The tide is shifting in Tuscaloosa—literally. Alabama football is at a crossroads, and no one is feeling the pressure more than Ty Simpson. With Kalen DeBoer stepping into the massive shoes left behind by the legendary Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide faithful have one burning question: Can Alabama reclaim its dominance, or is a fall from grace inevitable?
DeBoer’s first season didn’t exactly set the world on fire, with Alabama failing to reach the College Football Playoff for the first time in years. So, what’s his next move? Enter Ryan Grubb, the offensive mastermind behind Washington’s high-octane attack. Grubb’s arrival isn’t just a strategic hire—it’s a seismic shift that could redefine Alabama’s offense and, more importantly, determine Simpson’s fate.
Is Ty Simpson Ready for His Moment? Or Will He Crumble Under the Pressure?
For years, Ty Simpson has been waiting in the shadows, biding his time as Alabama’s backup quarterback. He watched Jalen Milroe take center stage, endured the highs and lows of SEC football, and now, finally, the door to QB1 is creaking open. But is he the right man for the job?
Unlike last season, DeBoer made a bold decision NOT to bring in a transfer quarterback. That alone speaks volumes. It suggests that, despite the doubts, he believes in Simpson’s potential. Maybe he sees something that others don’t. Maybe he believes Simpson is the missing piece in his offensive puzzle.
But let’s not ignore reality—Simpson’s ranking among SEC quarterbacks isn’t pretty. In a breakdown by That SEC Football Podcast, analyst Steven Lassan placed him at No. 13 out of 16 quarterbacks. That’s not exactly elite territory.
Lassan explained his reasoning: “If I knew he was the starter, I’d probably move him up a spot or two.” Translation? Simpson is still an unknown commodity, and no one is quite sure what to expect.
But Lassan wasn’t all doom and gloom. He acknowledged the upside, saying, “There’s a lot of potential. Former five-star recruit. The DeBoer-Ryan Grubb offense is going to produce yards and points.” That’s promising—but only if Simpson wins the starting job.
Ryan Grubb: The X-Factor That Could Change Everything
If Simpson ever needed a lifeline, Ryan Grubb might be it. Grubb isn’t just any offensive coordinator—he’s an architect of elite passing attacks. His partnership with DeBoer at Washington produced one of the most explosive offenses in college football, ranking first and second in passing offense in 2022 and 2023.
And let’s not forget the quarterbacks he’s developed. Michael Penix Jr. went from injury-prone afterthought to Heisman finalist under Grubb’s system. Jake Haener? He carved out an NFL future thanks to Grubb’s coaching. Now, it’s Simpson’s turn.
The question is: Can Simpson be the next QB success story under Grubb? Or will Alabama’s offense struggle to find its rhythm in this new era?
Alabama Insider Weighs In: Why Simpson Might Be the Perfect Fit
The comparisons between Simpson and Milroe are inevitable. Milroe, a physical freak with elite rushing ability, had his ups and downs as Alabama’s starter. But what he lacked in accuracy and consistency, he made up for with raw athleticism.
Simpson, on the other hand, is a much different kind of quarterback. He’s known for his accuracy, a critical trait in DeBoer’s offense, which emphasizes precision passing and quick decision-making. Unlike Milroe, he won’t be a major rushing threat, but his ability to distribute the ball efficiently downfield could make him an ideal fit.
Clint Lamb from BamaOnline sees the potential: “He throws with accuracy. Ball placement? It’s been a little spotty at times, but he’s way more consistent with ball placement and accuracy than Jalen Milroe.”
That’s a huge statement. If Simpson can master the timing and precision throws required in Grubb’s system, Alabama’s offense could become lethal once again.
QB1 or Bust? The Battle for Alabama’s Starting Job Heats Up
Simpson isn’t just fighting for a chance to prove himself—he’s fighting for his future. This is his fourth year with Alabama. He was a five-star recruit, expected to be the next great Crimson Tide quarterback. But if he doesn’t seize this moment, his time in Tuscaloosa could end in disappointment.
And let’s not forget—he’s got competition. Two young guns, Keelon Russell and Austin Mack, are waiting in the wings, hungry for their shot at the starting job. One slip-up from Simpson, and he could find himself back on the bench, watching another quarterback take the spotlight.
The Final Question: Is Simpson the Savior Alabama Needs?
Kalen DeBoer seems to believe in him. “You certainly appreciate what he’s done. He’s stepping up as a leader. Now, he has the opportunity to step in and be the quarterback.”
But belief alone won’t win championships. Simpson has to prove it on the field. He has to command the huddle, make the throws, and lead Alabama back to the promised land.
So, is Ty Simpson ready to rise to the occasion? Or is he simply another highly touted recruit who never lived up to the hype?
One thing’s for sure: this will be the most defining season of his career.
