It is the first time a wide receiver has won the prestigious Desmond Howard Award in Michigan in 1991, and Smith becomes only the fourth wide receiver to win the Heisman since its founding in 1935.
One college football season, unlike any other, also had an awards ceremony like any other. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Smith accepted the practical award on the campus of the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa. The award is usually given in December at a star-studded event in New York.
But a season that usually begins in August did not begin until the end of September.
The senior pitch had a dominant season for the undefeated Sea, catching 105 passes for 1,641 meters and 20 touchdowns.
“I just feel a little relieved that it’s over now (and) I can focus on this last game,” Smith said. “I feel great just hearing my name.”
Smith is expected to play in the upcoming Alabama national game against the Ohio State Buckeyes set for Jan. 11 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
The Heisman Trophy is presented to the player who is voted the most outstanding football player in college. Three Alabama players won the award – Smith, who quickly beat Mark Ingram in 2009 and Derrick Henry in 2015.
“It’s a blessing. Those guys set a standard,” he said. “And I’m just excited to have the chance to come here and try to play that standard and set the standard for everyone else who follows.”
Smith won the prize with 1,856 points. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson’s quarterback, which many commentators predict as the first pick in the NFL draft, was second with 1,187 points. Lawrence missed two games after contracting the coronavirus.
Smith’s teammate, defender Mac Jones, was third; Florida state defender Kyle Trask was fourth; and Alabama’s Najee Harris was fifth.
Smith said being one of the four recipients of the award “means a lot to me.”