A look at five of the country’s premier college football receivers who♉ could pick up where Alabama’s DeVonta Smith left off last year:
Romeo Doubs, Nevada: Doubs isn’t going to lead Nevada to a national championship like Smith did for Alabama, but he should put up absurd numbers after racking up over 1,000 yards and nine scores a year ago in nine gam🍨es. Unlike some of the nation’s other top receivers, the 6-foot-2 Doubs doesn’t have to get used to a new quarterback after thriving with Carson Strong a year ago.
Ty Fryfogle, Indiana: A dynamic deep threat, Fryfogle averaged 19.5 yards per reception a year ago and hauled in a career-best 721 receiving y♐ards. His numbers would’ve been even better had quarterback Michael Penix Jr. not missed the season’s final two games with a knee injury.
John Metchie III, Alabama: On most teams, Metchie would’ve been a No. 1 receiver last year. He’ll get that opportunity for Alabama this season after notching 55 catches for 916 yards and s♑ix scores as a soph𒊎omore. One big question: How long will it take for the 6-foot Metchie to develop chemistry with new quarterback Bryce Young?
Chris Olave, Ohio State: He plays bigger than his 6-foot-1 frame and can beat you with precise route-running or game-breaking spee♈d. His 2020 season of 50 catches for 729 yards and seven touchdowns in seven games was strong. Expect 2021 to be even better. The one issue for Olave making a Heisman run is the talent he shares the position with, in particular Garrett Wilson. The Buckeyes receiving core is loaded, which could diminish Olave’s numbers.
Justyn Ross, Clemson: If he’s healthy and himself, Ross is as dynamic as any receiv𓃲er in the country. But that’s a big if after he missed all of last season with a spinal injury, after producing 112 receptions for 1,865 yards and 17 scores his first two seasons at Clemson. He also has to get used to playing with a new quarterback in sophomore D.J. Uiagalelei.