Alabama Football: Greg McElroy talking up Tide offense

Former Alabama football quarterback turned broadcaster, Greg McElroy is known to irritate Crimson Tide fans. In his media career, GMac has been cautious about being perceived as an Alabama homer. To some that has meant, his takes on Alabama football have often been too critical.

His latest observations about the Crimson Tide are far from negative. His preseason ranking has Alabama as the nation’s No. 3 team. He has said the Crimson Tide will be the best team in a tough SEC West.

Most importantly, McElroy recently stated he has no concerns about the Crimson Tide’s quarterback play. As reported by On3, McElroy said,

"I’m just not worried about the quarterback spot at Bama. I think we’re gonna be fine. I think Tommy Rees’ offense will protect that guy."

Notice that the former Crimson Tide starter used ‘we’ in his statement rather than talking about Alabama as a ‘they’.

McElroy expects the Crimson Tide offense to be more like it was when he was the Crimson Tide starter, rather than the pass-heavy approach of the last few seasons.

"I also think the way they’re going to practice here in 2023 is going to be with more of an emphasis along the line of scrimmage. There’s going to be more of an emphasis on the downhill A-gap to A-gap run game. I’m very optimistic about their offensive line’s progress and the depth that they have at running back."

McElroy’s comments are sweet music to the many Alabama football fans who miss the days of ‘Murderball’ in Tuscaloosa. There can be no debate over what Nick Saban and Alabama accomplished in the 2009-2015 period. There were four national championships during the seven-season period. In the seven-season span since only two national championships have been achieved.

Being more specific about the Alabama Crimson Tide offense in 2023, McElroy explained,

"this offense is going to be balanced and it’s going to play ball control … take the air out of the football."

The only Alabama offensive position McElroy said that is probably not elite is wide receiver. He also said the group has more than enough talent to be effective. Like Alabama football fans, McElroy does not know who QB1 will be, but he is optimistic the position will be a strength. He even suggested Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, or Tyler Buchner could become an All-American.

No doubt opposing fans will now call out McElroy for bias. And Crimson Tide fans will not care in the least.