I think about this qb competition way more than I should, probably to the detriment of my mental health. It’s so obvious to everyone that Tua is the better option by far, it’s not close. He should already be the starter as far as I’m concerned. Then why don’t I trust the best coach in college football, maybe the best in the history of the game to make the right choice? I guess it’s because I think CNS likes to win with a great defense and a serviceable conservative offense and Jalen fits that mold. Add in that CNS may be overly loyal to the point of making a mistake. I think its very possible Jalen starts and until we get in real trouble he may stay in.
In reading articles about Tua, I think he’s had professional qb coaching quite a bit from his early years and thru high school. He has a ton of natural ability but has also worked very hard to achieve the level of play he’s capable of. If Jalen had gotten some professional coaching over the summer, we could at least say he’s given it his best, but that didn’t happen.
Tua and his family (and the team) trusted what has repeatedly been said about “best player starts”, “win the team” etc., and they’ve remained relatively quiet just as Coach likes, not so for Jalen and family. If Tua doesn’t start against Louisville, there will be criticism and questioning from every corner and rightfully so. And there are plenty of potential negatives for the team, including possibly losing what I think may be the best qb to come to UA since the Namath and Stabler days. I feel sure Tua has won the team and we all know he’s not just the best, but likely a rare talent.
I’ve never really liked the qb competition we see every year or so. If a starter doesn’t perform whether in practice or during the season he can always be pulled and replaced. Having a known starter, I think can help gel the team and give reps where they are needed the most. I’m sure plenty disagree. Lastly, there’s another factor that may or may not play-in. If I’m in a competition I only want to start if I’m really the best choice. If someone is obviously much better and more talented than me, I’m embarrassed if chosen and want to know why. If Jalen starts, it will be with him and everyone else knowing he is not the best choice, that can’t be good for the team. I hope I can breathe a big sigh of relief soon when Tua starts.