Once Jaylen Waddle suffered a serious leg injury, some wondered how his absence would affect the Alabama offense, and how the Crimson Tide coaching staff would shift play-calling to adapt with DeVonta Smith in an enhanced role.

At a Rose Bowl press conference to preview the game with Notre Dame, Alabama offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said it’s Smith’s “football IQ” that has allowed the offense to use him in more versatile ways.

“What Smitty brings to the table is he’s a very smart football player,” Sarkisian said, via Bama Insider. “This guy’s got a very high football IQ. He’s a guy that understands the game big picture. Not just in one position or another. He recognizes coverages really well. So it’s allowed us to move him all over the field. Whether it’s in the slot, isolation type plays, in bunches. The reality of it is, he knows why we’re calling what we’re calling, and what we’re calling those things for.”

Sarkisian added that QB Mac Jones also understands why certain play are called, and it ultimately comes down to them making a play.

“I think Smitty has demonstrated that all year long, and I think it’s probably magnified since Jaylen went out, that his unique play-making ability shows up,” Sarkisian said. “He’s had a tremendous season, I’m so proud of him because I know it was a tough decision for him at the end of last season to come back. But clearly him coming back has been worth his while, and I’m sure it’s been very gratifying for him.”

Smith recently was named the 2020 AP Player of the Year, the first receiver to win the award, which has been given out since the 1998 season.