Nick Saban Clears up Backup Quarterback Position
There is no question as to who the starter is in Tuscaloosa under center. Bryce Young has exceeded even the highest of expectations in his first two games, throwing for a combined 571 yards and seven touchdowns en route to two blowout victories. The five-star out of Mater Dei has officially arrived and is here to stay.
That being said, the coveted role of backup quarterback has been hotly debated among fans thus far this season. In his press conference this week, Saban elaborated on having two four-star quarterbacks serving as backups in the same room.
When asked to confirm whether Paul Tyson or Jalen Milroe is the backup quarterback ahead of Florida, Saban said, "I think that we're trying to get both guys experience, because I think that both guys have ability to do certain things," Saban continued, "So I know that doesn't necessarily answer your question, but right now Paul (Tyson) is the second guy and, Jalen (Milroe) is a developmental guy but doing things that he does well."
Through the Crimson Tide's first two games, both Tyson and Milroe have seen time in mop-up duty. Tyson entered the game against Miami early in the fourth quarter and subsequently attempted one pass and handed the ball off six times. In his opportunity against Mercer, however; the Trussville product was able to show off his arm, finding JoJo Earle for a 40-yard completion, but was replaced after just one drive.
Milroe, seeing his first real game experience, entered the game on the first drive of the fourth quarter, but was similarly handcuffed like Tyson against Miami, attempting just one pass. Although unable to show off his arm at all, Milroe was able to show off his great running ability, carrying the ball seven times for 33 yards against the Bears.
Whether or not either of these two will take snaps this weekend is unlikely, as the Crimson Tide head into the Swamp to take on the Florida Gators, but both are extremely capable players in their own rights. Tyson appears to be the more polished of the two as of now, but Milroe's innate athleticism makes him perfect for a modern offense and he could develop into an excellent quarterback.