Alabama's DeVonta Smith Focused on CFP Final vs. Ohio State After Heisman Win

Winning the Heisman Trophy isn't diverting DeVonta Smith's focus away from the ultimate goal this season.

"Last night was a great feeling," Smith told reporters of collecting college football's biggest individual honor. "It was just a blessing to be in that situation with (quarterback Mac Jones and coach Nick Saban). But now that's in the past, and now it's on to Ohio State."

Lifting the Heisman can be a double-edged sword for a player ahead of his bowl game. Traveling to New York City for the ceremony and making the rounds for public appearances often means losing some preparation time.

That won't be a problem for Smith since this year's event was held remotely amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Smith and Jones were in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for ESPN's broadcast.

The senior pass-catcher will be a big part of the Crimson Tide's offensive game plan.

His Heisman win is a testament to his performance since he was the first receiver since Desmond Howard in 1991 to top the balloting. He has 105 receptions for 1,641 yards and 20 touchdowns through 12 games. Three of those scores came in Alabama's Rose Bowl win over Notre Dame.

Ohio State will probably look to Shaun Wade to shadow Smith. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Wade as the No. 4 cornerback in the 2021 draft class.

"I'm just looking forward to my last game," Smith said. "I'm only guaranteed this last one, so I'm looking forward to getting to play against him."