As the Alabama Crimson Tide gears up for their highly anticipated matchup with Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl, one of the biggest storylines heading into the game is the quarterback situation. With both Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson vying for the starting role, questions have been raised about which quarterback should play more and help lead the Tide to victory in what could be a defining moment for Alabama football. The Bama247 staff has analyzed the situation, breaking down the strengths, weaknesses, and implications of the two quarterbacks ahead of the bowl game.
Throughout the 2023 season, Alabama head coach Nick Saban has rotated between Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson, each bringing different strengths to the table. Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, has impressed with his ability to make plays with his legs. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, including several big runs and game-changing moments. However, his inconsistency as a passer has raised concerns, especially in high-pressure situations. Meanwhile, Simpson, a more traditional pocket passer, has displayed excellent mechanics and the ability to read defenses, though he has been less dynamic when it comes to creating plays on the move.
As Alabama enters the ReliaQuest Bowl, the question looms large: Which quarterback gives the Tide the best chance to win? The Bama247 staff has weighed in on the factors that could determine which quarterback should see more playing time.
Milroe’s athleticism is undeniable. He’s one of the most explosive quarterbacks in college football, capable of taking over a game with his legs. Throughout the season, Milroe has racked up impressive rushing yards, often turning broken plays into big gains. Against teams with strong defenses, his ability to extend plays and create something out of nothing has been invaluable to Alabama’s offense.
However, Milroe’s passing ability has been inconsistent. While he’s capable of making deep throws, his accuracy and decision-making have sometimes been called into question. In the Tide’s biggest games, including matchups against SEC rivals, Milroe has struggled to consistently deliver the ball on target. The staff believes that while his legs may be an asset, Alabama’s success in the ReliaQuest Bowl may depend on Milroe’s ability to make precise throws and avoid costly mistakes.
On the other hand, Simpson has shown that he can make accurate throws from the pocket, which could be critical in a matchup against a talented Michigan defense. Simpson’s ability to read defenses and deliver the ball with precision makes him a reliable option when the offense needs to move the chains and control the tempo. He’s also shown a solid grasp of Alabama’s playbook, making quick decisions and maintaining a calm demeanor in the pocket.
While Simpson lacks Milroe’s mobility, he does offer the potential for a more balanced and consistent passing game. With Michigan’s defense likely focusing on stopping the run and pressuring Alabama’s quarterback, Simpson’s quick release and ability to manage the pocket could be a valuable asset.
As the game approaches, both quarterbacks will need to show they can perform under the bright lights of a postseason showdown. For Alabama to succeed in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the Bama247 staff believes the key will be balance. Both Milroe and Simpson have unique strengths, and each quarterback’s skill set can contribute to different aspects of the game. Milroe’s ability to make plays with his legs could be crucial against a Michigan defense that may look to shut down Alabama’s rushing attack. On the other hand, Simpson’s precision and poise in the pocket could help Alabama sustain drives and find success through the air.
The Bama247 staff notes that Milroe’s dual-threat ability could be the deciding factor in a game against Michigan. With the Wolverines likely focusing on Alabama’s running backs and attempting to stop the Tide’s ground game, Milroe’s ability to extend plays and turn broken pocket situations into positive yardage could give Alabama the edge. Additionally, if Milroe can minimize his mistakes and show more consistency as a passer, he has the potential to put Alabama in a position to win.
Simpson’s calm demeanor and ability to execute a traditional passing game make him an ideal candidate for a longer stint against Michigan’s defense. If Alabama’s offensive line can provide solid protection, Simpson’s ability to read defenses and make accurate throws could allow the Tide to control the tempo and maintain offensive balance. His understanding of Alabama’s playbook and his accuracy in the passing game make him a reliable option in a game where execution will be key.
The Bama247 staff agrees that, while both quarterbacks have their advantages, Alabama should look to implement a balanced approach in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Each quarterback brings something different to the table, and by using both Milroe’s playmaking ability and Simpson’s poise in the pocket, Alabama can keep Michigan’s defense guessing and create opportunities in both the running and passing games.
Ultimately, the quarterback who performs the best under pressure, minimizes mistakes, and takes control of the game will be the one who leads Alabama to victory. As Alabama heads into the ReliaQuest Bowl with everything to play for, the quarterback situation remains one of the most critical decisions of the season.