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Alabama won the game of the year on Saturday by besting SEC rival Georgia, 41-34. Freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams was the man of the hour as the contest came to a close.
Williams hauled in reception after reception, with each incredible catch topping the last. Those unfamiliar with the name before the Crimson Tide win got their official introductions.
The wideout totaled 177 yards on six catches, making a vaunted Georgia defense look silly time and again.
@collegegameday This play was awesome 😮🔥 #cfb #ncaafootball #alabama #football ♬ original sound – College GameDay
He couldn’t be stopped!
A big first half from the 17-year-old rookie helped his team build a 28-0 advantage, but Georgia would come storming back. Not only did the Bulldogs erase that four-score deficit, but they took their first lead of the game with just over two minutes left in play.
Have no fear, Ryan Williams is here! And he saved his best for last.
Just one play after falling behind, Jalen Milroe connected with his pass catcher for a 75-yard score. The scene in Bryant-Denny Stadium was absolutely insane.
@bleacherreport HE IS 17 YEARS OLD 😱 #collegefootball #cfb #alabama #rolltide #football ♬ original sound – bleacherreport
Not only would that catch give his team a win, but it had a major impact on his NIL valuation, too.
Ryan Williams doubled his NIL value after the UGA win!
That number comes from On3 Sports’ NIL calculator. The site says he’s now moved into the Top 15 in the sport as he sits at $1.5 million after previously being around $732,000.
Much of that jump comes from a reported 200,000-person boost in his social media following.
If he was hurting for NIL opportunities before, he’s not now! And his Crimson Tide teammates plan to make sure the money doesn’t become an issue after seeing his most recent performance.
CJ Dippre on Ryan Williams
“It’s like a simulation watching him play. He is great. If he had problems, he could take my NIL money. I’ll give it to him. He can have all mine. That is a player right there.” pic.twitter.com/S2IhfdKxZq
— Charlie Potter (@Charlie_Potter) September 29, 2024
Alabama will do what it takes to keep its star player happy, though he shouldn’t have much issue with monster performances like these!