Alabama football has a quarterback problem, but why?

The issues might start with the quarterback, but they don’t end there

In addition to being spoiled by elite quarterback play, Alabama football has had an unparalleled run of skill position players. They’ve been privileged at wide receiver with players like Calvin Ridley, Henry Ruggs, Jaylen Waddle, and De’Vonta Smith. Alabama has been equally elite at running back during this run with the likes of Derrick Henry and Najee Harris.

These last two seasons, however, there have been issues with wide receivers getting separated from defenders. Fans and writers want to know where the next Amari Cooper or Julio Jones is in the receiver room. The offensive line has not been elite in some time, and many, with a watchful eye, acknowledged how many issues Bryce Young covered last year.

That said, the quarterback touches the football every play and has more influence over the game than any player on the field. Talent isn’t the issue. Jalen Milroe was a  four-star and top-100 recruit; Ty Simpson was a five-star and top-50 recruit. Even Tyler Buchner was a four-star and top-100 recruit when Notre Dame signed him.

So, why aren’t any of these quarterbacks ready to play?

The Crimson Tide have had five offensive coordinators since 2015. None of them have stayed more than two seasons. Tommy Rees, who Saban hired from Notre Dame, was not Saban’s first choice. Washington Huskies’ offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb was the top choice, but he returned to Seattle.