Alabama reaches into Texas for corner Maurice Smith

Alabama fans received a good dose of news late Thursday night after the Crimson Tide dipped into Sugar Lane (Texas) to pick up a commitment from defensive back Maurice Smith.

"Maurice Smith II (Fort Bend Sugarland Dulles c/o 2013) has researched, evaluated, and visited and has reached his decision to commit to University of Alabama and play for Nick Saban's defense," Smith's family said in a statement. "Maurice was offered to play cornerback in March 2012 by the Crimson Tide amongst offers from many of the top and most celebrated SEC, Pac 12, & Big Ten programs."

The 5-foot-11, 180-pounder held offers from Notre Dame, Texas, Texas A&M and plenty of others. Although Smith made the tough decision to pass on in-state schools, a recent camp visit at Alabama contributed to the corner feeling Tuscaloosa was the right place for him.

"I knew this would be one of the biggest decisions in my life, and at 16 it seemed almost too big, and a lot of pressure," he said. "But someone told me that I would know when it was right. It just felt right, with no pressure, or expectation, it is just right for me. Roll Tide."
Smith becomes the 15th commitment for the Crimson Tide's class of 2013.