Alabama has been forced to use more young defensive players early this season than it would like, but Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban was highly complimentary of one of those freshmen defensive players this week.

During his Wednesday press conference, Saban talked at length on what he likes about defensive back Jordan Battle.

“Well, he’s a very bright young guy,” Saban said. “He really picked up on what we do very quickly. I think he played in a really good high school program at St. Thomas, where he was, you know, probably well coached by a lot of good coaches. So I think that probably helped his development when he got here. We have confidence in him. He doesn’t make a lot of mental errors. And, you know, he’s a good football player. He’s a good tackler. He’s instinctive. So I think he’ll just get better and better.”

Battle has filled the stat sheet pretty well early in his career. In five games, he has 12 total tackles, including seven solos and 2.0 for loss. He also has a fumble recovery, interception and 1.0 sack.

Alabama is on a bye this week and will visit Texas A&M in its next game on Oct. 12.