After the adversity he’s faced since 2015, Robert Foster had a moment of celebration last week versus Colorado State as Alabama fans witnessed why it was important to sign him in 2013.
He has been a force through three consecutive spring games and fall practices; however, an injury two years ago and miss communication between he and former offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin last season limited the senior’s progress. Hailing from Monaca, Pa., Foster was a five-star prospect and an explosive wide receiver from Central Valley High School.
He’s always had the speed and body control to pair with his size – 6-2 and 194 pounds – but in Saturday’s game, the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff saw his acceleration first-hand on a 52-yard catch and run to pay dirt in the second quarter. Foster would grab a short pass from quarterback Jalen Hurts and proceeded to weave through defenders for his first touchdown since 2015.
Robert Foster (@iamRobertFoster) catches the pass and outruns EVERYONE on this 52-yard score! #CSUvsBama #RollTide pic.twitter.com/rbOEStYsll
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) September 17, 2017
Along with fans roaring in approval, Cam Sims running down to celebrate with Foster was one of the highlight moments from the game. Seeing the two original savages and high-prized recruits be excited over Foster’s accomplishment speaks to the injuries that both had to overcome in order to produce a good season. While he caught just five passes for 55 receiving yards in 2016, Foster already stands as the Tide’s second leading weapon behind Calvin Ridley.
He has three receptions for 75 yards and a touchdown.
With Alabama traveling to Vanderbilt Stadium this week for its Southeastern Conference opener against the Commodores, look for Foster to continue growing in confidence and be more of a factor within Brian Daboll’s scheme.
Head coach Nick Saban had a reason for wanting No. 1 in crimson to remain that way, and he’s starting to see an explanation after Foster’s performance.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
