Entering his fourth year at Alabama, Ty Simpson is finally stepping into the starting quarterback role he has long awaited. After redshirting in 2021, he lost the QB battle to Jalen Milroe in 2022 and spent the next two seasons as Milroe’s backup. In an era where the transfer portal offers easy exits, Simpson stayed put driven by a deep commitment to Alabama and a desire to play for the Crimson Tide.
Now, the first part of the dream he’s carried since committing four years ago is becoming reality. On Monday night, Simpson was officially named Alabama’s starting quarterback. The bigger goal, though, is the dream’s grand finale.
“Yeah, well, it ended in confetti in Miami, Florida,” Simpson told Yea-Alabama, referencing the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship set for January 19. “Especially with the chance to leave a legacy under Kalen DeBoer, a first national championship at Alabama. So I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Despite last season’s results, Alabama’s standard hasn’t changed winning the National Championship remains the top priority. With a loaded roster, Simpson now leads a team capable of being the last one standing when the confetti falls.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer calls Simpson “easy to root for,” pointing out how rare it is for any quarterback to stay three years without starting, let alone in today’s transfer-friendly environment. Simpson could have left last year or after Nick Saban’s retirement but chose to compete for the job against Austin Mack and Keelon Russell. His loyalty to the program, teammates, and school has made him a fan favorite.
Crimson Tide supporters see parallels to Mac Jones, who waited three years before leading Alabama to an undefeated championship season in 2020. If Simpson can do the same, it would be the perfect ending to his long journey.
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