He was so close.
Alabama head coach Nick Saban was so close to ending Wednesday’s presser without giving a look of frustration toward a question; however, it was not meant to be. The final thought directed to him was on the possible transfer of backup quarterback, Jalen Hurts and has the matter been discussed between he and Hurts.
Since clearing the air back in August on him not leaving the program, the junior from Texas has made tremendous improvement as a player.
Under the guidance of Dan Enos, the Crimson Tide’s first-year quarterbacks’ coach has developed Hurts into being a more effective passer. His reads have been sharper and in moments where he’s come in for Tua Tagovailoa, his delivery of the ball has been on time.
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While some signal callers – including Kelly Bryant – chose to use the redshirt/graduate transfer rule and go elsewhere, Hurts proved his loyalty to Alabama fans by playing in the fifth game of the season against Louisiana.
He would then experience overwhelming support in the following weeks as chants of “Jalen! Jalen!” rocked Bryant-Denny Stadium upon him taking the field, despite trying to recover from ankle surgery.
He has accounted for seven touchdown passes this season and is tied with Tagovailoa and former Tide star John Parker for second all-time in scoring passes (47) for a career in school history, but thoughts of him leaving still loom large.
Saban said no one has brought up transferring in a conversation.
“We are all focused on this game,” he said.
“I think Jalen is focused on this game, I am focused on this game and I don’t think we will be thinking on that until we finish playing. Jalen has been a real positive influence on the team this year. He has handled this situation as professionally as anyone could ever expect anyone to. He has embraced the role that he has and has improved because of it. I think whatever happens in the future is going to benefit him.”
Two things that are certain for Tide fans is Hurts wants another national championship and he has shown that two guys can co-exists at quarterback for Alabama. He and the rest of the team will battle Georgia on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a conference championship.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
