After 17 successful years, the Alabama football program will enter the next fall without head coach Nick Saban leading the charge. Saban’s tenure boasted an impressive 206-29 record, six titles, and eight appearances in the College Football Playoff. Among the talents nurtured in Tuscaloosa was Kool-Aid McKinstry, soon-to-be first-round NFL draft pick and star defensive back. McKinstry spent three years under Saban’s guidance, contributing to two CFP runs.
However, McKinstry’s journey with Alabama almost took a different turn. The former five-star prospect nearly committed to Auburn, Alabama’s biggest rival. In a recent interview with AL.com, McKinstry revealed that he initially intended to commit to Auburn publicly but changed his mind after three days of contemplation. Instead, he informed his mother that he would be heading to Alabama, not Auburn.
Former Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry said he originally told Auburn he was going to commit to them publicly.
“I woke up three days later and was like, HELL NAH! I’m going to 'Bama.” #RollTide pic.twitter.com/WkIUQCnuK4
— Alabama Crimson Tide | AL.com (@aldotcomTide) April 16, 2024
McKinstry’s decision dealt a blow to Auburn’s recruiting aspirations, as he was regarded as the top corner in the class of 2021. The Tigers settled for four-star recruits and struggled to maintain a winning record during McKinstry’s college tenure.
During his time with the Crimson Tide, McKinstry showcased his talent, recording impressive stats and contributing to the team’s success. Despite a slight dip in production during his final season, McKinstry’s impact was undeniable.
In matchups against Auburn, Alabama emerged victorious each time, with McKinstry making notable plays, including a sack on then-Auburn quarterback TJ Finley in 2021.
McKinstry’s journey from recruitment to collegiate success highlights the fierce rivalry between Alabama and Auburn and underscores the impact of top-tier talent on the field.
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