re: Brandon Kennedy transferring

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Earlier this week it was reported that Alabama offensive lineman Brandon Kennedy would be transferring from Alabama. However, according to Al.com’s Matt Zeintz, Kennedy might not be able to transfer to two of his top choices, which happen to be in the SEC.

Kennedy is interested in transferring to either Auburn or Tennessee. But Alabama is blocking Kennedy from transferring to SEC schools. Alabama is also reportedly blocking him from transferring to any future Alabama non-conference opponents.  This is standard practice, even in Kennedy’s case who is a graduate transfer.

This isn’t the first time in recent memory an Alabama player has wanted to transfer to an SEC school. Two seasons ago, Maurice Smithwanted to transfer from Alabama to Georgia, so he could play for Kirby Smart who was a former Alabama coach. It’s worth mentioning that Tennessee is now coached by former Alabama defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt.

In the last two seasons, two other SEC players have transferred between SEC schools, running back David Williams went from South Carolina to Arkansas and defensive back Nick Harveywent from Texas A&M to South Carolina.

Kennedy was the backup center for Alabama and is in the process of appealing this ruling. Smith was eventually allowed to transfer to Georgia, were he went on to be a key player for the Bulldogs. But Smith only had one season of eligibility, while Kennedy would have multiple seasons. And Smith did not face Alabama, while Auburn and Tennessee play every year.

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