Alabama’s solution to the Ryan Williams problem just came at the perfect time ahead of CFP quarterfinal against Indiana
The Alabama Crimson Tide may have found their solution to Ryan Williams’ drops by way of a true freshman.
There was hope that, coming into the game against the Oklahoma Sooners, the Alabama Crimson Tide would use the week off as a reset. A mental and physical break for an offense that desperately needed one.
Well, for Ty Simpson, that break proved valuable. Despite the early hole that Alabama dug itself, Simpson helped rally a comeback that propelled the Crimson Tide to Pasadena. Only, he did it without help from Ryan Williams, who had yet another drop in a big spot. Luckily, however, a true freshman broke out when Alabama needed him most.
Lotzeir Brooks’ breakout comes at the perfect time amid Ryan Williams’ struggles
“When it comes to the growth that he’s had this season, [he’s] just understanding this is college football,” DeBoer said in his Rose Bowl press conference via the Alabama Crimson Tide YouTube channel. “That step takes preparation. You don’t just roll out on the football field on a Saturday, like he probably did when he was so much better than everyone he faced in high school, and just go get it done.”
“There’s timing, because the windows are smaller. There’s focus. You can see the plays he’s made. I think about the Missouri catch on fourth down. I think about different ones he’s had throughout the year. He’s been more consistent than not. That’s impressive for a freshman.”
While Brooks has been consistent, his reps have been few and far between. That’s not a shot at him, but it speaks to the trio of Isaiah Horton, Williams, and Germie Bernard. The problem is, Williams hasn’t been the same player this season, leading the FBS in drops.
So Brooks was called up, and he delivered against the Sooners, leading Alabama in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, including the one that broke the game open. His speed is undeniable, and while he’s been lurking all season, he picked a great time to have his best game of the season.
Perhaps Williams shows up in the biggest game of the year and looks like his old self. Alabama could certainly use him against the No. 1 team in the nation. If he doesn’t, however, the Crimson Tide can rest assured that they have a difference maker in Brooks.
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