James Smith and Qua Russaw are rare high school teammates as 5-stars on the defensive line. They’ll continue their play together in the SEC.

At a signing day ceremony that was broadcast on ESPN2’s “College Football Live” as part of its signing day special, Smith and Russaw committed to Alabama. The Crimson Tide’s class now includes 6 prospects who are listed as 5-stars. Alabama’s class was already ranked No. 1 before this announcement.

“With the tradition over the years, we just know we’re going to go there, going to get pushed hard and hopefully be a legend,” Russaw said.

Added Smith, “Had a great relationship with the coaches and it felt like home to me. Just go be great and win.”

The 6-foot-3, 310-pound Smith, a defensive lineman, is listed as the No. 1 recruit in the state of Alabama, according to the 247 composite rankings. Russaw (6-2, 230) is No. 2. He plays on the edge.

Alabama has done well with in-state recruiting in this class, and before Smith and Russaw, the Tide had commitments on the defensive line from Hewitt-Trussville’s Hunter Osborne and Eufaula’s Yhonzae Pierre.