Alabama Crimson Tide

Saban attempting to lower expectations for freshman WR Ridley

Published Aug. 13, 2015 4:16 p.m. ET

foxsports

The hype surrounding five-star receiver prospect Calvin Ridley is understandable. Ridley was regarded as the top ranked receiver prospect in the nation in 2015, according to 247Sports, and comes to the Tide at the perfect time to make an immediate impact, as the team is currently searching for their best options on the perimeter.

That being said, Nick Saban cautions against anointing any first year player until they've proven themselves at the higher level of competition they encounter in college.

"I wouldn't make an assessment like that for any freshman," Saban said according to AL.com. "I don't really think it's fair to any freshman. The guy hadn't even played yet. I think the guy's got a lot of ability. Hopefully we can help him develop the confidence and knowledge and experience at his position so that he can play and contribute this year. But I wouldn't put that kind of expectation on any young player."

Saban's doing the right thing by attempting to protect his young receiver facing a mountain of expectations in Tuscaloosa this season. It's hard to blame Alabama fans though. One look at Ridley's highlights and you'll see why the hype is real: