Breaking: 5-Star Alabama WR Confirms Flip To Auburn Tigers
A former 5-star recruit and current Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver recently discussed the pivotal moment that stopped him from flipping his commitment to Auburn. Both Alabama and Auburn often compete for the same top high school talent, especially in-state recruits. Last year, they were both vying for Ryan Williams, one of the nation’s top prospects in the 2024 class. Williams, a 17-year-old freshman from Saraland, Alabama, reclassified from the 2023 class and now plays for Alabama.
While still uncommitted, Williams took an unofficial visit to Auburn during the Iron Bowl weekend when Alabama played there. On the “New Wave Podcast,” he revealed that the Auburn coaching staff gave him an ultimatum to commit on the spot if they won the game. “Before the game, they were like, ‘When we win, you’re going to commit at center field, and we’ll rush the field,'” Williams recalled.
The game became an instant classic. With 43 seconds left, Auburn was leading 24-20, and Alabama faced a 4th and goal from the 31-yard line. Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe then threw a game-winning touchdown to Isaiah Bond. Williams shared his thoughts during that tense moment: “It’s 4th and 31, and I was shaking in my boots. If they had stopped them, we were rushing the field right there. I was like, ‘Yeah, I’m gonna run to the field, I’ll do it.'”
Despite being on an Auburn visit, Williams admitted he didn’t want to storm the field even if the Tigers won. “I didn’t want to do it. Then, next thing you know, he threw it. I was shocked.” After Alabama’s victory, Williams didn’t have to follow through with a commitment to Auburn.
Ryan Williams Tells INSANE Iron Bowl Story… 😱 @Ryanwms1 pic.twitter.com/4j4r2gOlgm
— New Wave Pod w/ Ryan Williams & Jaylan Mbakwe 🎙️ (@TheNewWaveShow) September 18, 2024
Before ultimately choosing to attend the University of Alabama, Ryan Williams made five visits to Auburn compared to just one at Alabama. Now, as a freshman for the Crimson Tide, Williams has made an impact in just three games, recording 10 receptions for 285 yards and four touchdowns. No. 4 Alabama has a bye in Week 4 but will host No. 2 Georgia on Saturday, September 28, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.