Alabama OC Names 'Frontrunner' in Quarterback Competition

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The Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback battle is still ongoing, but Ty Simpson remains the frontrunner heading into summer workouts. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb reaffirmed Simpson's status during an interview on "Tide 100.9", citing his improvement and command of the offense.

"Ty took care of the football better. He operated better. I thought he improved for an older quarterback," Grubb said. "Especially towards the latter part of the spring, he really started to show more of those characteristics."

Simpson, a redshirt junior, has been competing with Austin Mack and Keelon Russell for the starting job. While Mack, a transfer from Washington, has familiarity with Grubb's system, and Russell brings five-star talent, Simpson's experience and decision-making have given him the edge.

Grubb emphasized that the competition isn't over, but Simpson's ability to protect the football and execute the offense has kept him ahead. "We're still going to let them compete," he said. "We still are right now and will again in fall camp."

Simpson has appeared in six games over the past two seasons, throwing for 381 yards and three rushing touchdowns. While he hasn't had extensive playing time, his development under Nick Saban and now Kalen DeBoer has positioned him as the likely starter.

Alabama opens its season on August 30 against Florida State, and while the battle isn't officially settled, Simpson is in the driver's seat. If he continues to build on his spring performance, he'll likely be the one leading the Crimson Tide offense in Week 1.