Bray Hubbard: “We want to lead the country in takeaways and that’s our goal”

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - As the Crimson Tide gear up for another highly anticipated season, safety Bray Hubbard is stepping into a key role on defense. After making a name for himself last season filling in for the injured Keon Sabb, Hubbard is now entering his third year in Tuscaloosa with confidence, perspective, and a clear vision for what the defense is striving to become.

Get our free mobile app

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Hubbard gave insight into the mindset of the defensive unit heading into the summer. When asked about the identity of the defense under Kane Wommack, Hubbard was quick to emphasize one core principle: takeaways

"I think the identity right now is taking the ball away," said Hubbard. That's what coach Wommack talks about all the time: take the ball away. We want to lead the country in takeaways and that's our goal."

That aggressive mentality is being echoed throughout the defensive room, and Hubbard says the vibe has been really good as spring practice comes to a close.

"I think the vibe of the defense has been really good. We have some young guys that are taking some really big steps and that's what you want to see. We still have two more days to clean up everything and get rolling into the summer."

Hubbard also made a point to recognize some of the younger players who have been turning heads this spring, including early enrollees and transfers alike.

"Ivan Taylor, Dijon Lee, Cam Calhoun- a transfer, so he's kind of learning the system still, but he's doing a really good job," said Hubbard. "Really just all the young guys, I got to brag on them. It's not easy transferring into here from high school or another school and learning a new defense."

Just a year ago, Hubbard and many of his teammates were navigating the challenge of adjusting to a completely new defensive system. This spring, things feel different according to Hubbard.

"Last year at this time we were all learning a brand new defense. We have a lot of returners and we're building on what we learned last year and things we saw during the season, so that's a huge part. We feel like we're just cleaning things up and locking in on the details to get better for next season."

With veteran presences, a newfound hunger, and a wave of young talent stepping up, the Crimson Tide defense seems to be hitting its stride.