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Over the last week, Dallas County has gotten to see the inner workings of recruiting in college football.

That all centers around Southside High School football standout Derick Smith. Smith, rated by the 247Sports Composite as the No. 51 player in the Class of 2025, could either play wide receiver or defensive back. He’s gotten a look both ways. 

Alabama, who received a commitment from Smith initially, wanted him as a defensive back. Auburn got into the mix and offered him a scholarship to play wide receiver. Because the Tigers want him for offense, Smith changed his commitment to the Tigers after Big Cat Weekend last week. 

Alabama is countering its offer and offered Smith’s twin brother, Erick, who is an unranked player in the forthcoming Class of 2025. Auburn matched that and also offered Erick a scholarship.

First of all, it’s great to see our state university football programs showing interest in two of our own. This is a great opportunity for Derick and Erick to get a good education at either school with a potential to make some Name, Image and Likeness compensation on top of that.

Second, it just shows how good the talent is in our area. We’ve had a number of players come out of Dallas County and play college sports. We believe there are more players who could earn scholarships in sports.

Lastly, it also shows you just how important it is to have success in the classroom in addition to the field of play. If grades were an issue with either athlete, they might not be getting offers from either school. So, they have to be good enough students to earn a scholarship offer.

As Derick and Erick continue to get attention from Alabama and Auburn, we encourage them to make the best decision possible. While we might want to encourage them to go to your school, you have to let them decide what’s right for them. Best wishes in the upcoming season and the recruiting process!