Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian did their best to stay focused outside their own career-defining moments as they prepared for Monday’s clash against Ohio State at the College Football Playoff National Championship.
On Wednesday, Smith chose not to become the first wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy since 1991. He said he went home after Tuesday’s virtual ceremony and “went straight to sleep”.
“Last night was a great feeling,” said Smith. “It was a blessing to be in that situation with [quarterback Mac Jones and coach Nick Saban]. But now this is past and now we are going to the state of Ohio. “
Smith, who led the country in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, is likely to face Ohio State All-America cornerback Shaun Wade in Monday’s championship game (8 pm ET, ESPN).
Smith called Wade a “shrewd” player who is “a coach in everything he does”.
“I’m looking forward to my last game,” said Smith. “I’m only guaranteed in the latter, so I’m looking forward to playing against him.”
Smith is Mel Kiper’s fourth best candidate in the 2021 draft of the NFL and her number one ranked receiver.
Sarkisian, who will become the next Texas Longhorns coach after Monday’s title game, said “I’m clearly excited about the opportunity” that awaits him in Austin. However, he asked on Wednesday that all questions refer to his remaining duties with Maré Crimson.
Sarkisian, who was head coach in Washington (2009 to 2013) and USC (2014 to 2015), has been Alabama’s offensive coordinator for the past two seasons.
“The commitment I made to coach Saban two years ago is the same as I did with these players, and that is focusing on this game,” said Sarkisian. “Give this game the attention it deserves, so that our players have the opportunity to play the best they can.”
Sarkisian said he is trying to keep this week as normal as possible.
“Any free time I have is drawing my attention to work in Texas, whether recruiting or recruiting, things like that,” he said.
Sarkisian said Alabama receiver and return specialist Jaylen Waddle, who suffered an ankle injury against Tennessee in mid-October and has not played in a game since, played on Tuesday. Sarkisian would not provide any updates beyond that.
“We’ll see where it goes from here,” said Sarkisian.
Before his injury, Waddle took 25 passes and four touchdowns. As a return specialist, he averaged 19.3 yards on punt returns during his three seasons.
Smith said Waddle looked fine in practice, but gave only a brief answer when asked if he believed his teammate would be able to play.
“No comment,” said Smith.