The 2025 season could mark a watershed moment for Alabama football. Head coach Kalen DeBoer’s decision under center is critical to determining which way that turning moment will go.
The best bet is on the Crimson Tide’s head coach selecting Ty Simpson as the starter, owing to his preparation for this role over the previous three years. One compelling argument could be that he is the most experienced quarterback among blue chip freshmen Keelon Ruseell and Washington transfer Austin Mack.
But what happens if Simpson doesn’t work out? The stakes are too great for DeBoer to ignore the possibility.
Blake Toppmeyer of USA Today emphasized the repercussions while also questioning Simpson’s competence.
“If Simpson thrives, he will be a terrific example of patience paying off. “If he fizzles, DeBoer will rightfully be in the hot seat,” Toppmeyer said, citing strong reasons for his prediction.
“In this microwave age of college football, I’m skeptical of someone who has been a three-year backup. If Simpson is a top-tier SEC quarterback, why has he spent the last three seasons on Alabama’s bench?
During his three years on the bench, Simpson made one start against South Florida in 2023, which “didn’t inspire confidence.”
The hope is that there’s a Carson Beck-esque rise coming. Given the coaching staff’s expertise and incoming talent, it is not impossible. It is not guaranteed, either.
However, it would be a sheer waste of resources for DeBoer not to give Simpson a chance due to apprehension of things going awry. Although the risk is big enough to threaten his position in Tuscaloosa, DeBoer is most likely giving Simpson a chance to sink or swim.