Let's Talk Bama QBs - '25 Season

[BamaMoon]

Now that "you know who" is gone, let's break down the QB position for the 25 season.

Current QBs on the Roster:
1. Cade Carruth
2. John Cooper
3. Austin Mack
4. Ty Simpson
5. Keelon Russell

I think we can probably rule out Carruth and Cooper so it's a matter of a battle between a towering Austin Mack (6'6", 236 lbs), faithful Ty Simpson and the new shiny toy, hot recruit Keelon Russell.

First, I'll say concerning Russell, if you don't know much about him do yourself a favor and Google and read. Staff thinks he's the best QB in the '25 QB recruiting cycle. He's a guy draft analyst compare to Jayden Daniels. He's built just like him, but I think it's the polished fundamentals he already possesses. This is not a hot take, but he already possesses better pocket presence and footwork than our QB from the last two years. I don't think he comes in and passes two guys who have years of college experience, but he's the kind of freshman who could be an instant star.

Next is Austin Mack. He's now got 2 years in CKD system so he should know the playbook, that was put on the shelf this year to aid the limitations of JM, like the back of his hand. He's huge, as previously mentioned, and seems like the kind of QB that could deliver in the pocket. We haven't seen enough of him to know much about him and there's always the question about the 6 inches between his ears. Seems like a physical freak but does it translate to completions, first downs, TDs and wins because he can execute the CKD system?

And finally, faithful TS. It's amazing he's stuck with the program this long. We know he has a good arm and surprising running skills. Seems like the logical choice, but there's the nagging question of why he couldn't beat out JM the last two years??? I *think* the answer to this question is the LANK/cancer/drama that existed because of some guys including the guy in front of him. So we'll what happens. I'd say he's a shoe-in to start except there's some real talent behind him.

Here's how I'd break it down in terms of odds to start:
TS: 70%
AM: 10%
KR: 20%

 

[bamarebel]

With “you know who” gone let’s begin the new era.

 

[BamaMoon]

With “you know who” gone let’s begin the new era.

View attachment 48300
View attachment 48302

It's a new day!

 

[tusks_n_raider]

Now that "you know who" is gone, let's break down the QB position for the 25 season.

Current QBs on the Roster:
1. Cade Carruth
2. John Cooper
3. Austin Mack
4. Ty Simpson
5. Keelon Russell

I think we can probably rule out Carruth and Cooper so it's a matter of a battle between a towering Austin Mack (6'6", 236 lbs), faithful Ty Simpson and the new shiny toy, hot recruit Keelon Russell.

First, I'll say concerning Russell, if you don't know much about him do yourself a favor and Google and read. Staff thinks he's the best QB in the '25 QB recruiting cycle. He's a guy draft analyst compare to Jayden Daniels. He's built just like him, but I think it's the polished fundamentals he already possesses. This is not a hot take, but he already possesses better pocket presence and footwork than our QB from the last two years. I don't think he comes in and passes two guys who have years of college experience, but he's the kind of freshman who could be an instant star.

Next is Austin Mack. He's now got 2 years in CKD system so he should know the playbook, that was put on the shelf this year to aid the limitations of JM, like the back of his hand. He's huge, as previously mentioned, and seems like the kind of QB that could deliver in the pocket. We haven't seen enough of him to know much about him and there's always the question about the 6 inches between his ears. Seems like a physical freak but does it translate to completions, first downs, TDs and wins because he can execute the CKD system?

And finally, faithful TS. It's amazing he's stuck with the program this long. We know he has a good arm and surprising running skills. Seems like the logical choice, but there's the nagging question of why he couldn't beat out JM the last two years??? I *think* the answer to this question is the LANK/cancer/drama that existed because of some guys including the guy in front of him. So we'll what happens. I'd say he's a shoe-in to start except there's some real talent behind him.

Here's how I'd break it down in terms of odds to start:
TS: 70%
AM: 10%
KR: 20%

I don't trust this staff or the words that come out of CKD's mouth so who knows.

He's been telling both Ty and KR that he sees/wants them to be QB1

I want there to be an actual real and fair competition because that will push them all to get better.

Ty should have an edge by being around for a while and having a head start with some of the playbook and terminology etc.

I like what I have seen of KR but I also think people need to chill over just handing him the job.

Tua waited

Bryce waited

KR can wait too.

 

[Evil Crimson Dragon]

Earn the job..........no free handouts...........Earn it

 

[BamaMoon]

I don't trust this staff or the words that come out of CKD's mouth so who knows.

He's been telling both Ty and KR that he sees/wants them to be QB1

I want there to be an actual real and fair competition because that will push them all to get better.

Ty should have an edge by being around for a while and having a head start with some of the playbook and terminology etc.

I like what I have seen of KR but I also think people need to chill over just handing him the job.

Tua waited

Bryce waited

KR can wait too.

I think Coach can tell them both that and both can be true.

I know you are down on the staff, but I don't think we should fully judge CKD by what happened this year. We know there was behind the scenes problems for two years. Such caused the GOAT to retire. If such is true and it is, I think CKD needs some grace regarding the judgement we give to him under these circumstances.

Fair competition? Yeah, I think we'll finally see that! TS is the leader out of the gate just because he's the oldest. AM knows the playbook and he crazy big and should be able to see the whole field from the pocket.

KR waiting? It's not 2017 or even 2021 anymore. Players make money and it changes everything. Plus, there was legitimate, proven talent in front of Tua and BY. We think we have that with TS, but we really don't know. And if KR just comes in and "gets it" I wouldn't rule out the possibility he plays or even starts. Not likely. But not impossible in this day and age. And I'd go this far. If CKD and staff are not absolutely certain TS is the answer AND if KR shows competence, I wouldn't be upset if we rolled with the freshman, lumps and all. By year end, he's probably playing well. Plus, it would put us in a position of having a QB that could play 3 straight years.

 

[Saban4Ever]

I don't care who the starter will be as long as all of the QB's start learning the real playbook right now. I bet even Ty doesn't know it all since the team never ran Deboer's offense.

It will be interesting to see if we get a QB from the portal and if any transfer in the Spring.

 

[BamaMoon]

I don't care who the starter will be as long as all of the QB's start learning the real playbook right now. I bet even Ty doesn't know it all since the team never ran Deboer's offense.

It will be interesting to see if we get a QB from the portal and if any transfer in the Spring.

JMO, but I'd be pretty shocked if we took a Portal QB.

If we did, TS is gone. So, he'd have to be a superstar and I'm just not sure who that is right now.

 

[81usaf92]

Ty will be the favorite but watching Russell yesterday I think there is a legitimate chance that he or Mack could cut in line.

One thing is for sure… DeBoer will play a guy that can read defenses and run his offense next year.

 

[Cruloc]

I think Coach can tell them both that and both can be true.

I know you are down on the staff, but I don't think we should fully judge CKD by what happened this year. We know there was behind the scenes problems for two years. Such caused the GOAT to retire. If such is true and it is, I think CKD needs some grace regarding the judgement we give to him under these circumstances.

Fair competition? Yeah, I think we'll finally see that! TS is the leader out of the gate just because he's the oldest. AM knows the playbook and he crazy big and should be able to see the whole field from the pocket.

KR waiting? It's not 2017 or even 2021 anymore. Players make money and it changes everything. Plus, there was legitimate, proven talent in front of Tua and BY. We think we have that with TS, but we really don't know. And if KR just comes in and "gets it" I wouldn't rule out the possibility he plays or even starts. Not likely. But not impossible in this day and age. And I'd go this far. If CKD and staff are not absolutely certain TS is the answer AND if KR shows competence, I wouldn't be upset if we rolled with the freshman, lumps and all. By year end, he's probably playing well. Plus, it would put us in a position of having a QB that could play 3 straight years.

Meh, its gonna take some real coaching to make people shelve the fact that he didn't have the team prepared numerous times....he didn't pull Milroe numerous times when Milroe was basically drowning on the field.

And I'll say it....if Ty plays vs Michigan we win that game. I'd even go so far as to say if Ty comes in to start the 3rd quarter, we win that game.

 

[CrimsonBloodn62]

Ty will be the favorite but watching Russell yesterday I think there is a legitimate chance that he or Mack could cut in line.

One thing is for sure… DeBoer will play a guy that can read defenses and run his offense next year.

Thank God! That will be so much more refreshing than watching the same 3 plays over and over.

 

[81usaf92]

Thank God! That will be so much more refreshing than watching the same 3 plays over and over.

look I’m not promising anything in terms of playoffs, 10+ wins, or SECC because it probably will be very bumpy at times but we will look far more competent on offense than what we did this year.

 

[CB4]

Keelon Russell may be the next great one. Then again he may not. We’ve seen a number of “can’t miss” prospects do just that - miss.

I want an open and fair competition among all them. And the best earns the nod. If you can’t separate the three, then IMO the job (at least initially) goes to Ty or Austin. Commitment has to mean something. If “all world” Arch Manning can sit behind Quinn Ewers for two years with only limited spot playing or certain packages, then so can Russell.

I am now way past this notion of the “coronation” of player and handing them the keys to kingdom out of fear they “may transfer” or making promises to keep them. I’m no longer about the guy that may leave. I’m a fan of those that choose to stay.

So let me be clear -if Russell is clearly the best option as a true freshman, so be it. Start him. But if Ty or Austin offers better chances to win, then they get the nod.

 

[CrimsonBloodn62]

look I’m not promising anything in terms of playoffs, 10+ wins, or SECC because it probably will be very bumpy at times but we will look far more competent on offense than what we did this year.

I agree.

 

[tusks_n_raider]

Keelon Russell maybe the next great one. Then again he may not. We’ve seen a number of “can’t miss” prospects do just that - miss.

I want an open and fair competition among all them. And the best earns the nod. If you can’t separate the three, then IMO the job (at least initially) goes to Ty or Austin. Commitment has to mean something. If “all world” Arch Manning can sit behind Quinn Ewers for two years with only limited spot playing or certain packages, then so can Russell.

I am now way past this notion of the “coronation” of player and handing them the keys to kingdom out of fear they “may transfer” or making promises to keep them. I’m no longer about the guy that may leave. I’m a fan of those that choose to stay.

So let me be clear -if Russell is clearly the best option as a true freshman, so be it. Start him. But if Ty or Austin offers better chances to win, then they get the nod.

It's giving me 2020 vibes in a frustrating way.

Mac clearly showed in the final games of 2019 that he had what it took to a Very Good SEC QB.

But everyone was slobbering over Bryce coming in and just wanted to give him the job.

Mac beat Bryce out and then went out and led the GOAT Offense in NCAA History.

I love Bryce and I don't have anything bad to say about him but he was never as good as Tua or Mac.

Now there is obviously a lot more of an unknown factor with Ty because he hasn't even remotely been given playing time as a starter like Mac did before 2020.

But he's taken a similar path of being loyal and working hard behind the scenes and sticking around when QBs all across CFB are portaling in and out of schools.

He deserves a shot and for all we know he might turn out to be a Very Good SEC QB.

 

[CrimsonBloodn62]

It's giving me 2020 vibes in a frustrating way.

Mac clearly showed in the final games of 2019 that he had what it took to a Very Good SEC QB.

But everyone was slobbering over Bryce coming in and just wanted to give him the job.

Mac beat Bryce out and then went out and led the GOAT Offense in NCAA History.

I love Bryce and I don't have anything bad to say about him but he was never as good as Tua or Mac.

Now there is obviously a lot more of an unknown factor with Ty because he hasn't even remotely been given playing time as a starter like Mac did before 2020.

But he's taken a similar path of being loyal and working hard behind the scenes and sticking around when QBs all across CFB and portaling in and out of schools.

He deserves a shot and for all we know he might turn out to be a Very Good SEC QB.

That's just it. For 2 seasons now we have had no clue what our backup QB's can do in live action because Milroe dictated who could play and who couldn't at the QB position. It's going to be some growing pains for sure next season for whoever starts.

 

[BamaMoon]

It would really be great if TS could have 2 GREAT years in teh system and then AM or KR gets 2 or 3 years!

But starting a new, inexperienced QB is going to come with growing pains.

 

[mlh]

I just want to see an honest competition for the starting position. After that, I want to see the backup get meaningful reps during the season so he will be ready to step up and lead the team, if necessary.

 

[Cruloc]

It's giving me 2020 vibes in a frustrating way.

Mac clearly showed in the final games of 2019 that he had what it took to a Very Good SEC QB.

But everyone was slobbering over Bryce coming in and just wanted to give him the job.

Mac beat Bryce out and then went out and led the GOAT Offense in NCAA History.

I love Bryce and I don't have anything bad to say about him but he was never as good as Tua or Mac.

Now there is obviously a lot more of an unknown factor with Ty because he hasn't even remotely been given playing time as a starter like Mac did before 2020.

But he's taken a similar path of being loyal and working hard behind the scenes and sticking around when QBs all across CFB are portaling in and out of schools.

He deserves a shot and for all we know he might turn out to be a Very Good SEC QB.

It took a catastrophic injury for Mac to see real playing time late in 2019. If Tua hadn't been injured, Mac never sees the field that year.

 

[UAH]

Keelon Russell maybe the next great one. Then again he may not. We’ve seen a number of “can’t miss” prospects do just that - miss.

I want an open and fair competition among all them. And the best earns the nod. If you can’t separate the three, then IMO the job (at least initially) goes to Ty or Austin. Commitment has to mean something. If “all world” Arch Manning can sit behind Quinn Ewers for two years with only limited spot playing or certain packages, then so can Russell.

I am now way past this notion of the “coronation” of player and handing them the keys to kingdom out of fear they “may transfer” or making promises to keep them. I’m no longer about the guy that may leave. I’m a fan of those that choose to stay.

So let me be clear -if Russell is clearly the best option as a true freshman, so be it. Start him. But if Ty or Austin offers better chances to win, then they get the nod.

Was it last year at this time or even earlier there was talk of Sayin starting as a Freshman. We all know how that turned out. Is it correct to state that Sayin left in the Spring Portal window and never wore an Alabama jersey. Russell will no doubt be tampered with and receive ungodly offers from now. What about Ty and Mack, what type of offers will they receive?

Milroe absorbed all of the light around the QB position and little is actually known about game performance of other QB's over the last two years. Tough position for a coach to put himself into!