All of the talk this offseason was about how DeVonta Smith was going to be the next elite wide receiver for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He was listed on all the initial Heisman watch lists, and he was projected to be a first round draft pick in the NFL. Rightfully so, Smith is a highly talented receiver that figures to get his fair share of the load this season. But, lost in the shuffle might have been the versatile Jaylen Waddle.
Waddle is a pure play-maker that can line up all over the field and make plays. He’s also been a factor in the return game throughout his career. But, in the shadow of Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III, he didn’t quite get the opportunities that he’ll get in 2020 with both of those guys gone. It’s on Smith and Waddle to continue this vaunted legacy that Tide receivers have built since Nick Saban has come to town – just one stud receiver after another, from Julio Jones a decade ago to last year’s deadly corps with Jeudy, Ruggs, Smith, and Waddle.
After the Tide rolled over the Missouri Tigers 38-19 on Saturday, it’s safe to say that this duo is off to a promising start. Smith tallied eight catches for 89 yards. But, it was Waddle who electrified Mizzou to the tune of eight catches for 134 yards and two touchdowns. The Tigers had no answer for him, especially when he was going up and coming down with viciously contested catches like this one.
This catch was TOUGH. pic.twitter.com/FLCh08Xjjh
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) September 27, 2020
Saban was asked about this catch (and the play of Mac Jones) in a press conference this week, and noted how plays such as this one set a great example of how to compete. Also, saying that the toughness this shows has a tremendous impact on Waddle’s teammates. Not only is he a dynamic play-maker, but he’s showing traits of leadership by example.
Alabama is no longer using Waddle strictly as a slot receiver – he’s lining up all over the place, creating mismatches, and making plays. He’s a slippery guy that is hard to tackle, he’s a tough competitor, and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. This is a dude that could not only assert himself in the NFL Draft conversation, but the Heisman conversation as well. He’s that impressive.
In his first chance to answer the bell, Waddle rose to the occasion. It certainly looks like he’s capable of handling this expanded role quite well.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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