Alabama Football: Jaylen Waddle would change everything

Jaylen Waddle playing for Alabama football would change everything

We are on the verge of the National Championship, and there are still questions that haven’t been answered. As of right now, we don’t know if Jaylen Waddle will play for Alabama football against the Ohio State Buckeyes. The good news for Alabama fans is that signs are at least pointing towards him being available for this game. If he can play significant snaps, that changes everything.

Waddle had over 100 receiving yards in every game this season before he got hurt against Tennessee. Since he went out, DeVonta Smith has seen his averages increase by 20 yards a game on the way to winning the Heisman Trophy. Smitty has blossomed in the absence of Waddle, which has been crucial to the Tide’s success.

We have also seen the emergence of Jahleel Billingsley as a weapon. Alabama is now running more 12-personnel, and Billingsley is making a highlight in every game.

You can also add the improvement of players like John Metchie and Slade Bolden. Both of these receivers are drawing harder assignments with Jaylen Waddle being gone. While their numbers might not reflect it, they have certainly become better receivers this season.

All of this has made Alabama football an offensive juggernaut. Between these receiving threats and Najee Harris running like a maniac, this has still been the best offense that Alabama has ever seen.

Without Jaylen Waddle, the rest of the Alabama offense had to step up. They did, and they are better players because of it. We might now get to see Waddle added to this improved group of players to become an absolute force to be reckoned with.

Waddle would also change how Ohio State defends. Their best defensive back is Shaun Wade. Wade is a solid slot corner, but he has struggled as an outside guy. Without Waddle, they would likely have to put Wade on DeVonta Smith and hope for the best. If Waddle comes back, they might move Wade to the slot and double-team Smitty. We’ve seen from LSU what happens when you don’t use your best players to stop DeVonta Smith. In fact, it led to his Heisman moment.

Adding Waddle really changes the outlooks on this game. If he can be a pivotal factor for Alabama football, their hopes of winning should skyrocket.