Alabama football has not found a No. 1 option at wide receiver after five games, but does it at least have an emerging offensive playmaker it can trust?
Amari Niblack, a sophomore tight end, showed the team something last week versus Mississippi State.
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He was a matchup nightmare for the Bulldogs’ defense, collecting three receptions for 61 yards.
Niblack possesses the size, speed, hands, and routes to frustrate linebackers and safeties. The 6-foot-4, 233-pounder nearly had a touchdown catch against MSU; however, he could not get a foot in bounds. Niblack seems to have chemistry with sophomore quarterback Jalen Milroe, which should grow as they connect throughout the season. The South Florida native was significant in Alabama’s 40-17 victory at Davis Wade Stadium, but he is also third on the team for receiving yards (158). Niblack is tied for second in catches (eight), tied for second in touchdowns (two), and stretches the field with 19.7 yards per reception. We have not seen much from Ja’Corey Brooks or Kendrick Law. Isaiah Bond and Kobe Prentice have had good moments so far, and Malik Benson has five catches this season. Jermaine Burton leads the team in receiving yards (189) and has two touchdowns, but this may be an opportunity for a tight end to lead the group. Niblack had a great offseason and it has translated to early success.
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The best friend to a young quarterback is an explosive tight end. Niblack provides Milroe with that option.
It is imperative for Tommy Rees, Alabama’s offensive coordinator, to get Niblack involved more. The Crimson Tide faces Texas A&M this week and the Southeastern Conference schedule gets tougher from here.
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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.
