ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF
Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban announced that quarterback Jalen Milroe will start against No. 15 Ole Miss. Milroe started the first two games of the season but was benched following a 34-24 loss to Texas in Week 2.
Game Week Central – Ole Misshttps://t.co/63L6KUilWY#RollTide pic.twitter.com/pXHMe3gCmX
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) September 18, 2023
Following Alabama’s 17-3 win over USF, Coach Saban expressed his appreciation for the team’s overall performance, despite falling behind during the first half. He credited the team’s resilience and focus for their ability to bounce back and secure the victory.
Milroe’s Absence
Despite not playing against USF, Milroe demonstrated his leadership to the team throughout the game. According to Saban, he was one of the reasons the team felt supported against the Bulls, and felt he deserved a return to the starting spot against Ole Miss.
This past week, Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner started in place of Milroe. However, he threw for only 34 yards, completing just five of his 14 passes before Ty Simpson stepped in. Simpson’s performance left much to be desired, despite eventually leading Alabama to the win.
Milroe appears to be the better starting quarterback option for the Crimson Tide and can aid Alabama’s early season struggles. His ability to step in and take over when needed is invaluable for Alabama and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Moving Forward
Despite a dominating season-opener win against Middle Tennessee, Alabama has not played to the level its used to over the course of the past two weeks. With SEC play quickly approaching, Saban saw it fit to again switch up the quarterback depth chart.
With Alabama’s game against the Rebels looming, Milroe’s return was a wise decision. Currently, the Rebels are averaging 526.7 yards and 52.7 points. As a former Crimson Tide offensive coordinator, Coach Lane Kiffin will certainly approach this game differently. Kiffin knows Alabama’s defense will be difficult to break down and will focus on exploiting their weaknesses. However, it will be necessary for the Crimson Tide offense to be able to match whatever Kiffin and Ole Miss are able to do.
