TUSCALOOSA
Alabama fans erupted as freshman cornerback Zabien Brown electrified the stadium with a 99-yard interception return against Tennessee, giving the Crimson Tide a commanding 23-7 lead just before halftime. Brown picked off Joey Aguilar’s pass with eight seconds left in the second quarter and sprinted the length of the field, showcasing his speed, vision, and football instincts.
“ZABIEN BROWN TOOK IT TO THE HOUSE! 100 YARDS!! OHH MERCY!!!” one fan posted on X, while another declared, “Zabien Brown, I speak for all of Tide Nation when I say we love you.” Commentator Sean McDonough added, “Zabien Brown all the way! Touchdown, Alabama!”
A 6-foot, 196-pound cornerback from Santa Ana, California, Brown has quickly established himself as a defensive star in his debut season at Alabama. In 2024, he started all 12 games, recording three interceptions, including a game-winner against Georgia. His high school career at Mater Dei High School included 32 tackles, three interceptions, and All-Trinity League honors.
Known for his blazing 11.12-second 100-meter dash and track experience, Brown has been a key factor in Alabama’s top-10 pass defense ranking. Analysts project him as a 2027 NFL Draft prospect, drawing comparisons to Cam Smith for his poise, confidence, and ball-hawking skills.
With this game-changing play, Brown not only secured Alabama a massive advantage over Tennessee but also solidified his status as one of college football’s rising defensive stars.
