Nick Saban now has a player for Alabama football who is squarely in the Heisman Trophy conversation.
Jalen Milroe, the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, has played his way into the running for the coveted bronze award for his performances in back-to-back weeks. He became the first signal-caller in Alabama history to post four rushing touchdowns in a game during the Tide’s 42-28 victory over LSU. The sophomore followed his outing with an incredible showing in Saturday’s matchup on the road against Kentucky. He tied former Tide quarterbacks, Tua Tagovailoa and Bryce Young, for the most touchdowns for the most touchdowns responsible for in a game (six). Milroe had three passing touchdowns and three rushing scores versus the Wildcats in a 49-21 victory for the Tide. He propelled Alabama to a SEC Western Division title with his play.
RELATED: Jalen Milroe leads Alabama to SEC West title with a dominant win over Kentucky
Milroe has accounted for 10 touchdowns in back-to-back weeks.
He is playing his best football and has grown in confidence since the Ole Miss game.
No one has taken control of the Heisman race, despite Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Bo Nix, and Michael Penix Jr. being great candidates. Milroe makes a case to be the leader in the race. He entered the Kentucky game with 22 total touchdowns, but he now has 28 touchdowns to six interceptions. The Heisman Committee loves players with great stories, and Milroe has the best story of anyone. He had the worst odds to win the starting job for Alabama at +300, suffered a loss to Texas in week two, and got benched for Tyler Buchner in the South Florida game. Milroe overcame the adversity and is playing very well.
RELATED: Alabama fans react to Jalen Milroe’s electric first half versus Kentucky
Milroe for Heisman is real, and he’s played himself into the discussion.
Click here to follow the Bama Elite Podcast
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
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.