He had success at Indiana University, but he is on the verge of winning his first national championship as one-half of Alabama football’s newest strength staff.
Crimson Tide fans have thoroughly enjoyed the work of Dr. Matt Rhea and David Ballou this season.
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After being hired in March, the two put together an exceptional speed, strength and injury prevention plan that propelled Alabama to an undefeated campaign and a Southeastern Conference title. While Ballou gave the Tide a powerful offensive line, Rhea’s speed development program helped DeVonta Smith, Najee Harris and John Metchie achieve huge production.
The duo even helped Mac Jones put together a very special year.
As the Director of Performance Science, Rhea is extremely proud of Jones, Smith and Harris.
All three student-athletes finished in the top-five of this year’s Heisman finalists process.
Jones and Smith are two of the four finalists represented for the award, while Harris was fifth in the voting. The Tide has Mark Ingram (2009) and Derrick Henry (2015) to win the coveted bronze honor, and it looks like a third Heisman winner is on the way. For their discipline, leadership and teamwork, Rhea posted a congratulatory tweet for Jones, Smith and Harris. He also shared a message to young players.
Congrats to Mac, DeVonta, and Najee for all being in the top 5 in Heisman votes. Incredible feat! Young players take notes. Great teammates. Hard workers. No drama. Happy for each other. Just want to do whatever the team needs for us to win. Role Models. #RollTide
— Matt Rhea, PhD (@MattRheaPhD) December 25, 2020
“Young players take notes,” Rhea said. “Great teammates. Hard workers. No drama. Happy for each other. Just want to do whatever the team needs for us to win. Role Models.”
Nick Saban knew it was time for a change, and the tandem of Rhea and Ballou was the right move.
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These two have done well and made a smooth transition into the process.
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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.
