Former Alabama QB scolds Ryan Williams: ‘Some of the worst route running I’ve ever seen’

No one was free from criticism after Alabama’s loss to Florida State last weekend, even star wide receiver Ryan Williams.

Delivering the critiques was noneother than former Crimson Tide quarterback AJ McCarron during an appearence on The Bama Standard this week. During the show, McCarron laid into Williams’ route running ability during the 31-17 loss to the Seminoles, scolding the sophomore’s fundamentals and size.

“That’s some of the worst route running I’ve ever seen in my life,” McCarron said. “Ever. He was non-existant in this game. He plays way too high. He doesn’t look any bigger. He doesn’t look any stronger he doesn’t look any faster. He runs way too high for a slot receiver.

“He was getting gloved this game.”

Following an extremely promising freshman season, Williams ended Saturday’s contest with five receptions for just 30 yards. Williams would also the leave the game with a head injury as Kalen DeBoer would later share would keep him day-to-day.

Despite the injury, McCarron is still looking for Williams and to be challenged by his teammates to improve while also drawing comparisons to fellow Ohio State sophomore receiver Jeremiah Smith.

“He needs to step up,” McCarron said. “All this hype and everything, guess what? You’re not getting drafted on one year of film. You’re not Jeremiah Smith brother. Jeremiah Smith could have come out last year and been drafted the first pick overall.

“You’re not at that level, so step up, make plays and get open. You’re jogging way too many routes. Somebody needs to challenge him.”

Alabama dropped to No. 21 in the AP Poll following Saturday’s loss and will now look to rebound this weekend against ULM in its home opener.