Alabama receiver DeVonta Smith and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian did their best to keep the focus out of their own defining moments of the race as they prepare for Monday’s clash with the state of Ohio at the National College Football Playoff Championship.
On Wednesday, Smith opted not to enjoy becoming the first recipient 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,” Smith said. “It was just a blessing to be in this situation [quarterback Mac Jones and coach Nick Saban]. But now it’s the past and now it’s happening in the state of Ohio. ”
Smith, who led the nation in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, will likely be tied with Ohio State All-America cornerback Shaun Wade in Monday’s championship game (8 p.m. ET, ESPN).
Smith called Wade a “cunning” player who is “a coach with everything he does.”
“I’m looking forward to my last game,” Smith said. “I only have the latter guaranteed, so I’m looking forward to being able to play against him.”
Smith is Mel Kiper’s fourth-best contender in the 2021 NFL draft and his No. 1 receiver.
Sarkisian, who will become the Texas Longhorns’ next coach after Monday’s game, said “I’m clearly excited about the opportunity” that awaits him in Austin. However, he asked on Wednesday that any questions relate to his remaining obligations to the Crimson Tide.
Sarkisian, who was previously head coach at Washington (2009-2013) and USC (2014-2015), has been Alabama’s offensive coordinator for the past two seasons.
“The commitment I made to coach Saban two years ago is the same one I made with these players, and that focuses on that game,” Sarkisian said. “Pay the attention that this game deserves so that our players have the opportunity to go out and play to the best of their abilities.”
Sarkisian said he is trying to keep this week as normal as possible.
“Any of the free time I have, it’s catching my attention for work in Texas, whether it’s personal or hiring, things of that nature,” he said.
Sarkisian said Alabama’s recovery and return specialist Jaylen Waddle fell with an ankle injury against Tennessee in mid-October and has not played in any games since. Sarkisian would not provide any further updates.
“We’ll see where it goes from here,” Sarkisian said.
Prior to his injury, Waddle grabbed 25 passes and four touchdowns. As a return specialist, he has averaged 19.3 yards in point performances during his three seasons.
Smith said Waddle looked good in practice, but only offered a brief answer when asked if he thought his teammate would be able to play.
“No comment,” Smith said.