Alabama fans want another year of Mac Jones, but NFL scouts are becoming more interested in him.
He was introduced to the Iron Bowl with a loss in 2019, but the native Floridian and redshirt junior had something prepared for Auburn’s defensive secondary. Jones’ response was leading the Crimson Tide to a 42-13 victory over the Tigers at Bryant-Denny Stadium in the 85th edition of the rivalry game. Earlier in the week, Bo Nix referred to Jones as a ‘game manager’ at quarterback.
RELATED: Steve Sarkisian leads Alabama to victory over Auburn in Nick Saban’s absence
The 6-foot-3, 214-pounder would proceed to toss a career-high five touchdown passes.
In case you didn’t know, Devonta Smith is ridiculously fast. pic.twitter.com/zr53vWef6D
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) November 28, 2020
The Mac-Metchie connection strikes again for Bama. pic.twitter.com/inAPEGGGsG
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) November 28, 2020
This play right here is what has NFL scouts excited about Mac Jones and what makes him a potential top pick in the NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/Fcu945g75J
— Touchdown Alabama (@TDAlabamaMag) November 29, 2020
Jones distributed scores to three different receivers, including two touchdowns to DeVonta Smith. Both of his tosses to the senior from Louisiana stretched the field, as Smith turned in a 66-yard score and a 58-yard house call.
He connected with John Metchie for a pair of touchdowns, and even found Jahleel Billingsley for a 24-yard score.
In spreading the wealth, Jones became the third quarterback in Alabama football history to record five touchdown passes in a single game — joining Tua Tagovailoa and Gary Hollingsworth.
When it comes to the Iron Bowl, he and Tagovailoa are the lone two signal callers to produce five touchdown passes in a game.
Along with helping Smith have his fifth 100-yard performance of the season, twelve of Jones’ 18 completions resulted in either first downs or scores. He completed 18 of 26 passes for 302 yards and orchestrated an offense that totaled 445 yards. Jones guided the Tide to success on third down (six conversions, 10 attempts), while pushing it to average 8.4 yards per play.
This is the seventh straight game where Alabama has scored at least 40 points.
RELATED: Nick Saban yelled at the TV a few times today, just like the fans
Currently, Jones has 23 touchdown passes on the year. With this performance, he should reclaim the top spot in the Heisman Trophy race.
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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.
