TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Mark Barron is starting to feel like a
defensive back, not just an athlete playing the position.

No. 2 Alabama's free safety is leading the Southeastern
Conference and ranks tied for third nationally with six
interceptions. The sophomore has taken over the spot in Alabama's
secondary held by All-American Rashad Johnson.

Barron played mostly on special teams as a freshman and didn't
move to the defense until his senior year of high school.

Barron says he feels like he has made a lot of improvement. That
was evident when he made two diving interceptions last weekend at
Mississippi State.

The Crimson Tide hosts Chattanooga on Saturday.