Austin Mack Makes Strong Push for Alabama’s Starting Quarterback Job
As Alabama enters spring practice, one of the most intriguing storylines surrounding the Crimson Tide is the battle for the starting quarterback position. While much of the attention has been focused on the competition between the incumbent Jalen Milroe and highly touted freshman Ty Simpson, reports indicate that Austin Mack, a rising star in the program, is making a serious push for the starting job.
Mack, who transferred to Alabama from a smaller program, has quickly turned heads with his performance during offseason workouts and early practices. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound signal-caller brings a unique combination of size, mobility, and arm strength to the table, making him an intriguing option for head coach Nick Saban. While Milroe and Simpson have both shown promise in previous seasons, Mack’s rapid development and impressive skill set have created significant buzz around Tuscaloosa.
Mack’s Background and Early Impressions
Austin Mack originally joined Alabama as a highly rated recruit, but his journey to this point has not been entirely smooth. After spending time developing behind the scenes and gaining invaluable experience, Mack now appears poised to challenge for the starting job. Reports from inside the program suggest that Mack has been an outstanding presence in the quarterback room, consistently impressing coaches with his work ethic and ability to grasp the offensive playbook.
In scrimmages and drills, Mack has demonstrated the ability to make all the necessary throws, with particular praise coming for his deep ball accuracy and poise under pressure. His mobility is also a key asset, as he can extend plays with his legs, a trait that fits well within Alabama’s offensive philosophy under offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. If Mack can continue to refine his decision-making and prove that he can handle the pressure of leading a program like Alabama, he could be an ideal fit to lead the Tide into the 2025 season.
The Competition: Milroe vs. Simpson
Of course, Mack isn’t the only quarterback vying for the starting job. Jalen Milroe, who started several games for Alabama last season, remains a formidable competitor. Milroe’s dual-threat capabilities and strong arm have made him a fan favorite, but his struggles with consistency and decision-making at times have raised questions about his readiness to lead the offense in a high-pressure environment like the College Football Playoff.
Ty Simpson, a true freshman, also presents a significant challenge for Mack. Simpson, a former five-star recruit, brings exceptional talent and potential to the table. His maturity and football IQ have impressed coaches during the early stages of his collegiate career, making him a prime candidate for the starting role. Though still learning the system, Simpson has shown flashes of brilliance that make him an exciting prospect for the future.
Mack’s Opportunity
The opportunity for Mack to grab the starting job may come down to his ability to prove that he offers something that Milroe and Simpson cannot. While Milroe brings dynamic athleticism and Simpson possesses raw potential, Mack’s polished mechanics and ability to throw with accuracy from the pocket could give him an edge. Additionally, his leadership skills and poise in the huddle are qualities that have caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike.
Saban, known for his meticulous evaluation process, has not yet named a starter for the 2025 season, and it is clear that the competition will remain open throughout the spring and into fall camp. However, Mack’s impressive spring performances have made it clear that he will not simply be a backup. He is making a statement that he is ready to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
With spring practice ongoing, all eyes will be on the quarterback competition in Alabama. While it is still early, Mack’s emergence as a serious contender for the starting job has added a new layer of intrigue to what was already shaping up to be a highly competitive position battle. If he can continue to build on his early success, Austin Mack may just emerge as the man to lead Alabama’s offense in 2025. However, with Milroe and Simpson both vying for the same opportunity, the battle for the starting quarterback role promises to be one of the most compelling storylines in college football this year.
