ANDREW BONE: Craig Sanders commits to Alabama

Craig Sanders, Scout.com National 100 defensive end from Ariton High School, informed recruiting coach Kirby Smart Monday about his intentions to commit to the University of Alabama. He told coach Nick Saban Tuesday afternoon.

"I committed today around 3:30 p.m,' said Sanders. "I talked to coach Smart yesterday, and told him I was ready to commit. I then called and told coach Saban today. He seemed realy happy."

"I was ready to commit. I thought Alabama was the right place to commit. I didn't want to waste any more time. I am through with everything."

Sanders admitted the decision to commit to the in-state school was never in doubt. He favored Alabama from the moment they extended an offer.

"It wasn't that tough for me," he said. "Alabama was the first to offer me. When they first offered I knew it was a good school. I was going to commit to them in December. I then held out. I have been thinking Alabama the whole time. I really didn't choose them over anyone. It's always been just Alabama for me."

Sanders was recruited by the Tide to play the 'Jack' linebacker position.

He held offers from several of the nation's top programs including Auburn, Florida, Georgia, LSU and Oklahoma.

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Reach Andrew Bone at abone@scout.com