Former Alabama QB AJ McCarron joined the McCready and Siskey podcast on Tuesday to discuss Alabama's shocking two-touchdown loss to Florida State last Saturday.
McCarron shared many thoughts. He was fired up and disappointed, echoing what many Crimson Tide fans have felt in the aftermath of the loss. McCarron had a front row seat for the game on the Alabama sideline.
The former National Champion had a lot to say about star WR Ryan Williams, who did not have the 2025 debut that he hoped for. Williams was one of the top freshmen in the country a year ago, and a lot has been expected of him as a sophomore.
Williams struggled in the slot. It was clear he was a big part of the game plan, and he was targeted 11 times. But he mustered only five catches for 30 yards. He had three drops, including one on a screen pass that looked like it could have busted for a big play had he secured the football.
Williams left the game in the second half after taking a hard hit. He was ultimately diagnosed with a concussion and is currently going through protocol, with his status very much in doubt for Saturday's matchup against UL Monroe.
McCarron believes Williams played timidly, which, to be fair, is probably the word to describe the majority of the guys who suited up in white in Tallahassee.
"He didn't look good inside," McCarron said. "When he was inside running routes, he looked terrified going across the middle. Terrified to get hit.
"The difference between him and DeVonta Smith is DeVonta Smith went across the middle and would catch balls. Ryan Williams does not want to go across the middle at all. He has a scared factor to him."
Everyone needs to relax with their criticism of Ryan Williams
Williams didn't have a good game on Saturday. But guess what? You can probably use one hand to list the players who did. But because Williams is a star, he's going to get more criticism. That's fine. It comes with the territory.
At least McCarron's criticism of Williams is about football. The folks who take these opportunities to criticize him for off-field stuff that holds no weight to what happens between the lines need to get a grip.
These kids have lives off the field. Just like you have a life away from your job. Williams bringing a stuffed animal to the game, or letting his little sister paint his nails, or hosting a podcast, is not what caused him to struggle against Florida State.
I have a lot of concerns about this team after Saturday's loss in Tallahassee.
Ryan Williams is not one of them.