On Thursday morning, Alabama Football held its first scrimmage of the spring. It was closed to media eyes, so all Crimson Tide fans have for a review came from Kalen DeBoer after the session. More on DeBoer below. First, let's review what has been learned about the quarterbacks during the seven practice sessions before Thursday.
Not specifically on the practice field, but indicative of what is happening on and off the field, Ty Simpson was recently voted to the team's Leadership Council. The endorsement by his teammates does not mean that Simpson is a lock for the starting job, but it does show that Simpson has been taking a stronger, more vocal role than in seasons past.
In at least one practice session, Alabama football insiders have reported that each of the Tide's three scholarship quarterbacks has stood out. Most of the comments about all three have been about passing accuracy. Alabama football fans want to hear about the trio making correct reads. Past comments by DeBoer were that they have, but he did not go into detail.
Saying DeBoer is a careful communicator is an understatement. Some Crimson Tide fans chalk up everything he says to 'coach speak' that provides little insight into how the team is progressing. Judge for yourself while reading DeBoer's scrimmage comments.
Kalen DeBoer on Alabama Football Spring Scrimmage No. 1
Colin Gay of the Tuscaloosa News provided the following summary and quotes.
- 'Overall, DeBoer was pleased with the quarterback room of Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell, saying the unit looked "more comfortable today." He also said he didn't see anything that would necessarily change his mind about the status of the room.'
- "I think it's pretty consistent from where it was from the beginning. They all bring something a little bit different to the table. Even though it's not like maybe a runner and then a passer, it's guys doing their thing and what their strengths are."
- While not specifying Simpson, Mack or Russell, DeBoer said one quarterback is set apart by his ability to throw catchable balls, while another who is better at field throws, another better at scrambling.'
So ... Ty Simpson did not win the QB1 job in spring scrimmage No. 1. Neither did Austin Mack or Kelon Russell. A starter not being named at any point during spring practices should be no surprise. A guess is that the competition will continue until mid or late August.
Alabama Football will have another spring scrimmage before the A-Day practice.