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Alabama’s standout receiver Ryan Williams won’t suit up against ULM this Saturday as he works through concussion protocol, according to sources who spoke with CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.
The sophomore phenom took a nasty hit in the fourth quarter of Bama’s disappointing 31-17 loss to Florida State in the opener. After dropping a pass from QB Ty Simpson, Williams got sandwiched between two Seminole defenders and appeared to slam his head against the turf. Though he walked off under his own power, the damage was done.
Williams entered the season with massive expectations but struggled mightily against FSU.
The highly-touted wideout was targeted 10 times but managed just five catches for a measly 30 yards — while dropping three passes according to Pro Football Focus. It was a rough night that mirrored Alabama’s overall offensive woes in the defeat.
With Williams sidelined, the Tide will lean more heavily on Germie Bernard, who emerged as the lone bright spot in the passing game with eight receptions for 146 yards against the Seminoles. Redshirt sophomore Cole Adams — listed as the backup H-receiver on the depth chart — should also see increased opportunities. Adams has already contributed as both a pass-catcher and punt returner, including a solid 57-yard performance in last year’s victory over South Carolina.
This is a critical bounce-back opportunity for second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer.
Despite nearly making the College Football Playoff last season, the Crimson Tide have stumbled to a concerning 5-5 record over their last 10 games. Even more troubling — four of those losses came as two-touchdown favorites. The good news? Alabama enters as massive 35.5-point favorites against ULM, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
