No one knows when Alabama football will make its offensive and defensive coordinator hires official, but Nick Saban is actively looking to replace Bill O’Brien and Pete Golding.
As we focus on the offense, we have broken down primary candidates and offensive analysts Saban could promote from within for the offensive play-caller role. A dark horse name – via sources – has been communicated to Touchdown Alabama as a potential candidate if he is inquired about the job. As a native Floridian, this name led the Crimson Tide to a Southeastern Conference Championship over Florida in 1999 and a berth in the 2000 FexEd Orange Bowl.
RELATED: Former Alabama QB defends Bill O’Brien’s tenure as the Tide’s offensive coordinator
Andrew Zow had his share of ups and downs as an Alabama quarterback under Mike DuBose and Dennis Franchione, but he kept his confidence. He remains seventh all-time in school history for career passing yards (5,983) from 1998 to 2001.
Zow is tied for ninth all-time in passing touchdowns (35), sharing the mark with Mike Shula. Zow’s arm talent and athleticism created opportunities for Blake Sims, Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa, and Bryce Young to come to Alabama and succeed as quarterbacks. Since graduating from the University of Alabama, Zow has coached at a few high schools. Sources tell TDA he is interested in joining Saban’s staff as an offensive coordinator. Zow played during a time when Alabama football was not popular.
The guys wanted to be the best, but people were not discussing the Crimson Tide then like they are now.
Zow knows the standard, expectations, and what is needed to execute at the highest level. He led the Tide to two victories over Florida in the 1999 season when Steve Spurrier had the Gators as the apex of the SEC. If he is considered, Zow could elevate Jalen Milroe into a complete quarterback. His story of hard work, perseverance, and responsibility would captivate today’s players.
Per sources, Zow has not been contacted for the position, but he is someone who should be considered for a staff role at Alabama.
He is currently a senior offensive analyst at Clemson under Dabo Swinney.
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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.
