Week 13 Bama Pro of the Week: Tua Tagovailoa
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has seen some scrutiny directed his way since being named the starting quarterback in Week 8 of the NFL season. Still, Tagovailoa entered Sunday's contest with a 3-1 record and just one turnover to his name amidst uncertainty on whether he'd even play thanks to a thumb injury.
Nevertheless, Tagovailoa took the field against the Cincinnati Bengals ready to silence his doubters.
Many of Tagovailoa's critics point to looking uncomfortable in the pocket and lack of downfield attempts. Sunday against the Bengals, Tagovailoa showed improvement in both areas, willing his team to a 19-7 victory.
Tagovailoa finished the game 26-39 for 296 yards and a touchdown. In the process, he moved his record as a starter to 4-1 and tying the Dolphins franchise records for longest streak of starts without an interception.
With his Dolphins sitting pretty at 8-4, Tagovailoa will have to continue to play his best ball with a tough final stretch in the playoff race. The Dolphins will see the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, and Buffalo Bills to close the season.
Still, Tagovailoa looks the part as the starting quarterback, and amidst the adversity of his benching and injury looks determined to make the most of his opportunities.
Regardless of the outside noise, Tagovailoa has played remarkably well, with his latest efforts being one of his best starts. With two Bama Pro of the Week awards under his belt, Tagovailoa has already cemented himself as one of the premiere Alabama alums at the next level.
Now for our honorable mentions:
- Jalen Hurts, Eagles: 5-12 passing for 109 yards and his first NFL touchdown
- Henry Ruggs III, Raiders: three receptions for 84 yards and a game-winning touchdown
- Cam Sims, Washington: five receptions, 92 yards including a clutch one-handed catch late to set up the go-ahead score
- Jedrick Wills, Browns: Plays like this.
Be sure to tune back into tide1009.com each Tuesday to see the Bama Pro of the Week throughout the NFL season.
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