Defensive lineman William Ming from Athens (Ala.) High School committed to Alabama during an unofficial visit Tuesday, according to his mother, Susan Ming.

The 6-foot-3, 250-pound Ming chose the Tide over Tennessee, Auburn, LSU, Georgia, Florida State and Notre Dame.

Ming attended UT's junior day March 1. He also visited Auburn, LSU and Notre Dame.

The Vols were hoping to take advantage of a tie to Ming with defensive end Wes Brown, who graduated from Athens High in 2005.

Ming's commitment to Alabama isn't surprising. He grew up an Alabama fan and told the News Sentinel in March that distance would be a factor in his decision.

Ming also said he was impressed by the job of second-year head coach Nick Saban.

"I think he's a great coach and he's doing good things to make them rise," Ming said.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.