Ryan Williams’ mindset was clear as he made the biggest catch of his college career during No. 4 Alabama’s thrilling 41-34 win over No. 2 Georgia on Saturday night: “I can’t get tackled.”
In an electrifying play that has cemented his status as one of the nation’s top freshmen, Williams caught a 75-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jalen Milroe, spinning out of a tackle and sprinting down the right sideline to secure the victory. This clutch moment came right after Georgia had taken a late lead, completing a 28-point comeback. Williams’ touchdown, however, restored Alabama’s lead and eventually helped the Tide hold off the Bulldogs in this pivotal SEC matchup.
“It felt like it was happening in slow motion,” Williams said of the game-winning spin move. But after seeing the replay, he admitted it was a lot faster than it felt.
In a game where Alabama once led 28-0, Georgia’s furious second-half rally saw them take a 34-33 lead with just over two minutes remaining. However, on the very next play, Milroe delivered a perfect pass to Williams’ back shoulder, and the freshman receiver did the rest, leaving Georgia defenders in his wake.
“Somebody had to make a play,” Williams said. “We had come too far to let it slip away.”
The Emergence of a Star
Williams, just 17 years old, has quickly become one of Alabama’s most dangerous weapons. Through five games, he has already caught six touchdown passes and is averaging an incredible 28.9 yards per catch. He also had a jaw-dropping 54-yard bobbling catch in the third quarter against Georgia, setting up a crucial field goal. His connection with Milroe is undeniable and growing stronger with each game.
Milroe, who had a record-setting night with 374 passing yards, 117 rushing yards, and four total touchdowns, praised his young receiver’s work ethic. “Ryan is always working in the dark, always trying to get better,”Milroe said. “He’s only scratching the surface of what he can do.”
The chemistry between the two has become a crucial aspect of Alabama’s offensive success. Williams joked about their connection, saying, “He knows four plus two equals six,” referring to their jersey numbers. “I know four plus two equals six. The ball just has to go in the air.”
Freshmen Shine in High-Stakes Moments
Williams wasn’t the only freshman to make a massive impact in the game. Alabama cornerback Zabien Brown, who also wears No. 2, sealed the win with an interception in the end zone, cutting off Georgia’s final attempt to tie the game. With under a minute left, Brown leaped to pick off a pass from Georgia quarterback Carson Beck, ending the Bulldogs’ hopes.
Both Williams and Brown made crucial plays in a top-five matchup, showcasing Alabama’s ability to develop young talent. “Recruiting,” Milroe joked when asked how two freshmen were able to shine in such a big moment. But he was quick to add that both players are relentless in their work ethic. “They work hard when no one’s watching,” Milroe said. “They’re constantly trying to improve.”
A New Era for Alabama Under DeBoer
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer has continued to shape the program since taking over, and this victory against Georgia was another major statement. Williams had been a top target in Alabama’s 2024 recruiting class, ranked No. 3 overall by ESPN, and DeBoer worked tirelessly to keep him committed to the Tide after Nick Saban’s retirement.
DeBoer has been particularly impressed by Williams’ ability to make plays after the catch. “He’s doing it over and over again,” DeBoer said. “Getting the ball in his hands and making people miss, gaining yards after contact—that’s what separates him.”
With Alabama improving to 5-1 overall and 2-0 in the SEC, DeBoer emphasized the importance of building on this win. “What matters now is what we do from here. We’ve put in the work this offseason, and we’re seeing the results on the field, but we have to keep growing as a team.”
Georgia’s Rally Falls Short
Georgia’s head coach Kirby Smart acknowledged that Alabama was the better-prepared team early on, but his team showed resilience in the second half. After trailing 30-7 at halftime, the Bulldogs stormed back, led by Beck’s 439 passing yards and three touchdowns. However, three interceptions and a lost fumble proved too much to overcome.
Despite Georgia’s valiant effort, Alabama’s dynamic freshman duo and their veteran quarterback ultimately outshined the Bulldogs, giving DeBoer his first signature SEC win and handing Georgia its first regular-season loss in 42 games.
As Alabama moves forward, it’s clear that with talents like Williams and Brown, the future is bright for the Crimson Tide.
