Kalen DeBoer’s Decision to Stick with Ty Simpson: A Bold Move that Will Define His Second Season at Alabam
As Kalen DeBoer prepares for his second season as the head coach of Alabama, one decision is set to define his tenure: his choice to stick with Ty Simpson as the starting quarterback. In an era where transfer quarterbacks have dominated the College Football Playoff, DeBoer’s decision to put his faith in Simpson, a longtime backup, is a bold move that will be closely watched.
The Decision to Pass on Transfer Quarterbacks
Alabama’s decision not to take a transfer quarterback is a significant one. In recent years, transfer quarterbacks have had a major impact on the college football landscape. Just last season, several transfer quarterbacks led their teams to the College Football Playoff. By choosing not to bring in a transfer quarterback, DeBoer is putting his faith in Simpson, who has limited experience as a starter.
Evaluating Ty Simpson
So, what does DeBoer see in Simpson that makes him confident in his ability to lead the team? The answer lies in Simpson’s performance in practice. Despite playing limited snaps over the past three seasons, Simpson has apparently shown enough in practice to convince DeBoer that he has what it takes to be a successful starter.
The Pressure is On
DeBoer’s decision to stick with Simpson will be closely scrutinized, particularly given the high expectations that come with coaching at Alabama. Quarterback evaluation and development are supposed to be among DeBoer’s strengths, but his reputation took a hit last season when Jalen Milroe regressed under his guidance.
A New Offensive Coordinator
In a move that could help Simpson succeed, DeBoer has hired Ryan Grubb as his new offensive coordinator. Grubb, who previously worked with DeBoer at Washington, helped the Huskies reach the national title game in 2023. His experience and expertise could be just what Simpson needs to take his game to the next level.
Conclusion
Kalen DeBoer’s decision to stick with Ty Simpson as his starting quarterback is a bold move that will define his second season at Alabama. While it’s a risk, it’s also a testament to DeBoer’s confidence in Simpson’s abilities. With a new offensive coordinator on board, Simpson will have the support he needs to succeed. Only time will tell if DeBoer’s decision pays off, but one thing is certain: it will be a fascinating story to watch unfold.
