Alabama Football: 3 Reasons why The Tide will beat Ohio State

The return of an electric weapon

Normally during the week leading up to the national championship, key concrete matchups are discussed. However, Ohio State may have one more person to game plan for on Monday.

All-SEC WR Jaylen Waddle has been out of action since the half way part of the season. His season was expected to be finished with an ACL injury. It was announced on Tuesday that Waddle was cleared to practice. With six days of preparation, there’s a good chance Waddle will play.

If Smith wasn’t enough to game plan for, add in a weapon like Waddle and Jones has more down field options.

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It has not been confirmed that he will return, but he is an instant impact if he is on the field. Waddle in five games, had 557 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Waddle has also had a punt return touchdown in both 2018 and 2019. Waddle added a kick return touchdown in 2019, as well.

It’s clear that Waddle can hurt any opposing team in many different ways with 20 total touchdowns in his career. Whether he will be able to do that on Monday will be a key to watch. If Waddle is on the field, expect No. 17 having the ball in his hands early and often.