ESPN: Alabama QB battle ‘legit race,’ Ty Simpson ‘has to go win job,’ another has player support

Alabama football spring practice, once again, centers around the quarterback position.

With the departure of Jalen Milroe, there is an interesting dynamic in Tuscaloosa at the position, according to ESPN’s Chris Low.

Low, who was on campus, came away with a couple of observations.

“Ty Simpson best positioned to be starter, but has to go win it,” Low posted on social media Wednesday. “Hasn’t done it yet.

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“Austin Mack is battling and has some real support among players. Keelon Russell most talented of the three, but a freshman. Legit race.”

The comments appear to be consistent with AL.com’s reporting after the second scrimmage of spring last week in that there seems to be little separation at this point. In addition, the reps and order of competition appears to be based on experience.

However, Low’s assertion that Mack has earned support among the players certainly adds a wrinkle to the developing story.

Russell has often been considered the quarterback with the most upside but his lack of experience – he stepped on campus this semester – remains a hurdle.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.