University of Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith won the Heisman Trophy during a virtual ceremony on Tuesday. Smith beat out a group of three other finalists that includes Kyle Trask, Mac Jones and Trevor Lawrence. Smith is the fourth member of the Crimson Tide to win the award and he is the first wide receiver to earn the honor in 30 years.
During his acceptance speech, he thanked his teammates, coaches, family and community. Standing at 6'1 and weighing 175 pounds, he also told young players not to let their size stop them from achieving their dreams.
"To all the young kids out there that's not the biggest, not the strongest, just keep pushing, because I'm not the biggest," he said.
"I've been doubted a lot just because of my size. Really, it just comes down to you put your mind to it, you can do it. No job is too big."
Affectionately known as "Smitty" by his teammates, the Heisman Trophy winner is widely respected on and off the field. He set an SEC record for career touchdowns and an Alabama record for career receiving yards. His talents not only earned him the Heisman Trophy, but he also won the Associated Player of the Year award.
"He does everything exactly right," University of Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban said.
He has a great understanding of what he needs to do to make plays, and he makes them every chance he gets. So we're very fortunate to have him."
In his most recent outing, Smith continued building his legacy in the world of college football. With 130 receiving yards and three touchdowns, he helped the Crimson Tide defeat the Notre Dame Fighting Irish by a score of 31-14 in the Rose Bowl. He and his teammates will return to the field on January 11 in Miami, Florida for the College Football National Championship.
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