Bill O’Brien has mastered two positions in his coaching career: quarterback and tight end.
Whether it at Penn State, New England Patriots, or Houston Texans, he produced success at both spots.
At the University of Alabama, fans want to see tight ends get more love. The Crimson Tide featured O.J. Howard, Irv Smith, and Miller Forristall in recent years; however, its play-calling has not targeted the group consistently.
Alabama went to Howard when it was most convenient. Forristall made plays, but he was not one of the primary targets. During the last seven games of the 2020 season, Jahleel Billingsley came alive. He totaled 18 receptions for 287 yards with three scores, but 17 of his catches came in matchups from Kentucky to Ohio State.
His three scores came in the last seven games, including one against Notre Dame in the Rose Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Fourteen of Billingsley’s 18 receptions went for either first downs or touchdowns for the Tide.
O’Brien’s experience in popping out tight ends gives Billingsley a chance to have a special season in the fall.
He was seventh for receptions last year, but the junior could be the second receiving option next season. Last week, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine discussed Billingsley via In My Own Words.
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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
