Prior to the Mississippi State game, different members of national media decided to write Alabama football off the national championship path because of a season-ending injury to Jaylen Waddle.
Waddle, a junior and native of Houston, Texas, is a very explosive playmaker at wide receiver.
He sustained a right ankle injury against Tennessee and it required surgery. Despite the frustration of not having him, the Crimson Tide still totaled 48 points in its win over the Volunteers and it shutout the Bulldogs.
Slade Bolden, a sophomore, is the immediate player to step up. He recorded 94 yards receiving on six catches two weeks ago and has much experience.
Behind him, Javon Baker (true freshman) looks to keep the Tide rolling.
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A native of Powder Springs, Ga., Nick Saban talked about Baker’s catch radius and his teammates are highly impressed with the four-star target. While Bolden provides sure hands in different situations, Baker gives Alabama the option of stretching the field with big plays.
According to sophomore safety, Jordan Battle, he compared Baker’s skills to Amari Cooper in an interview.
Alabama freshman wide receiver, Javon Baker (No. 5) catching a pass over Brandon Turnage (No. 7) in fall camp/ Photo from Kent Gidley of Alabama Athletics
On Friday of last week, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine broke down both receivers on In My Own Words.
With the consistency of DeVonta Smith and emergence of John Metchie, the Tide will be fine at the position.
The duo of Bolden and Baker should keep defensive minds guessing.
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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.
