Alabama football’s takeaways vs. Arkansas
4. This is why Alabama uses starters on special teams
Since the start of the season, we have debated whether or not stars should be used on special teams. When you are playing against inferior opponents, plays on special teams don’t matter as much. However, the Tide have consistently played their best players on punt and kick returns.
This is a risk. Plays on special teams are more likely to end in injuries. We saw this in the past with Eddie Jackson, and we saw it this season with Jaylen Waddle. There is a true debate as to whether or not it is worth using stars on special teams.
However, DeVonta Smith proved why the reward is worth the risk. Every time he touches the football, he has the potential to break the game. He gave the Crimson Tide excellent field position, and his touchdown on a punt return changed the momentum.
We will see if he can impact other games this year, but Alabama has a history of shining on punt and kick returns. Jaylen Waddle did great things in 2019. Kenyan Drake scored on a kick return against Clemson to win the 2015 title. From Javier Arenas to Cyrus Jones, Alabama has had some great returners. As long as DeVonta Smith remains healthy, this will be a great way for him to impact each and every game he plays in.