Germie Bernard didn’t just step into a role at Alabama, he’s redefining it—emerging as the breakout playmaker the Tide desperately needed this season. 

Last season, Ryan “Hollywood” Williams was the wide receiver that everyone had eyes on. He had been one of the most sought out wide receivers in the country, and people were excited to see what he would be able to do. 

Williams, who was only 17 last year, finished his true freshman season with 864 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. He had a breakout game during Alabama’s 41-34 win over Georgia where he recorded 6 receptions for 177 yards and a touchdown. But after the Georgia game, he got a little quiet. He didn’t record nearly as many receiving yards, but still had impactful moments. 

But there was a player who began to stand out after the Georgia game, and who became the go to guy in dire situations: Germie Bernard.

Sure, Bernard only finished the season last year with two touchdowns, but the stat that stands out the most is his 794 receiving yards. Only 70 yards shy of Williams. Sure, Williams had more big moments and touchdowns, but Bernard's ability to make crucial plays when his team needed him most is what made him stand out. And it’s something he’s still doing this season. 

Most people forget that Bernard followed DeBoer from Washington. And those same people don’t realize that Bernard had the same role for the Huskies. And before that, for Michigan State.

Bernard has always been a big team guy. He cared about excellence. He cares about winning. He’ll do whatever it takes. Even if that means not being the “big name” on the field, but instead, being the big playmaker instead. 

Bernard has started this season in incredible fashion. In just two games, he already has accumulated 213 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Even in the Crimson Tide’s loss to Florida State, Germie Bernard gave it all he had. He made big plays. Including a 37-yard reception.

He might not have scored a touchdown that game, but every single yard of his 146 receiving yards were hard fought that game. He was one of the only players on the field for Alabama in game one that played with passion, excellence, and passion. You could tell he was giving it his all. 

On Saturday against ULM, Bernard once again, showed the nation that he’s the leader Alabama needs. He finished the game with 67 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He played with such grit, passion, and energy. It was incredible to witness. He may just be the key to Alabama’s offensive success this season.

Time will tell. But if his start so far this season any indication, this is only the beginning of what could be a special chapter in Alabama football.

Bernard’s breakout isn’t just a story about a receiver making plays—it’s about a player reshaping expectations. Alabama’s wide receiver room may be young, but with Bernard leading the charge, the Tide’s passing game feels alive again.

In a season filled with questions about identity, leadership, and offensive firepower, Germie Bernard is answering them one catch at a time.