Shemar James’ commitment is a sign the tide is turning

The Florida Gators have not beaten the Alabama Crimson Tide since 2008. It has been a long and grueling time for the Gators, but they recently got a moral victory. One of the best linebackers in the nation, Shemar James, announced his commitment to the Gators over the weekend.

Why is this a moral victory? James plays his high school football in Mobile, Alabama and the Crimson Tide were the favorites to land the four-star recruit (via 247 Sports) before he announced his decision.

The 2022 recruit joins an already impressive recruiting class, highlighted by the two speedster wide receivers Isaiah Bond and C.J. Smith, and four-star quarterback Nick Evers.

Evers has been an essential factor in the Gators’ recruiting efforts. The two speedy receivers show that Florida is getting back to their old ways of adding elite speed at the receiver position.

Getting back to their old ways would mean beating Alabama like they did here when they landed James.

Shemar James will become a household name in Gainesville.

James has the potential to be a quality starter for the Gators for a very long time. He has obvious NFL potential because of his athleticism and ability at the position.

Florida has had some solid linebackers to come through their program, and James cements that the Gators will keep producing NFL linebackers.

James’ athleticism was displayed in high school as he played wide receiver, linebacker, and even wildcat quarterback.

He has an incredible motor, which will likely allow him to play on special teams early in his career. James also shows a remarkable ability to blitz and rush the passer, so he will be a great chess piece for Florida.

The Gators already got a victory over Alabama with James’ commitment, but they will finally get back in the win column this year because this is a sign the tide is turning in the Gators’ favor.