Two players made their presence felt for the University of Alabama football program in last week’s matchup against Louisville. While sophomore quarterback Tua Tagovailoa received praise from fans and the coaching staff, the Southeastern Conference recognized defensive end Quinnen Williams and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle as its players of the week for their efforts.
Williams, a sophomore, led the team in tackles (six) and totaled 3.5 tackles for loss with one pass breakup and one quarterback hurry. The 6-foot-4, 289-pounder rendered Louisville’s rushing attack to just 16 yards and consistently affected quarterback Jawon Pass all game long.
Waddle, a freshman, was a human highlight reel.
The elite prospect from Texas had 66 yards receiving on three catches – including a 49-yard reception from Tagovailoa that set up a touchdown. He averaged 20 yards per attempt on four punt returns (80 yards total) and if it weren’t for a flag, one of his returns would have counted for a touchdown. Should that had happened, Waddle would have given the Crimson Tide its first season-opening game since Virginia Tech in 2013 where it scored on offense, defense, kick return and punt return.
Both players were also awarded weekly honors from the Tide’s coaching staff. After getting a 51-14 win over the Cardinals, Alabama will face Arkansas State this week for its home opener at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
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 @CoachingMSmith.
