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Nick Saban Talks Ryan Williams, Reminds Him of Former Alabama WR
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Nick Saban Talks Ryan Williams, Reminds Him of Former Alabama WR

Perhaps Rece Davis said it best on Saturday during “College GameDay.”

One of the final gifts former Alabama coach Nick Saban gave to the Crimson Tide was the signing of Ryan Williams, the 17-year-old freshman from Saraland High School.

The former coach turned ‘GameDay’ analyst explained what sets ‘Hollywood’ apart from so many other shows.

“Ryan Williams is a mature competitor, man,” Saban said. “He’s one of the most mature guys I’ve ever recruited. As a freshman, he showed maturity.

“What that really tells you when a guy is a mature competitor is that he can focus on the things that matter. For a 17-year-old, this guy is explosive. He’s got great hands. He can run after the catch.”

Half of his catches (6) have gone for touchdowns (3) in his first two games. He leads the Crimson Tide in receiving yards (207), yards per catch (34.50) and yards per game (103.5). And then there’s that other number: He’s only at 17.

“He’s the truth,” Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe explained during an appearance on “The Pivot.”

Milroe said what impressed him most about Williams was that he wanted the same training at Alabama as former Tide star and NFL receiver DeVonta Smith.

However, Saban said the freshman reminds him of another former receiver.

“I think this guy reminds me of Amari Cooper when he was a freshman,” Saban said. “I think this guy is going to have a great career.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_HeimHe can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.