Jameson Williams went down with a knee injury early in the second quarter of the national title game against Georgia, and it was a devastating blow for the Tide’s offense.

Williams, who has been Alabama’s best receiver all season, was injured following a 40-yard completion from Bryce Young. He was helped off the field, and he didn’t return to the game.

With Williams’ absence on offense, Alabama lacked a true vertical threat who could stretch Georgia’s defense, and the Bulldogs outscored Alabama 30-12 once Williams left the game.

Nick Saban was asked about the severity to Williams’ knee injury during his postgame press conference.

“He has a knee injury,” Saban told reporters, via ASAP Sports. “We won’t know the extent of the knee injury until we get an MRI. He actually wanted to play in the second half and the medical staff wouldn’t let him, which I think was smart because he has a future as a football player.

“Look, this guy contributed tremendously to our team all year. He has great speed. He’s a vertical threat. I think our offensive coaches did a great job of utilizing his talent this year. He’s been very productive. Anytime you lose players like this it has an impact on your team.”

When Saban and Kirby Smart met at midfield following the game, the Georgia head coach asked about Williams’ injury.

“They think he might have an ACL injury,” Saban said.