JC Latham, Dallas Turner bet $20 on 1-on-1 drills at Alabama football practices

JC Latham’s smile grew. He processed the question and made the internal calculations if he wanted to say what had popped into his mind.

Latham had been asked what it was like to go up against fellow first-round pick Dallas Turner in Alabama football practices. Turned out it was a financial opportunity. During 1-on-1 drills, Latham said he and Turner wagered $20 on each rep.

“I love Dallas, that’s my guy. I’m not in college no more so I can say we had bets,” Latham said to reporters after the Tennessee Titans selected him seventh overall in the NFL Draft.

Turner, who went 10 picks after Latham to the Minnesota Vikings, was asked by AL.com during his news conference if it was true and if so, who won more often.

“He never got my money, I’ll tell you that,” Turner said dropping after his chin to his chest and laughing.

Latham, Turner and teammate Terrion Arnold were among the 13 draftees in the NFL’s green room at One Campus Martius in downtown Detroit. The former UA players were asked about upholding the “Alabama standard,” and its role in their development.

Arnold, who went 24th to the Lions, grew the total number of Nick Saban’s first-rounders coached to 52 overall. In a twist, Saban broke down each of his former players as an analyst for ESPN.

Turner’s 32.5 career sacks and Latham’s two stellar years at right tackle made them the first Tide pass rusher and blocker duo to go in the first round since Quinnen Williams and Jonah Williams were selected in 2019. As part of Saban’s final team, Turner and Latham captured a Southeastern Conference title and a trip to the College Football Playoff.

“It was a blessing,” Turner said of watching his teammates hear their names be announced. “I almost cried for JC when he got he called up. Seeing my brothers get drafted, it’s just a beautiful feeling knowing that you went to war with these guys for years. Me and JC lockers were right next to each other so I got to see him every day and see him grow every day.”

Friendly bets aren’t new for Alabama football. In 2022, Will Anderson revealed they had a turnover pool: $20 per player, the winner being the first defender to force a takeaway. Anderson won the pot after grabbing an interception against Louisiana-Monroe.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at NAlvarez@al.com.