“Slim Reaper” DeVonta Smith was a problem in college

Considered one of the most dynamic wide receivers in college football history, DeVonta Smith dominated the sport from 2017 to 2020. Over the course of his four years in Tuscaloosa, Smith developed into a central figure in one of the most powerful offensive forces in the country, etching his name in both the school and NCAA record books.

His journey from young talent in 2017 to Heisman Trophy winner in 2020 is a testament to his skill, work ethic and football IQ.

DeVonta Smith’s tenure in Alabama cements his legacy

Smith came to Alabama as a four-star recruit from Amite, Louisiana.

In his freshman year (2017), he was part of a strong and talented receiver team that included future NFL stars such as Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III. Despite limited opportunities, Smith showed his playmaking skills in crucial moments.

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The most notable moment of his freshman season was the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Smith caught the game-winning 41-yard touchdown pass from Tua Tagovailoa in overtime to secure a thrilling 26-23 victory over Georgia. The play became an iconic moment in Alabama football history and instantly put Smith in the spotlight despite his relatively modest stats that year (eight passes caught for 160 yards and three touchdowns).

As a sophomore, Smith’s role in Alabama’s offense expanded in 2018.

He recorded 42 catches for 693 yards and six touchdowns, playing alongside standout receivers Jeudy, Ruggs and Jaylen Waddle. Although Jeudy was the team’s primary target, Smith consistently proved to be a reliable option, known for his crisp route running and sure hands.

Alabama again reached the national championship game and despite the loss to Clemson, Smith’s continued development as a receiver laid the foundation for his breakthrough in the following seasons.

Smith’s 2019 junior season was a huge leap forward in terms of performance and recognition. Even with a receiver corps that included Jeudy, Ruggs and Waddle, Smith stood out as the team’s most productive receiver, leading Alabama with 1,256 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns on 68 receptions.

His ability to stretch the field, win contested catches, and break tackles after the catch made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

One of Smith’s most notable performances came in 2019 against Ole Miss, when he caught 11 passes for a school-record 274 yards and five touchdowns. That performance was emblematic of his growing role as the go-to receiver in critical moments.

Smith reaches the CFB summit with the Heisman Trophy

Smith’s final season in 2020 is one for the ages. After Jeudy and Ruggs moved on to the NFL, Smith became the undisputed leader of the Crimson Tide’s receiver corps.

Under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian, Smith thrived in Alabama’s high-powered offense and delivered one of the best seasons in college football history.

That year, Smith caught 117 passes for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns, breaking numerous school and SEC records. His performances earned him unanimous All-American honors and SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors.

More importantly, he became the first wide receiver since Desmond Howard in 1991 to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest of all time.

Throughout the season, the chemistry between Smith and quarterback Mac Jones was impeccable.

He performed consistently in key games, including the SEC Championship, where he caught 15 passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Florida. His dominance continued in the College Football Playoff, where he was named the Offensive MVP of the Rose Bowl after posting 130 receiving yards and three touchdowns in the first half against Notre Dame.

Smith’s best performance came in the national championship game against Ohio State. In just one half, he caught 12 passes for 215 yards and three touchdowns, helping Alabama to a 52-24 victory and its third national title in six years.

Although he had to leave the game early due to a hand injury, his impact was undeniable and he was named the game’s Offensive MVP.

Smith finished his college career as Alabama’s all-time record holder in receiving yards (3,965), receiving touchdowns (46) and receptions (235). His combination of speed, precision and football intelligence made him one of the most feared players in college football, and his 2020 season is considered one of the best individual seasons in the history of the sport.

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Smith declared for the 2021 NFL Draft, where he was selected 10th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles. Although his size (6’0″, 175 lbs) raised some concerns, he proved during his college career that he could overcome any physical limitations with his outstanding skills and competitive spirit.

At Alabama, Smith cemented his place as a legend, leaving behind a string of pivotal performances, record-breaking statistics and championship victories.

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