Alabama’s quarterback competition took an entertaining turn before Nick Saban’s second presser of spring practice.
Last week, a video clip hit social media that Crimson Tide fans in a frenzy.
A quarterback threw a perfect touchdown pass to wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks, despite perfect coverage from cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. Tide fans across the landscape tried to zero in on who tossed the ball. After finding out it was Jalen Milroe, speculation started on can the redshirt sophomore hold off Ty Simpson and earn the starting job. The native Texan did himself a huge favor as his viral touchdown in practice has people discussing him positively as a passer. We all know the incredible athlete he is, but if he consistently places passes as he did to Brooks, Milroe will be the best quarterback in the SEC this fall.
An absolute dime from Jalen Milroe to Ja’Corey Brooks 🤯
(🎥 via @UA_Athletics) pic.twitter.com/IW5Yauo6r5
— Touchdown Alabama (@TDAlabamaMag) March 30, 2023
He received much criticism for his performance against Texas A&M in 2022. Milroe started in place of an injured Bryce Young, helping the Tide to a 24-20 victory over the Aggies at Bryant-Denny Stadium. It was his first career start, and he did some positive things. Milroe accounted for three touchdowns, but some only recognized his two lost fumbles and an interception.
RELATED: Jalen Milroe presses Alabama social media account for credit on stellar throw
His mechanics as a passer have been criticized, but it appears that Milroe has worked on it.
Mac Jones, a former Alabama signal-caller, had to replace an injured Tua Tagovailoa in 2019. People wondered if Jones was truly the one for the Tide, especially after tossing two pick-sixes in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn. He had four touchdown passes and allowed Alabama an opportunity to win the game, but most focused on his turnovers. Jones learned from the experience and guided the Tide to an undefeated College Football Playoff National Championship in 2020 as a starter.
Milroe brings the same potential. Backup quarterbacks have not looked great for Alabama when given limited reps.
One cannot expect to excel when one does not have a chance to build chemistry with players in games.
Milroe can take a huge leap in the fall because of the added reps he is getting in spring practice and will have in preseason camp. He has everyone’s attention after the viral touchdown passes; however, Milroe needs to capitalize on it.
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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.
