Alabama fans learned one thing as they left Bryant-Denny Stadium after the Crimson Tide defeated Vanderbilt: Ja’Corey Brooks needs to be starting at wide receiver.
Bryce Young connected with everyone, but Brooks got it all started in the Southeastern Conference opener. National media remembers the South Florida native recording a 28-yard, game-tying touchdown reception against Auburn in the 2021 Iron Bowl.
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His number got called again in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl versus Cincinnati. Alabama did not need the passing attack in the matchup; however, Young did find Brooks for a 44-yard touchdown at AT&T Stadium. The 6-foot-2, 196-pounder prides himself on exceptional routes, reliable hands, versatility, competitiveness, and toughness. He came as a four-star in the 2021 class, and Brooks reminded people why he is a dependable target. He posted his first career 100-yard game and became Alabama’s first 100-yard receiver of the season. Brooks had six catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns in a 55-3 victory for the Tide.
What a DIME!!! 👀👀 @_bryce_young @c7_brooks
📺@SECNetwork
🔗https://t.co/8imIOjWHV1 pic.twitter.com/wzYp41t0lP— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) September 25, 2022
He averaged 19.5 yards per reception, including a 34-yard score.
Alabama got Jermaine Burton and Tyler Harrell from the NCAA transfer, and it recruited Isaiah Bond, Kendrick Law, Aaron Anderson, Kobe Prentice, and Shazz Preston. Talent is everywhere at receiver for the Tide, but Brooks brings a fire that is needed.
He showed his separation from defensive backs with his routes and speed.
Brooks also has the leaping abilities to reach up and attack the football at its highest point. He can stop on a route, break it off, and work back to the quarterback. This aspect takes the pressure off Young as he sees he has a balanced receiver. It needs to incorporate Burton, Holden, Prentice, and others, but Brooks has to be the primary option. He spent a lot of time learning the game from John Metchie and Jameson Williams. Brooks is a star, and the Tide should make him the first option.
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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.
