not be enough for No. 14 Miami. While King may be one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the nation, Alabama may simply have too much firepower. Notable offensive contributors project to be quarterback Bryce Young, wide receivers John Metchie III, Agiye Hall and Jameson Williams. Tight end Jahleel Billingsley, offensive lineman Evan Neal and running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Trey Sanders will be names to know.

While simply playing against Miami may be memorable for Jordan Battle, defeating them and showing out would be even sweeter.