Tide Takes: Milroe’s Absence Might Help Alabama’s Bowl Game Chances
As Alabama prepares for its upcoming bowl game, the focus naturally turns to the team’s quarterback situation. Jalen Milroe, the Crimson Tide’s starter for much of the 2023 season, has shown flashes of brilliance but also moments of inconsistency. While Milroe’s contributions have been essential to the team’s success, some might argue that his absence from the starting lineup could, in fact, benefit the team during the bowl game. Though the decision is unlikely to be made in the immediate future, it’s worth exploring how a change at quarterback could provide Alabama with a better chance at securing a victory.
Milroe’s Journey and Challenges
Jalen Milroe was thrust into the spotlight when Alabama’s previous starter, Bryce Young, entered the NFL Draft. After a strong showing in limited appearances in 2022, Milroe was expected to be the clear successor at quarterback for the Crimson Tide. Early in 2023, he lived up to expectations, leading Alabama to an impressive victory over Texas in Week 2. Milroe’s dual-threat ability—his athleticism and powerful arm—allowed him to make big plays in both the passing and running game. He was often Alabama’s best option when things broke down, using his legs to extend plays or punch through for a key first down.
However, as the season wore on, Milroe’s performance became more erratic. While his athletic ability remained undeniable, his accuracy as a passer fluctuated, particularly in key moments. He showed a tendency to struggle with timing, particularly on deep throws and under pressure. Though Milroe did improve throughout the season, his inconsistency still haunted Alabama in some of their biggest games. A quarterback with his kind of raw talent needs time to develop his mental game—reading defenses, making quick decisions, and executing with precision.
Milroe’s performances in critical games, particularly in losses to Texas A&M and LSU, raised questions about his ability to lead Alabama in high-pressure situations. Despite this, he earned his place as the starter through his raw athleticism and explosive potential. But there’s an argument to be made that a change at quarterback might be just what the Tide need to elevate their game in the postseason.
The Case for Milroe’s Absence
While Milroe has undoubtedly earned the right to play in the bowl game, his absence from the starting lineup might actually help the team. The primary reason for this is the ability of the backup quarterbacks to provide a different dimension to Alabama’s offense. The Tide has multiple capable quarterbacks, and each offers a unique skill set that could complement the team’s needs.
For one, backup quarterback Ty Simpson, a highly-touted freshman with exceptional pocket presence and an advanced understanding of the game, could bring a more polished passing attack. Simpson, who has seen limited action this season, could provide a more consistent throwing option for Alabama’s offense, especially in games that require precise passing to exploit opposing defenses. Unlike Milroe, who can sometimes struggle to make the necessary reads in the pocket, Simpson is more comfortable in a traditional passing game. His ability to quickly assess defensive schemes and make accurate throws could give Alabama’s offense a more balanced attack, making it less predictable and more difficult to defend.
Another backup, Jalen’s younger brother, Dylan Milroe, who has shown promise in practice, could potentially bring fresh energy and more fluidity to the offense. Though still developing, Dylan has demonstrated moments of playmaking that could add a dynamic edge to Alabama’s offense. His playing style could more closely resemble the successful play that Alabama fans have seen in the past, which might give the team a more effective offensive game plan for the postseason.
Improved Offensive Flow
One of the main arguments for a change at quarterback is the possibility of better offensive flow. Alabama’s offense has at times been sluggish under Milroe, particularly when they need to sustain drives or make quick decisions under pressure. In these situations, Milroe’s tendency to rely on his athleticism often leads to rushed decisions, which can stall drives or result in turnovers. A backup quarterback who is more adept at running a consistent passing game could be just what Alabama needs to unlock their offensive potential.
Simpson, for example, has been praised for his ability to make quick, decisive reads in practice. In a bowl game setting, where preparation is critical, a quarterback with a higher football IQ and the ability to execute under pressure could be an invaluable asset. Milroe, though dynamic, can at times struggle with accuracy on deep balls and timing with his receivers. In a game where precision is paramount, Simpson could offer a more stable and reliable option.
The Argument for Milroe’s Development
However, it is also important to recognize that Milroe’s development as a quarterback is not something that should be discarded easily. As the season progresses, players like Milroe often find a rhythm and adapt to the mental challenges of the quarterback position. Bowl games often provide an opportunity for growth, and this could be Milroe’s chance to iron out the kinks in his game and show that he can lead Alabama to victory. If Milroe has spent time refining his mechanics and decision-making, he could come out with a new sense of maturity and take control of the offense in a way he hasn’t before.
Additionally, Milroe’s experience on the field and his ability to create big plays with his legs could be essential in a high-stakes bowl game. While the passing game might need refinement, Milroe’s mobility remains a dangerous asset. Against a defense that is geared to stop the traditional pocket passer, his ability to scramble and make plays on the move could be the key to opening up scoring opportunities for Alabama.
Balancing the Best of Both Worlds
Ultimately, Alabama’s success in the bowl game may not necessarily hinge on Milroe’s absence, but rather on how Nick Saban and his coaching staff choose to balance the skills of all their quarterbacks. A healthy rotation could provide Alabama with the flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances on the field. Milroe’s big-play potential, coupled with Simpson’s efficiency and poise, could combine to give Alabama the best chance at securing a win. Whether or not Milroe starts the game, his ability to contribute as a change-of-pace option could be the key to catching the opposition off guard.
In conclusion, while Milroe has earned the right to participate in the bowl game, his absence from the starting lineup could ultimately benefit Alabama’s chances. A more consistent passing attack, along with a change of pace from backup quarterbacks, could give Alabama the edge they need to prevail in a tough postseason matchup. At the end of the day, it’s about putting the team in the best possible position to win, and that might mean exploring other quarterback options to take advantage of all available strengths.
