Bengals’ backup quarterback AJ McCarron performed well in Cincinnati’s annual mock game Saturday at Paul Brown Stadium. The former Alabama standout is starting to prove that he can hold his own in the National Football League.

McCarron, who was selected in the fifth round of 2014 NFL Draft, missed his entire rookie season (shoulder). He got a chance to run the first-team offense Saturday.

According to Laurel Pfahler of Bellville News-Democrat, McCarron was accurate with the football and led an 11-play, 75-yard drive that resulted in a 24-yard touchdown pass to former West Virginia wide receiver Mario Alford. His second offensive series ended with a field goal. McCarron finished the day 7 of 9 passing for 76 yards and a touchdown.

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.

Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.