Since taking the helm at Georgia in 2016, Kirby Smart has consistently faced the challenge of coaching against standout freshman wide receivers. In the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship Game, he dealt with Alabama’s trio of Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, and Henry Ruggs III. Ruggs snagged a touchdown against Georgia’s defense, while Smith made the game-winning catch, one of the most memorable moments in Crimson Tide history. The following year, Jaylen Waddle tormented Smart’s secondary in the SEC Championship Game, recording four catches for 113 yards and a touchdown as a freshman.
Now, Ryan Williams, a former five-star recruit, is the latest freshman wideout posing a threat to Georgia. Williams, only 17, has already made a significant impact, leading Alabama with 10 catches, 285 yards, and four touchdowns in just three games. Despite arriving with plenty of hype from Saraland High School in Alabama, he’s exceeded expectations.
Smart, who had recruited Williams, knows what he’s up against. “He’s extremely talented,” Smart said in Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference. “We had him visit several times. He’s a great kid and fun to be around.”
Both Alabama and Georgia are on a bye week, preparing for their SEC clash next week at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The game carries huge stakes for both the SEC title race and the College Football Playoff picture. While Williams aims to shine on the big stage, Smart’s focus is on containing yet another elite freshman talent.
