The Alabama Crimson Tide have a history of adding great wide receivers to their team and this season isn’t any different. Some people even call Alabama Wide Receiver University (WRU). And it makes sense as to why that is. This season, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe is considered to be a Heisman Hopeful. He’s led the team to a 3-0 record. Through 3 games, he’s thrown for 590 yards and 8 touchdowns. With him doing so well in the passing game, some of that credit goes to a certain freshman wide receiver that’s gotten some attention.
Ryan Williams #2 WR Alabama.
Alabama Freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams has been showing flashes of being one of the best receivers in the SEC this season. He’s been on a consecutive streak of play making throughout the first 3 games. He put himself on the map with a stellar performance against in week 1 against Wisconsin, having 4 catches for 78 yards and a touchdown. Alabama got the victory with ease, winning 42-10. Many people wondered, who is this? Who’s this freshman everyone is talking about? Well, now they know.
Through 3 games, Ryan has 10 catches for 285 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. He’s been a favorite target for Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe.
Ryan is a 6-foot tall 170-pound receiver. He may lack a bit in size, but he doesn’t have many complications in press coverage. He gets off the ball and uses his footwork to maneuver defensive backs and avoid being jammed. His 40 time is listed at 4.3 and he utilizes his speed to create separation, but it doesn’t seem like he only relies on his speed. As a receiver, being well rounded and technically sound in footwork, route running and catching is important. A lot if it comes down to if you can get open. Ryan displays those traits well.
The Crimson Tide use him in a multitude of ways on and offense and special teams. He lines up in the slot and out wide. Often times smaller, quicker receivers line up in the slot while the bigger wideouts line up outside the numbers but that can vary. Ryan seems like he can play inside and outside the numbers. He’ll also get jet sweeps in the run game. A potential issue that is seen is how he would fair against bigger corners who just as quick if not quicker than him. Williams has gotten reps as a punt returner also.
In terms of route running, he runs a good amount of in breaking routes and Alabama likes to get him the ball in space, but he’ll run goal line fades as well and have success on those. He does a good job of creating separation on the deep ball and tracking it over the shoulder. When plays break down, he finds way to help his quarterback by getting open downfield.
Numerous fans say Ryan Williams is a top 10 receiver in college football and many agree. With a conference loaded with talent, it prompts the question, is Ryan Williams the best wide receiver in the SEC.
Leave a Reply