Alabama’s offense has garnered a lot of attention this season, and for good reason.
With former NFL offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian dialing up one big play after another with each one orchestrated by quarterback Mac Jones, the Crimson Tide has appeared unstoppable on that side of the football.
For the majority of the season, Jones has been the one receiving much of the praise from the outside with most ready to pen him in as a Heisman Trophy finalist when the regular season concludes.
But sophomore wide receiver John Metchie was prepared to make a different proclamation when he called fellow route runner DeVonta Smith the best player in the country.
“Teams can try and lock in on DeVonta,” Metchie said during a Zoom conference on Monday. “I don’t think… It’s kind of hard to stop somebody like that. Personally, I think Smitty is the best player in college football right now.”
When looking at the numbers Smith has put up this season accompanied by the ever-growing highlight tape, it’s hard to disagree with Metchie’s claim.
Smith currently ranks third in receptions and receiving yards and is tied for the most receiving touchdowns in all of college football. He’s also had at least six catches in every single game this year and has been the Crimson Tide’s most reliable target.
Much of his production has come without the help of injured receiver Jaylen Waddle who suffered a season-ending injury against Tennessee. Even with all the attention going towards Smith his elite footwork and hands have beaten even the top defenses in the SEC.
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 Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
