The top five Alabama football performances in Week 16 of the NFL

It was a momentous week in the NFL for former Alabama football players, with several milestones achieved. None were more significant than the extension of the Crimson Tide’s NFL touchdown streak to an astounding 100 weeks. This incredible feat highlights the remarkable talent pipeline Alabama has cultivated under Nick Saban’s leadership. Let’s dive into the highlights and celebrate the top performances from Week 16.

A Historic Milestone

Week 16 of the NFL season was nothing short of historic for Alabama football. The Crimson Tide’s NFL touchdown streak, a remarkable run that has now reached triple digits, demonstrates the sustained success of former Alabama players in the league. For 100 consecutive weeks, at least one former Crimson Tide player has scored a touchdown in an NFL game—a testament to the program’s excellence.

For fans who endured the DuBose, Franchione, and Shula coaching eras, this level of NFL dominance might feel surreal. Nick Saban has elevated Alabama football to unparalleled heights, including producing an unmatched level of talent that consistently thrives at the professional level. This week’s achievements further solidify Alabama’s reputation as a breeding ground for NFL stars.

Honorable Mentions

While narrowing down the top performances of the week, several players earned honorable mentions for their impressive contributions:

• Jordan Battle and Dallas Turner both intercepted passes, with Turner’s being his first career interception.
• Josh Jacobs showcased his versatility with 107 total yards and a touchdown for the Packers on Monday night.
• Calvin Ridley hauled in a touchdown and recorded 78 receiving yards in Tennessee’s loss.
• Will Reichard continued his streak of perfection as Minnesota’s kicker.
• Tua Tagovailoa reached a significant milestone, throwing his 100th career touchdown pass to keep the Dolphins’ playoff hopes alive.

These players narrowly missed making the top five list but deserve recognition for their outstanding performances. Now, let’s take a closer look at the standout stars of Week 16.

Top 5 Alabama Football Performers in Week 16

5. Jarran Reed

Jarran Reed, a seasoned NFL veteran, continues to make his presence felt on the field. After spending his first five seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, followed by stints in Kansas City and Green Bay, Reed returned to Seattle and remains a disruptive force in the middle of the defense.

In Sunday’s narrow three-point loss to the Vikings, Reed recorded four tackles, two quarterback hits, a sack, and a forced fumble. Even in his ninth NFL season, Reed proves he can still deliver impactful plays for his team.

4. Derrick Henry

Although Derrick Henry didn’t find the end zone in Baltimore’s win over Pittsburgh, his performance was nothing short of historic. Henry notched his 20th career game with 150 or more rushing yards, running for 162 yards on 24 carries and adding 27 receiving yards on two receptions.

Henry joined an elite group as only the fifth player in NFL history to surpass 1,500 rushing yards in four or more seasons. The others in this exclusive club are Barry Sanders (five times), Walter Payton, Eric Dickerson, and Edgerrin James. Henry’s consistency and dominance solidify his place among the game’s all-time greats.

Additionally, Henry is on pace to challenge records held by players aged 30 and over. The last player in this age group to rush for 1,500+ yards was Tiki Barber in 2006. Barber’s record of 1,860 rushing yards in 2005 is within striking distance for Henry, who remains a force to be reckoned with.

3. Bryce Young

Bryce Young continues to showcase why he was the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite early struggles this season, including being benched after two games, Young has regained his form and silenced critics with his recent performances.

In Sunday’s thrilling overtime win over the Cardinals, Young was the NFL’s highest-rated passer of the week. He completed 17 of 26 passes for 158 yards and two touchdowns while adding 68 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground. Young’s stats could have been even more impressive with stronger support from his receiving corps. His resurgence has transformed him from a potential afterthought to the franchise quarterback the Panthers envisioned when they drafted him.

2. Marlon Humphrey

Marlon Humphrey stole the spotlight in the Ravens’ victory over the Steelers, notching his first career pick-six. While many expected Derrick Henry or Najee Harris to extend the touchdown streak in this matchup, it was Humphrey who delivered the game-changing play.

The Ravens’ win keeps them firmly in contention in the AFC North, now tied with the Steelers at 10-5. Humphrey’s interception was his sixth of the season, tying him for third in the NFL. His stellar performance this year has positioned him as a strong candidate for All-Pro honors, highlighting his critical role in Baltimore’s success.

1. The Detroit Lions Trio

At the top of the list are three Alabama standouts who played pivotal roles in the Detroit Lions’ dominant win over the Bears. Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Brian Branch each delivered standout performances as the Lions set a franchise record with their 13th win of the season.

• Jameson Williams: Williams had a breakout game, recording five receptions for 143 yards and a touchdown. He is now just 110 yards shy of his first 1,000-yard season, a milestone within reach as the Lions push for playoff positioning.
• Jahmyr Gibbs: With David Montgomery sidelined, Gibbs carried the load for the Lions, rushing 23 times for 109 yards and a touchdown while adding 45 receiving yards on four catches. Gibbs’ 1,156 rushing yards place him seventh in the NFL, highlighting his impressive rookie campaign.
• Brian Branch: In just his second season, Branch continues to solidify his reputation as one of the league’s top safeties. Against the Bears, he tallied 12 tackles, one tackle for loss, one quarterback hit, and one pass deflection. His versatility and playmaking ability make him a cornerstone of Detroit’s defense.

The Lions’ trio exemplifies the depth of talent Alabama has sent to the NFL. With the team tied with the Vikings for the NFC North title and the top seed, Detroit will rely heavily on these players as they aim to secure the division and home-field advantage in the playoffs.

A Legacy of Excellence

The achievements of former Alabama players in Week 16 underscore the program’s unparalleled legacy of excellence. Nick Saban’s impact on Tuscaloosa extends far beyond college football, as his players continue to shine on the NFL stage. From veteran leaders like Derrick Henry and Jarran Reed to rising stars like Bryce Young and the Detroit trio, Alabama’s influence is felt across the league.

As the season progresses, the Crimson Tide’s NFL touchdown streak will remain a point of pride for Alabama fans and a symbol of the program’s sustained success. With so many talented players making their mark in the NFL, the future looks bright for Alabama football and its alumni.