Alabama football has a quarterback problem, but why?

Could this be a gap year for Alabama football?

The short answer is yes. Five-star quarterback Julian Sayin comes to Tuscaloosa from Carlsbad, California, in 2024. They might just need someone to keep the ship afloat until Sayin is ready. Which quarterback gives the Crimson Tide the best chance to win? Tyler Buchner is not the answer.

Ty Simpson played better, but he would be best suited for an offense with more consistent receivers. Jalen Milroe gives this team — as constructed — the best chance to win. On3 football writer and podcaster Andy Staples describes Alabama’s offensive playbook best: it’s a Cheesecake Factory menu.

It’s up to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to look through that diverse playbook and install what would work best for Milroe. For example, the Texas game had too few designed quarterback runs. Of the quarterbacks on the roster, Milroe is the playmaker. There is a caveat, however, to this working for Milroe, Rees, and the Crimson Tide offense.

The offensive line has to block better. This line was supposed to be significantly better than it has been. They had issues moving South Florida’s defensive line. They should have been able to dominate the Bulls purely due to their physical size.

Even if they can’t blow opposing defensive lines off the ball, defending two runners who can score from anywhere on the field in Milroe/Haynes, Milroe/McClellan, or Milroe/Williams will give defensive coordinators fits.

Now, if the receivers can hold on to the football — sheesh.