Alabama values consistency over ‘flashes’ from James Smith

Alabama defensive tackle James Smith. Photo | Alabama AthleticsThere’s no question why Alabama fans are excited about James Smith. There aren’t many 6-foot-3, 297-pound defensive tackles who have the athleticism to chase down opposing quarterbacks on the perimeter. There are even fewer capable of doing a front flip following the sack.

Smith did both of those during last season’s ReliaQuest Bowl. It’s moments like those that give Alabama hope that the junior will one day play up to his potential.

Smith had another moment over the weekend, as he sped into the backfield to bring down Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar for a 2-yard loss. The sack was one of a team-high seven tackles the defensive…