As Alabama prepares for their New Year's Day clash against Clemson, Nick Saban inked 15 players as part of the Crimson Tide's signing haul during the early signing period.

OnThursday's edition of The Blitz, BamaOnline.com recruiting reporter Hank South assessed Alabama's early signing day progress.

According to 247Sports, Alabama has the sixth best recruiting class nationally. Regardless of the rankings, Hank South expressed a positive outlook at the Crimson Tide's success during the early signing period.

"I think overall, it was a pretty good day for Alabama." South said. "I know some Alabama fans will probably disagree. It kind of went back and forth with some of the stuff that was getting put out there as far as where they stood in the rankings and what was happening with their class."

South elaborated on the direction that Saban intends to take toward the eventual completion of the 2018 signing class in February.

"In going forward, it's pretty clear where they are going to hit and I think that's defensive back and defensive line and obviously they are going to continue to look for a quarterback as well." South said.

The BamaOnline.com recruiting reporter later addressed Nadab Joseph's flip from committing to Alabama to signing with Georgia, the chances of Alabama landing defensive tackle Bobby Brown out of Arlington, Texas, and the quality of recruits within the borders of Alabama for 2018.

The Blitz kicks off live and local coverage of Alabama sports every weekday from 6-7 AM on Tide 102.9/100.9 and the Tide 102.9 app.

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