No. 4 – Greg McElroy
Greg McElroy started two seasons at Alabama. In his first year, he led Alabama football to Nick Saban’s first national title at Alabama in 2009. The victory culminated in the University’s first national title since 1992. Interestingly, Greg originally committed to Texas Tech while at Carroll Senior High School in Texas. He changed his decision deciding instead to play for coach Mike Shula, and the rest is history.
He was steady at quarterback as he threw 198 completions for 2,508 yards with 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. Fans celebrated the game-winning pass to running back Roy Upchurch against Auburn in the Iron Bowl leading the team to the SEC Championship game rematch against the Florida Gators. During his senior season, Alabama finished with a record of 10-3. Overall, McElroy finished the season 222 of 313 for 2,987 yards for 20 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Nick Saban’s preference for ‘game managers’ rather than ‘gun-slingers’ was a perfect match for the skills set of Greg McElroy.