It was frustrating for Alabama fans to watch their team not compete for a Southeastern Conference or a College Football Playoff National Championship in the 2022 season.
However, it was more concerning with the team having several mental errors and dropped passes.
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The Crimson Tide had a former Heisman Trophy winner at quarterback, but its wide receivers failed to help him. Bryce Young did all he could to keep a smile on his face, yet he had to have been angry inside with the dropped passes. Alabama saw improvement from its wide outs later in the season, but it was too late. Louisiana State University would represent the Western Division of the SEC in the conference championship, and a two-loss Alabama was not playing for a national championship. Young’s departure to the National Football League leaves a quarterback competition that Tide fans will talk about until the season starts on Sept. 2.
Alabama’s receivers can ease pressure off its signal-caller by consistently catching passes.
Jermaine Burton, a returning senior, struggled with drops at times last year. He transferred from the University of Georgia in 2022, totaling 40 catches for 677 yards receiving yards (team-high) and seven touchdowns. Burton had his best performance against Austin Peay with seven catches for 128 yards and two scores. He also brought in three passes for 87 yards, including a 12-yard touchdown reception in the Allstate Sugar Bowl against Kansas State. Burton helped the Crimson Tide to a 45-20 victory.
He explained to reporters in Thursday’s media availability for players how the receivers will limit drops.
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“We have taken initiative in our own hands and staying after practice to do what ever it takes,” Burton said.
“We are getting on jug machines, doing drills with a weighted two-pound ball, but mainly we are just catching, catching, catching because you are not going to get all catches in practice. It is up to you to stay after practice to get all the catches you need.”
The Tide will need this regardless of whomever is at quarterback.
If Alabama has players consistently catching passes, its offense will be balanced and fun under Tommy Rees.
Burton and the receivers will have a chance to respond with greatness in Saturday’s scrimmage.
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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.
