Alabama Crimson Tide football coach Kalen DeBoer brought Ryan Grubb back into his offense this summer in a move that’s predicted to have a major impact on one of the team’s blossoming superstars.
DeBoer had hired Grubb for his initial staff in January 2024, but Grubb didn’t want to leave Seattle and instead worked with the Seahawks in an uneven partnership that lasted a single season.
The two needed each other this offseason. Alabama’s biggest offensive weapon, sophomore receiver Ryan Williams, is perhaps the biggest beneficiary of the dynamic offensive duo being back in business together.
“Williams (6-0, 175) – another sensational sophomore receiver – had 865 yards and eight TDs on 18.0 yards per reception as a freshman for the Crimson Tide. He had six catches for 177 yards and a memorable 75-yard TD in a 41-34 victory against Georgia on Sept. 28. Williams will need to be a more consistent playmaker – and the addition of offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb – who worked with Kalen DeBoer in Washington – will help,” the Sporting News’ Bill Bender wrote in his write-up of the Preseason All-America team.
It’s all up to likely starting quarterback Ty Simpson getting Williams the ball in good spots. So far in camp, Simpson has impressed the most of anyone in the room.
Crimson Tide QB coach Nick Sheridan likes Keelon Russell and Austin Mack’s work ethic, but Simpson was the signal-caller he indicated showed the most progress with the playbook.
“Probably some maturity,” Sheridan said of Simpson’s growth, per AL.com. “Command and presence. Just ownership in what we’re asking him to do. You’ve seen that continual growth throughout his career. I’ve known Ty for a long time. His overall attention to detail and maturity. That’s natural. Guys get older and have more experience. I certainly have seen that out of Ty and his communication. I think he’s done a really good job in that way.”
A perfect storm of Grubb’s return and Simpson’s natural progression meeting opportunity could produce explosive results for an Alabama football program that badly needs to return to the CFP after Nick Saban’s sudden retirement for the fanbase’s sake.
At least on offense, things seem to look good for the Tide.