Alabama Football: Breaking down the quarterback battle entering 2018
By Shane Lunnen
Who is the starting quarterback?
Alabama’s quarterback competition is unique compared to others across college football. Both Hurts and Tagovailoa have meaningful playing time in some of the biggest games. It’s not very often where a two-year starter might be replaced by a guy that has not made a start since high school.
It will be interesting to keep an eye on how the new offensive coaching staff will factor into the decision. Alabama has another staff change with their fourth grouping of offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coaches in three years. New offensive coordinator Mike Locksley runs a mix of pro and spread formations which would play to the strengths of both quarterbacks. More run oriented if it is Hurts and more pass happy if Tagovailoa.
Another wrinkle is what happens to the loser of the competition. Hurts’ father caused quite the stir this past spring when he stated his son would be a starting quarterback whether at Alabama or at another school.
It is awfully late in the process to transfer now as a junior but it depends on what Hurts wants. He does not seem like the type of guy who wants to ride the bench, especially after being the main guy for two seasons. It remains to be seen if he would accept another role on the team, at wide receiver or running back. If Tagovailoa loses out, look for him to transfer after the season. He has too much talent to ride the bench behind Hurts.
Ultimately this is Tagovailoa’s spot to lose. He has a ton of upside, has the better arm and there would not be much drop off in his rushing ability. Tagovailoa injured his throwing hand this past spring, opening the door for Hurts, but he could not take advantage. He showed the same inconsistencies in his passing game that hindered him in the second part of last year. Tagovailoa will make a great starting quarterback as the Tide look to defend their national title.