Alabama safety Bray Hubbard received the Lott IMPACT Trophy”s Week 14 Player of the Week accolade following an impressive showing in the Iron Bowl against Auburn. His standout performance included a pivotal interception late in the third quarter, thwarting an Auburn drive that could have led to a game-tying score. Additionally, Hubbard forced a critical fumble with just under 40 seconds remaining in regulation, effectively halting the Tigers” momentum and allowing the Crimson Tide to control the clock as they secured the victory.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Hubbard was also honored as the SEC Player of the Week, marking the second time this season he has achieved this prestigious honor, previously winning it after the game against Wisconsin. Head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Hubbard”s toughness and resilience, noting, “He was working through just some sickness and stuff like that. He”s just tough. He”s resilient, and he”s, to me, one of the many guys that epitomizes what I”m proud of our team about.” DeBoer emphasized Hubbard”s commitment and work ethic, saying it means a lot to him and his teammates.
Reflecting on the challenging environment of the game, Hubbard stated, “We played hard. We fought. Tough game. Tough environment. We knew it was gonna be a dogfight coming in here… It”s really fun. When you look at it, it”s everybody in the crowd versus the, however, 80, 90 people on the sideline. It”s awesome to be able to come in here and get a win in somebody else”s environment.”
The Lott IMPACT Trophy is awarded annually to the college football player who exemplifies outstanding defensive abilities, with IMPACT representing Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity. Although Alabama linebacker Deontae Lawson and defensive lineman LT Overton were included in the preseason watch list for this award, neither player advanced beyond that stage, underscoring Hubbard”s significant achievement.
In historical context, December 4 marks notable events in Alabama”s football history. In 1948, the Crimson Tide faced off against Auburn for the first time in a revived rivalry, winning decisively 55-0. In 1986, linebacker Cornelius Bennett received the Lombardi Trophy, and in 2012, Barrett Jones became the first Alabama player to win the William V. Campbell Trophy, recognized as the academic Heisman Trophy during the 55th National Football Foundation Awards Dinner in New York.
To keep up with Alabama athletics, listeners can tune into BamaCentral assistant editor Katie Windham”s latest episode of the Crimson Flame Podcast, which focuses on National Signing Day for past Alabama women”s teams.
