Hollywood Smothers just flipped his commitment from Alabama to Texas in a shocking move. The former NC State running back made his choice after visiting Austin over the weekend. This represents a major recruiting victory for the Longhorns and a significant blow to Alabama’s transfer portal class.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Timeline: Smothers committed to Alabama on January 5, flipped to Texas on January 11
- Stats: 1,128 all-purpose yards and 7 touchdowns in 2025 for NC State
- Achievement: First-Team All-ACC running back leading the conference in rushing yards per game
- Impact: Becomes Texas’s 13th transfer commitment and pairs with other portal acquisitions
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Hollywood Smothers announced his commitment to Alabama just six days ago on January 5. The NC State transfer appeared to be a done deal for the Crimson Tide’s struggling running game. Coach Kalen DeBoer seemed to have filled a critical need at a position where Alabama struggled significantly in 2025.
The shift came after Texas reportedly pursued an aggressive recruitment push for the dynamic back. Smothers visited Austin over the weekend, and the experience was enough to change everything. Hayes Fawcett of On3 broke the news that the Wolfpack standout had flipped to the Longhorns on Sunday, January 11.
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Smothers led the ACC in average rushing yards per game during the 2025 season. The sophomore recorded 939 rushing yards on 160 carries, plus 189 receiving yards for a combined 1,128 all-purpose yards. He scored 7 total touchdowns, showcasing his ability in the running game and as a pass-catcher.
As a First-Team All-ACC selection, Smothers proved he could perform at an elite level in the ACC. His production created a template for what he could deliver at either Alabama or Texas. The running back’s versatility and consistency made him a valuable commodity in the 2026 portal.
Texas vs. Alabama, A Tale of Two Programs Fighting for Talent
| Aspect | Alabama | Texas |
| Commitment Date | January 5, 2026 | January 11, 2026 |
| Current Transfer Pledges | Lost major addition | 13th transfer commit |
| Offensive Strength | Struggling ground game | Building superteam |
| Running Back Depth | Needs reinforcement | Elite duo forming |
“Texas lands the number one running back in the portal, pairing with another elite offensive weapon.”
— College Football Transfer Analysts
What This Flip Means for Steve Sarkisian’s Offensive Arsenal
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian just landed one of the most dominant backs in college football. Smothers joins a Longhorns team that also added Cam Coleman, a premier wide receiver from the transfer portal. The combination of an elite running back and elite receiver creates a powerful offensive foundation.
Sarkisian’s offense now features dynamic weapons that should operate at an elevated level. Smothers can feature in multiple roles, catching passes out of the backfield and running between the tackles with power. This versatility makes Texas’s offensive scheme even more dangerous heading into 2026.
Does Alabama Have Time to Find a Replacement Running Back in the Portal?
Alabama entered 2026 needing significant help at running back after a disappointing season. Smothers appeared to solve that problem. Now, coach DeBoer faces pressure to locate an alternative option before elite prospects sign elsewhere or declare for the NFL Draft.
Available options narrow as the transfer window progresses. The Crimson Tide still has time but must act swiftly to identify and land a quality replacement. Missing out on Smothers stings particularly hard since Alabama had already sealed what looked like a finished deal just days earlier.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.