It is looking less and less likely that reigning Honolulu Star-Advertiser offensive player of the year Tua Tagovailoa will redshirt his freshman season at Alabama.
In an appearance last week on ESPN’s “The Paul Finebaum Show,” Alabama coach Nick Saban reiterated what he has said before — that sophomore Jalen Hurts will be the starting quarterback but they hope to find a way to get Tagovailoa on the field.
“I think Tua has to play,” Saban said. “I think we need Tua to play. I think there may come a time in the season where Tua has to play.”
Tagovailoa was the top dual-threat quarterback recruit in the nation and did his best to create a QB controversy at Alabama with an outstanding showing in the annual Crimson Tide spring game.
Tagovailoa capped his first two drives with touchdown passes and was 12-for-18 for 276 yards and three TDs in the first half. He finished with 315 yards on 18-for-32 passing.
Saban elaborated on Tua’s situation during the radio show when he said, “Our job as coaches is to make a decision about what would help Tua’s development. So if that occurs, he’ll be ready to do it. We’re looking forward to — haven’t decided how — to give him some opportunity to enhance his development as a quarterback by getting some playing time somewhere along the way.”
Alabama opens the season against Florida State on Sept. 2 before hosting Mountain West Conference teams Fresno State and Colorado State in back-to-back weeks.
To listen to Saban’s full interview, click here.
Agreed, Bama’s going to need the passing game to pull them out of tight games.
Congrats Tua!! Looking forward to watching you on Saturdays!
And this only reinforces my previous comments about replacing him – not happening. He’s so good he no need redshirt at the most competitive position on the most competitive football team in all of college.
I give Puns da edge in da ILH this year