Alabama football has a legitimate quarterback competition for the first time since 2014.
People were excited about Blake Sims and Jacob Coker as the competition went through fall camp.
RELATED: Looking back at Jalen Milroe as a recruit
Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson look to add the same level of excitement.
Both players are highly talented, but they possess different skill sets. Milroe, a native of Katy, Texas, came in the Crimson Tide’s 2021 class as a four-star from Tompkins High School. Simspon, who hails from Martin, Tenn., arrived in Alabama’s 2022 class as a five-star from Westview High School. Milroe played in two marquee Southeastern Conference games in 2022, including his first career start against Texas A&M. He had three turnovers, but Milroe tossed three touchdowns in a 24-20 victory for the Tide.
Todd McVey, Milroe’s high school head coach, joined In My Own Words on Wednesday to break down Milroe’s mindset heading into spring practice next week for Alabama. Milroe led Tompkins to a 9-0 record in 2020 with 1,136 passing yards and 13 touchdown passes. He collected 259 rushing yards and added four more scores during the COVID season.
*Coach Todd McVey talks Jalen Milroe in spring QB battle at the 27:42 mark
“He has grown up a lot in these last two years,” McVey said about Milroe.
“He was behind a great starting quarterback in Bryce Young, and I think all those things have been enhanced with being there. He has gotten the reps and learning from watching has been good for him. I think that has helped Jay, and when I talk to him, his maturity level is locked in. He wants to do the right things, and he’s ready for the battle this spring.”
RELATED: Looking back at Ty Simpson as a recruit
McVey said Milroe has to be a ‘good decision maker’ to win the Alabama job.
“You have to make good decisions and take what the defense gives you,” McVey said.
“You have to be consistent in your reads, and sometimes punting the ball is a good play. Don’t give them the ball back and control the game. As far as the weight room, he looks like a greek god. He looks great. He’s talked to me about how much he’s worked mentally on the game. Like any coach, we just want our quarterbacks to make good decisions and protect the football.”
McVey said the fumbles Milroe had against Texas A&M was a good experience for him.
“He knows to protect the ball, what’s the best teacher? Experience,” he said. “Milroe has that now. He’s been in these games, and I am excited to watch him compete. I think he’ll do a good job with his decision-making in the spring.”
Spring football returns next week.
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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.
