SI

Alabama WR DeVonta Smith Runs Rampant, Shatters Records in National Championship Game

Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith now holds nearly every championship receiving record

Joseph Salvador

Alabama senior wide receiver DeVonta Smith nearly shattered every wide receiver record in a national championship game against Ohio State on Monday night. Unfortunately for Smith, he then missed almost the entire second half after dislocating a finger on his right hand.

With most of the second half yet to be played, Smith had 12 receptions for 215 yards and three touchdowns to boot. For perspective, the entire Ohio State offense had 191 yards of total offense at halftime. 

The previous national championship game record in the College Football Playoff era for catches was 10 by Clemson's Hunter Renfrow in 2017. LSU's Ja'Marr Chase holds the record for championship game receiving yards with 221—set just last year—which left Smith shy by just six yards. 

Smith also broke the record for most receiving yards in a CFP national championship half. The previous record was 183 from O.J. Howard in 2016. 

His numbers would even break BCS marks of college championships past. The reception record (11) and receiving yards record (199) were already in the rearview before both teams returned to the locker room for halftime. 

Unfortunately for Smith, he dislocated his finger in the beginning of the third quarter after a hit while juggling a pass from Mac Jones and went back to the locker room. He would never return, but the Tide didn't need him in the 52–24 win and Smith was awarded the game's offensive MVP award.

Celebrate Alabama's national championship win with Sports Illustrated's championship commemorative issue. You can also purchase classic Alabama covers in the SI cover store.

Published
Joseph Salvador
JOSEPH SALVADOR

Home/College