The Richard Mullaney 2.0 train has started.
After posting a 1,000-yard season at Bowling Green in 2015, wide receiver Gehrig Dieter decided to take his talents to Alabama. Dieter, a native of South Bend, Ind., had a smooth transition and quickly caught the attention of head coach Nick Saban throughout summer workouts and fall camp.
His first career touchdown as a member of the Crimson Tide occurred in the fourth quarter against Southern California at AT&T Stadium. It became the final mark in a 52-6 blowout win for Alabama.
TD!! Barnett to DIeter #BamavsUsc pic.twitter.com/ouyyRnTqwU
— BamaVideo (@BamaVideo_) September 4, 2016
The 6-foot-3, 207-pound target created separation on a post route to the right corner, snatching a 45-yard pass from Blake Barnett for the score. Dieter, who switched his number from 14 to 11, was immediately congratulated by ArDarius Stewart, B.J. Emmons and Barnett—who accounted for his first touchdown pass as a Tide quarterback. His hands are a known commodity, but it was his effort in aiding Stewart on a 71-yard touchdown that drew more applause from the crowd.
USC came with an all out blitz, forcing true freshman Jalen Hurts to go to his hot read.
Upon Stewart making the catch, Dieter raced down the field with him to make sure he reached the end zone. He, like Mullaney, possesses the intangible of giving his all on every play. The graduate transfer has an opportunity to have a special year, while working the slot for Alabama.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
