Alabama Football: Much to unpack with Tide landing its ’23 class QB

Alabama football fans celebrated Tuesday when it was announced ’23 class QB, Eli Holstein had committed to the Crimson Tide.

For months Alabama fans have hoped 5-Star, Arch Manning would choose the Crimson Tide. Instead, Nick Saban adds a 4-Star, who some recruiting experts believe has as much upside potential as Manning. Holstein gained more national respect a couple of weeks ago at the Elite 11 Regionals in Las Vegas.

"Holstein showed off his athleticism, running a 4.64 40, notching a 38.3-inch vertical jump and running a 4.19 shuttle. In the process, he earned an invitation to the Elite 11 Finals this summer in Los Angeles."

Those impressive numbers earned Holstein an Elite 11 QB SPARQ score of 133.56. To compare, Tua Tagovailoa earned an Elite 11 score of 95.13.

In both the 247Sports Composite and the On3 Consensus Rankings, Holstein is rated as the No. 8 QB in the 2023 class. For weeks there has been a buzz the Alabama football staff rates Holstein higher. One bit of proof for that claim is Birmingham’s Christopher Vizzina is rated No. 7 and No. 5 respectively in the two-player rankings.

Alabama insiders say Vizzina, who is committed to Clemson, worked out for the Crimson Tide but did not gain a committable offer.

Holstein, from Zachary, LA is most known as a strong-armed, mostly pocket passer. He can be effective running as well. Last season he rushed for 518 yards while passing for 3,228 yards.

A few days ago, speaking with 247Sports, Holstein discussed what stood out to him about the Crimson Tide.

"The coaching staff at every position, but especially the coaches that are involved in the quarterback room. Obviously Coach O’Brien but also Coach Dooley and Coach Mortensen.  Having a great quarterback room with coaches like that …… Also I’m sure it’s everyone’s favorite thing about Bama but they win championships and put guys in the NFL. The last three starters for Alabama are now starting in the NFL and then Bryce Young wins the Heisman his first year playing and he could be a top draft pick as well."

Alabama fans have good reason to be excited about adding Holstein. No Tide fan should feel any remorse about not landing Manning, who almost assuredly will now choose a different program.

Another reason for Alabama Football excitement

Eli Holstein was a Texas A&M commit a few months ago. In the end, the young man bought what Nick Saban was selling rather than whatever the Aggies were offering. That pitch was defined by Holstein’s own words in the quote above. Coming to Tuscaloosa, to be developed by an outstanding staff is the best path to NFL success.

Eli Holstein wisely chose the Alabama Crimson Tide as the best direction to long-term value and reward.

A hat tip to lead recruiter, Pete Golding. The sometimes unappreciated Tide coach pulled in another big-time recruit.