re: Class of 2018 Recruiting MEGATHREAD: So Long Old Friend Edition

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Another Ferrari at linebacker?

The last time Alabama had a “Ferrari” at linebacker, it worked out quite nicely for the Crimson Tide. Reuben Foster lost 15 pounds entering last season and called himself a Ferrari after the slimmer look. He ended up winning the Butkus Award for being college football’s best linebacker in 2016.

In the Class of 2018, there’s another Ferrari. Amari “Ferrari” Gainer, a 4-star linebacker from Lawton Chiles High School (Tallahassee, Fla.), picked up an offer from Alabama on Monday night.

“My teammates called me “Amari The Ferrari” back in Pop Warner when I played running back,” Gainer told SEC Country. “I feel like I play kind of like (Foster). I can get downhill, play good in space and get after the quarterback.”

Alabama has kept a close eye on Gainer and finally offered him a scholarship after a dominant performance last week at the Orlando Opening regional camp, where he was named the camp’s top linebacker in attendance.

The Crimson Tide offer was one he was hoping to get sooner rather than later because he’s planning to make a decision on where he’ll attend college before his senior season begins.

“This is special to get a big offer by such a great school,” Gainer said. “Alabama is a great school. It is known for winning and has a coaching staff that is built to train you for the NFL.”

Alabama does have some top competition for Gainer if it wants to add him in the Class of 2018. With him being from Tallahassee, Florida State is the school that is viewed as the overwhelming favorite to land his signature. His father, Herb, played wide receiver for the Seminoles and Amari grew up a fan of FSU.

That doesn’t mean he’s automatically going to Florida State, he insists.

“I’d say that my options are open and I have no leader right now,” Gainer said. “My dad doesn’t care where I go as long as I make the best decision for me and my career.”

As for where Alabama stands now? The Crimson Tide are up there with the Seminoles.

“I’m high on ‘Bama and they’re definitely one of my top schools,” Gainer said, “I love the program. I like how they win and the coaches coach you up right and train you for the next level.”

Gainer visited Tuscaloosa for the Mississippi State game this past season and he’s hoping to make it back to Alabama in the near future.

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