Alabama had a quarterback competition in spring practice and fall camp.
Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, and Tyler Buchner were the main three pushing for the starting job. Milroe, a redshirt sophomore, started against Middle Tennessee State and Texas. He shined versus the Blue Raiders but struggled against the Longhorns.
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Milroe is a confident player, but could we see Nick Saban look at another quarterback against South Florida?
He highlighted Buchner’s progression Monday in his presser.
Buchner, a transfer from Notre Dame, had 13 games of experience as a signal-caller. He arrived in the summer for the Crimson Tide via the NCAA transfer portal. Buchner’s had to learn his way, but Saban likes how he has developed.
“We feel really good about how he’s continued to improve and develop,” Saban said about Buchner.
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“He played well in the last scrimmage. He has done well in practice. We feel good about how he’s gained confidence in what he’s doing, and having a good feeling around the teammates, the receivers, and that type of thing.”
Buchner completed three of five passes for 27 yards and had a rushing touchdown against MTSU. He has experience in Tommy Rees’ offense. The team likes what Milroe offers, but it will be something to watch if Saban starts going more to Buchner.
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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.
