How ‘Seinfeld’ helps Ty Simpson prepare for games

Dec 6, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) looks to pass during the fourth quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2025 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Ty Simpson’s pregame soundtrack is what you would expect from a 22-year-old from Martin, Tennessee. 

“I listen to country music every time before a game,” the Alabama starting quarterback said when asked about his pregame routine during a Monday press conference. “So, whether it’s Morgan Wallen, Riley Green, Luke Combs, it gets me in the mode. I feel back at home.” 

While those artists aren’t surprising, Simpson revealed an unexpected twist while continuing his answer. 

“A game like this, whether it’s a pre-game meal or in the hotel room, I’ll watch Seinfeld,” Simpson said. “It gets me in a happy mood. You know, sitcom, stupid funny.”

While a classic, Seinfiled is a bit before Simpson’s time. The ’90s aired from 1989-1998, spanning 180 episodes. 

The show starred Jerry Seinfeld in a fictionalized version of himself while focusing on the comedian as well as his best friend George Costanza (played by Jason Alexander), former girlfriend Elaine Benes (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and neighbor Cosmo Kramer (played by Michael Richards)

“Kramer’s my favorite Seinfeld character,” Simpson said when asked Monday. “But the little beef of Newman [a character] and Jerry, that gets me fired up. So anytime I get an episode like that, I know it’s going to be a good day.” 

Simpson seems to be in good spirits heading into No. 9 Alabama’s first-round playoff game at No. 8 Oklahoma on Friday. The starting quarterback also claims to be in good health despite speculation of an injury during a month-long slump. 

Simpson completed 19 of 39 passes (48.7%) for 212 yards and a touchdown with an interception against Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. His 97.7 quarterback rating against the Bulldogs marked the fifth straight game his rating has dropped. 

“I’m great,” Simpson said. “I’m excited. It’s a great opportunity to play in the College Football Playoff. At this point in the season, I don’t know a team who is healthy at all. You know, fire me up. I’m ready to go.” 

No. 9 Alabama will travel to No. 8 Oklahoma for a 7 p.m. CT kickoff on Friday in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The game will be televised on ABC and ESPN.