Is it too early to say Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa part two from the 2017 season?
That was the vibe given off by Mac Jones and Bryce Young in Alabama’s second scrimmage.
Both quarterbacks commanded the offense and equally showcased the ability to play winning football. While most collegiate programs struggle to find one signal caller, the Crimson Tide has two and its fans should be very excited.
According to respectable sources, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine was told both quarterbacks led at least one long touchdown drive.
Jones, a redshirt junior, dominated fall camp.
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He threw three touchdowns in the first scrimmage and executed perfectly in the game-like practice, prior to the final exhibition over the weekend. Despite not having spring practice and missing the first scrimmage, Young responded with a strong showing to his own credit. The talented five-star from California grabbed Nick Saban’s attention and displayed his skill set.
9/9/20 MFB Practice
Bryce Young
Photo by Kent Gidley
9/9/20 MFB Practice
Bryce Young
Photo by Kent Gidley
Coach Saban was proud of the offense, but he saved his praise for the quarterback room.
“Both quarterbacks played well today,” Saban said of Jones and Young. “They were very good, very efficient and had good completion percentages. They threw for some big plays, made some explosive plays, and made some explosive plays in special situations. The offense was really good on third down, and that goes back to the quarterback and guys getting open.”
Paul Tyson even had a scoring drive, per sources, but Jones has firmly shown he needs to start.
He saw action in 12 games last year, including four starts. The 6-foot-3, 214-pounder played well versus Arkansas and Michigan and regardless of a loss to Auburn, he threw for 335 yards with four touchdowns.
Jones put the Crimson Tide in every situation to defeat the Tigers.
He has what it takes to hold down the fort and win a national championship, but Young’s performance will grant him playing time.
Should there be a moment where Jones hits a rough patch, Saban will have a true freshman prepared to go.
Overall, Alabama has a great quarterback room.
No one talks enough about Tyson; however, the redshirt freshman has grown ‘significantly’ per Saban and can play.
With fall practice in the books, the Tide now turns its attention to preparing for Missouri.
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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.
