Alabama DB Wins Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week
After a rough performance in Alabama's 52-49 loss to Tennessee, Alabama safety DeMarcco Hellams turned things around against Mississippi State on Saturday.
The Senior Bowl recognized Hellams as the Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Bulldogs. He recorded 12 tackles, two pass breakups, a sack and a tackle for loss in Alabama's 30-6 win.
Hellams displayed his ability to be physical and make plays last year, ranking third on the team with 87 tackles, also recording three interceptions.
Earlier in the year, Hellams was one of 11 Alabama seniors added to the Senior Bowl watchlist. Fellow defensive backs Jordan Battle and Khyree Jackson joined Hellams on the list.
Tennessee schemed well against the Alabama defense, creating mismatches, especially with wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. The Vols' spread offense pushed Hellams to the outside to play like a corner in coverage. Hyatt got past Hellams and other Alabama defensive backs to score five touchdowns.
Despite throwing the ball 60 times, Mississippi State's offensive game plan was far better suited for Hellams play style. The Bulldogs opened the game running more often than usual, allowing Hellams to attack the line of scrimmage. They were unable to get behind Alabama's defense and make explosive plays, as the Bulldogs longest completion was 20 yards.
Hellams recorded his first sack since his sophomore season in 2020, after being unable to record one in 2021. He even recorded a sack in his freshman season, despite only making four tackles all year.
The senior defensive back currently sits second on the team in tackles, only behind linebacker Henry To'oTo'o. Hellams is also one of the only three Alabama players to record an interception this season.