Khyree Jackson Fills in Admirably in the Cotton Bowl

With starting cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis dealing with a lingering hip injury, Khyree Jackson filled in admirably in the Cotton Bowl.

“He’s got really good confidence in himself, regardless of what situation he was in all year,” said Christian Harris . “He came in and has continued to work. We continue to help him out. He’s doing a good job.”

Jackson, a four-star prospect was tabbed as the the No. 1 overall recruit according to the ESPN JC50. He totaled 25 tackles and three interceptions in 2019 at Fort Scott (Kansas) Community College, but his 2020 season at East Mississippi Community College was canceled due to health concerns caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Maryland native appeared in 10 games this season, contributing primarily on special teams. He was selected as one of the special teams players of the week by the Alabama coaching staff for his play against Auburn and Georgia. Jackson patiently waited for the opportunity to show the country what he can do on the defensive side of the ball and took full advantage.

Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder was held to 144 passing yards and season-lows in both completion percentage (53.1) and yards per attempt (4.5). It was also the first time Ridder did not have a passing or rushing touchdown since 2019. Jackson was excellent in coverage and finished the game with three tackles and one pass breakup.

At 6-foot-3 and 197lbs, he possesses elite level size and length. Wide receiver Jameson Williams has been vocal about what he has seen for Jackson since the two of them arrived on campus in the summer.

“He is a great corner,” Williams said. “He has length and really great feet. I’ve gone against him since the summer. We both came in at the same time.”

“When you guys get to see Khyree, you guys are going to like him,” he said.