"Best freshman WR in the SEC": CFB fans buzz as 17YO Ryan Williams records first career TD vs. Western Kentucky

Alabama kicked off its season against Western Kentucky at Bryant-Denny Stadium under new head coach Kalen DeBoer on Saturday. The spotlight, however, was turned on 17-year-old wide receiver Ryan Williams. Despite his age, the buzz around this young star is undeniable as he enters the 2024 season.

Williams, a 5-star recruit, wasn’t expected to make waves so soon, especially since he's still high-school age. Yet, in his very first game, he silenced any doubts. Initially listed as a backup, Williams quickly made his presence felt.

In the first half, he caught an 84-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jalen Milroe, electrifying the crowd.

Soon Williams shined again with his second catch, turning it into a stunning 55-yard touchdown. He's proving unstoppable against WKU tonight.

College football fans couldn't contain their excitement on social media:

“Best freshman WR in the SEC!” a fan commented.

“Was told Cam Coleman was better,” another fan wrote, referring to rival Auburn's star WR recruit.

“Ryan Williams >>> Cam Coleman,” one fan commented.

Meanwhile, other fans compared Williams to Ohio State's freshman wideout, Jeremiah Smith.

“Better than Jeremiah Smith. This kid supposed to be in high school,” a fan wrote.

“Got half Jeremiah Smiths yards in just 1 catch,” another one commented.

“Kid was born in 2007 wild,” one commented.

Ryan Williams joins the Alabama Crimson Tide after stellar high school career

Ryan Williams, a standout five-star recruit, joined the Crimson Tide this summer as Alabama’s top prospect in the 2024 class. Competing for a spot among wide receivers like Germie Bernard, Kendrick Law, and Kobe Prentice, Williams brings a strong track record with him.

He’s no stranger to Bryant-Denny Stadium, having shined there in the AHSAA Super 7 championships last December. Leading Saraland against Clay-Chalkville in the Class 6A state title game, Williams racked up 343 all-purpose yards and scored four touchdowns, including a stunning 86-yard kickoff return.

In 2022, he became the first sophomore ever to be named Mr. Football by the Alabama Sports Writers Association after scoring 42 touchdowns. Williams also led Saraland High School to its first state championship with a 14-1 record.

Williams capped off his junior season at Saraland with 72 catches for 1,324 yards and 19 touchdowns.

Although he initially decommitted after Nick Saban's retirement, he reaffirmed his commitment to Alabama on January 24.