He was frustrated during his presser after Alabama’s home opener versus Mercer, but Nick Saban witnessed some bright moments in the game too.
JoJo Earle, a true freshman wide receiver, is very talented.
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People were shocked when he flipped from Louisiana State University to the Crimson Tide during the early signing period; however, Alabama fans are thrilled to have him.
He got a chance to play with the first-team offense and did not disappoint. The 5-foot-10, 170-pounder was the team’s leading receiver with seven receptions for 85 yards in a 48-14 victory.
Earle’s longest catch came on a 39-yard rainbow from Paul Tyson.
His play was reminiscent of Jaylen Waddle’s catch versus Missouri in 2020 and Waddle’s airborne touchdown grab against Auburn in the 2019 Iron Bowl. Despite his size, Earle showed body control – snatching the ball from the defender on the play. Three of his seven catches went for first downs while he averaged 12.1 yards per reception. The native Texan also recorded his first career 100-yard game from scrimmage. Earle returned two punts for 45 yards, including a long return of 29 yards.
He set Alabama’s offense in prime field position.
Last week, Coach Saban told reporters that Earle is “Waddle-like” in his skill set.
“JoJo Earle is just a freshman, but I think this guy is special. He can be special,” Saban said. “He’s also a really good returner, and we’re trying to get him to be a little bit more confident back there.”
He may not be as dangerous as Waddle was now; however, Earle will get there.
The former four-star and two-time Texas Class 5A Division-II state champion tallied 130 total yards on nine touches. As he continues to grow, Earle will become a problem for defenses.
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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 “watch” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
