Alabama marked its second win of this season this Saturday, defeating the Wisconsin Badgers by 38-14. Ryan Williams was back in the squad after being sidelined due to injury and showcased a game-winning performance. But before his actions could speak, there were some whispers about his comeback during his absence.

While Ryan was benched last week, former Alabama RB and Legend Damien Harris shot blunt questions at Ryan, doubting his on-field abilities. “To me, he [Ryan Williams] looked out of shape,” Harris on CBS said. “He looked bigger than what he needs to be, he didn’t look confident. He hasn’t had a 100-yard game since Georgia. He hasn’t had a touchdown since, what was it, Mercer last year?” He then asked Ryan to deliver on the football field, rather than on TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.

Williams’ performance against the Badgers last week was like a on-field reply to Harris’ criticism. The 18-year-old WR caught a 75-yard and a 41-yard touchdown pass in quick intervals during the most crucial moments of the game. At the end, he had a total of 5 receptions for 165 yards and scored two touchdowns. This marks his first 100-yard game since last September. As most of them thought that the Damien Harris-Ryan Williams issue was settled, fellow WR Germie Bernard stepped in to defend his teammate.

On the latest edition of The Next Round podcast, Germie Bernad joined virtually for a quick chat. During the chat, Jim Dunaway asked about Ryan’s performance against the Badgers and how he feels about seeing him move. “First of all, everybody has seen what Ryan can do,” Bernard said. “I don’t understand why people sit here and doubt him after the one game that he has. “As a receiver, it’s inevitable that you’re gonna drop the ball at some point. That’s just how it is. He obviously doesn’t want to drop the ball. It’s just a lack of focus and something that he’s working on.” Williams caught five passes for 30 yards on 11 targets in a season-opening 31-17 loss to Florida State. He was credited with 3 drops by CBS Sports tracking in that game before hitting the bench due to the concussion.

“It was so great for him to go out there and hush some people up,” Bernard praised. “A lot of people were doubting him and stuff like that. I know who Ryan Williams is. I know the plays he can make. Praise and blame are the same thing. That’s how we look at stuff. It was good for him to continue to have a level mind and continue to work through that.” He continued saying, “Just being able to play next to him, man, is definitely a blessing. He’s electrifying. Something I wish I could have done when I was 18. That dude is unreal.” But the support is real.

Ryan Williams and Ty Simpson’s stocks are on the rise

After an impressive win against the Wisconsin Badgers, two prodigies from the Alabama Crimson Tide have seen a significant rise in their odds for the Heisman Trophy. According to FanDuel’s latest report, Alabama’s QB Ty Simpson’s odds for the prestigious trophy saw a significant difference from +4000 to +2200 points. He played an important role in Alabama’s win last week, where he passed 24 of 29 passes for 382 yards and scored 4 touchdowns. Simpson has covered a total of 862 yards and 10 TDs in total this year, leading the race in the SEC.

On the other hand, Ryan Williams has also seen a significant rise in his odds. The WR is now at +10000 from +15000 a week ago. His 165-yard reception and two TDs in the last game have really helped him move forward in the race. He now has 10 receptions for 195 yards and two touchdowns this season.

The Crimson Tide will have its next game on September 27, against the Georgia Bulldogs, after a bye week. Will their odds be the same when they return to action in Week 5? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.