Alabama Football: 3 takeaways from close win over Arkansas

3. Alabama football has turned into a WR factory

Early on in the Nick Saban era, Alabama football had a very clear identity. Physicality inside the trenches with tough running backs and a great defense. Those traits have not really gone away, but what has emerged is Alabama’s dominance in recruiting the WR position.

Of course, they had guys like Julio Jones and Amari Cooper during those days. But, in recent years the Alabama WR room has featured at least 2-3 guys with incredible speed and playmaking ability.

Since 2016, we have seen Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, Jaylen Waddle, and DeVonta Smith all break out from Alabama and into the NFL.

Today, it was John Metchie III and Jameson Williams who could not be stopped. Both players combined for 18 catches, 363 yards, and four touchdowns. Each receiver had at least 17 yards per reception, displaying their ability to make huge plays after the catch.

Even in the SEC, it looks as if these guys are playing against lower competition. Each player’s athletic ability puts them on a different level from most players in the sport.

While a lot of the national talk is about Ohio State’s filthy receiving corps, more shine will likely be bestowed on these two players after a fantastic showing today.