Alabama Football: 3 breakout candidates for 2020

No matter who starts at quarterback this season, they have to play well if the Crimson Tide want to return to the playoff. To contend for a national championship in today’s game, you need elite quarterback play.

Both quarterbacks make this list because they both need to play well for the Crimson Tide to get where they want to go. Both quarterbacks offer something different to the offense.

Mac Jones is the veteran who has been part of the program. He knows the playbook and can do what is asked of him. Bryce Young is the freshman phenom who is the next star quarterback at Alabama.

How the quarterback position shakes out depends on what the offensive staff thinks of Young’s progress when the season starts. If they do not think he’s ready, Jones starts with Young potentially taking over at some point in the season.

Jones could play lights out and keep Young on the bench this season and he’ll have to wait his turn next season. It will be interesting to see how long a leash Jones has. None of this happens if Young is lights out during camp and practice, however.

He’s a five-star so that is not outside the realm of possibility. With the skill position talent and veteran offensive line, it might not matter who starts at quarterback.