The Alabama Crimson Tide is gearing up for a fresh start at the quarterback position, with sophomore Ty Simpson emerging as the frontrunner to take the reins. This transition comes on the heels of Jalen Milroe‘s decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft after leading the Tide’s offense for the past couple of seasons. While Milroe showcased remarkable physical talent, he faced challenges with accuracy and control that ultimately hindered the team’s offensive efficiency.
What Ty Simpson Brings to the Table
Ty Simpson, hailing from Martin, Tennessee, is poised to elevate the Crimson Tide’s offensive game. Unlike Milroe, who was known for his rushing prowess, Simpson is recognized for his accuracy and ability to distribute the ball effectively downfield. His sophomore season saw him make the most of his opportunities in limited action, completing 14 of 25 passes for 167 yards, along with eight rushing attempts for 44 yards and a touchdown in 2024.
Clint Lamb, an Alabama insider, has expressed optimism about Simpson’s potential. “He throws with accuracy. Ball placement, in my opinion, has been a little spotty at times? Yes, but I think he is way more consistent with ball placement and accuracy than Jalen Milroe,” Lamb noted. This consistency could be a game-changer for the Crimson Tide offense, especially as they seek to improve on their 9-4 record from the previous season.
Adapting to Kalen DeBoer’s Offensive Style
One of the key aspects of Simpson’s game is his suitability for Kalen DeBoer’s offensive scheme. DeBoer’s approach emphasizes short, accurate throws that allow receivers to gain yards after the catch. This style was effectively demonstrated by Michael Penix Jr. during his time at Washington, which ultimately led to Penix being selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Simpson’s ability to execute quick, precise passes could significantly enhance the Tide’s offensive capabilities.
Lamb further elaborated on the shortcomings of Milroe’s passing game, stating, “One of the biggest issues that I personally have with Jalen Milroe is even when the passes were completed, very rarely were they put in a position where the receivers could generate a lot of yardage after the catch.” This is precisely where Simpson could make a difference, transforming the passing game into a more dynamic and effective unit.
Leadership and Development
Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer recently attended the Senior Bowl, where he took the opportunity to praise Ty Simpson’s development. “You certainly appreciate what he’s done,” DeBoer remarked. “Just continue to work on what he can control, and that’s himself. Continue to build relationships to get ready for this chance that he has right in front of him.”
This emphasis on leadership and relationship-building is crucial for Simpson as he prepares to step into a starting role. The quarterback position is not just about throwing the ball; it’s about commanding the huddle and guiding the team. Simpson’s growth in this area will be pivotal as he transitions into this new chapter of his career.
Competition for the Starting Role
While Ty Simpson appears to be the leading candidate for the starting quarterback position, he will face competition from Keelon Russell and Austin Mack. This competition could serve to elevate the performance of all three players, pushing them to refine their skills and stay sharp as the season approaches.
Simpson’s impressive high school pedigree as a 5-star quarterback prospect adds to the intrigue surrounding his potential. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will adapt to the pressures of being the starting quarterback at Alabama, a program with a storied history and high expectations.
Looking Ahead to the Season
As the Crimson Tide prepare for their season opener against Florida State on August 30, all eyes will be on Ty Simpson. The team is determined to bounce back after narrowly missing out on the College Football Playoff in 2024. A strong performance from Simpson could not only solidify his position as the starting quarterback but also propel Alabama back into contention for a playoff spot.
In summary, the Alabama Crimson Tide are entering a new era at the quarterback position with Ty Simpson at the helm. His accuracy, adaptability to Kalen DeBoer’s offensive style, and leadership potential make him an exciting prospect for the upcoming season. With competition for the starting job and a challenging schedule ahead, the stage is set for Simpson to make his mark in college football. Will he rise to the occasion and lead the Tide back to glory? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is palpable.
