Jake Coker and Richard Mullaney both were graduate transfers, yet it seems like Mullaney has adjusted faster to Alabama’s offense. The former Oregon State speed demon anticipates much playing time this season for the Crimson Tide. He brings a lot of experience to the table.
Mullaney, 6-foot-3, 209 pounds, has impressed Alabama head coach Nick Saban, his staff and the players with his hands, footwork and route running abilities.
Mullaney caught 83 balls for 1,160 yards and five touchdowns in three seasons at Oregon State. He had a prolific year in 2013, totaling 788 yards and three touchdowns on 52 catches.
It’s a win-win situation for Mullaney if either Coker or Alec Morris wins the starting job at quarterback because he is use to having a signal-caller with a strong arm. Ex-Oregon State quarterback Sean Mannion threw for 10,072 yards and 67 touchdowns in Mullaney’s tenure.
Coach Saban mentioned Mullaney as a player that can have an impact on special teams, but he can also be the safety valve on third down that Alabama missed last season.
Former Alabama wideout Kevin Norwood was pivotal on two national championship teams.
He was able to consistently move the chain on third downs with clutch receptions.
Having this type of player on offense opens up more for other guys. Amari Cooper was dynamic in 2014; however, Arkansas and Ole Miss were able to successfully game plan against him because no one else was consistent. Alabama wants to spray the ball around and in order to do it, more receivers have to be willing to catch the ball and get upfield.
A bigger Norwood and a younger Wes Welker. Both of these characteristics could generally describe Mullaney. He’s a possession receiver with play making capabilities.
He and redshirt junior wide receiver Chris Black should see much time in the slot
Mullaney has been third in position drills this fall, behind Black and ArDarius Stewart.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
