The 5 Fiercest Alabama Quarterback Battles of the Last 25 Years
Alabama football has a history of intense quarterback battles, where the competition for the starting role has often shaped the program’s success. Some of these battles led to legendary seasons, while others left fans divided. Here are the five most heated QB competitions in Alabama’s recent history.
5. 2011 – A.J. McCarron vs. Phillip Sims
Coming off a national championship season, Alabama needed to replace Greg McElroy. The battle between McCarron and Sims was neck-and-neck through spring and fall camp. Sims, a highly touted recruit, had the arm talent, but McCarron’s leadership and poise won over Nick Saban. The decision proved wise as McCarron led Alabama to back-to-back national titles in 2011 and 2012.
4. 2009 – Greg McElroy vs. Star Jackson
After John Parker Wilson’s departure, Alabama had a high-profile battle between McElroy and Jackson. Jackson had the flash and athleticism, while McElroy had the system knowledge and consistency. McElroy ultimately won out, guiding Alabama to a perfect 14-0 season and their first national title under Saban. Jackson later transferred, making this one of the first great Saban-era quarterback showdowns.
3. 2014 – Blake Sims vs. Jake Coker
This battle was unique because Sims, a career backup and former running back, was up against Coker, a Florida State transfer expected to take the job. Sims shocked everyone by not only winning the role but leading Alabama to the College Football Playoff. Coker, however, would get his redemption by leading the team to a national championship the following year.
2. 2022 – Bryce Young vs. Jalen Milroe (Hypothetical Twist)
Imagine if Young had not won the Heisman in 2021 and struggled early in 2022. Fans, impatient with his performance, would have clamored for the dynamic Milroe. What if Saban had made the controversial midseason switch? Would Alabama have sacrificed Young’s elite passing ability for Milroe’s athleticism? While this battle never truly materialized, it’s a tantalizing “what if” in Alabama history.
1. 2018 – Tua Tagovailoa vs. Jalen Hurts
The most dramatic and consequential QB battle in Alabama history. Hurts, a proven winner with a 26-2 record, was benched for Tagovailoa in the 2018 National Championship Game, where Tua’s heroics cemented his status as the future. The following fall, Saban had a difficult decision: stick with Hurts’ experience or embrace Tua’s explosiveness. Tagovailoa won the job, but Hurts’ legendary SEC Championship performance against Georgia showed why he was an all-time great.
Quarterback battles at Alabama are more than just depth chart decisions—they shape legacies. Some winners became Crimson Tide legends, while others had to fight for their redemption elsewhere. Who will be the next name added to this storied list?
