Among the many storylines for Alabama’s trip to College Station for a matchup with Texas A&M, one subplot is a defacto homecoming game for the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback Jalen Milroe. Milroe’s hometown listed on his team bio is Katy, Texas, about 82 miles south of Kyle Field.

On Thursday, speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, UA coach Nick Saban revealed one of his messages to Milroe before the No. 10 Crimson Tide head to the Lone Star State.

“I try to prepare them for what we’re gonna get into. It’s gonna be a tough environment, a lot of noise, got to practice that today so we can stay focused on what’s happening on the field and not let all the external factors of what’s happening around us influence or affect our play.

“I just met with Jalen and I told him the same thing. I said, ‘Just because you’re going back to Texas, that doesn’t mean you gotta to do something different. You just gotta play your game, fundamentally do what you’re supposed to do so it gives you the best chance to be successful. “

Saban usually meets with quarterbacks on Sundays and Thursdays as part of game-week preparation. Milroe’s ability to respond to adversity — whether it be the interceptions against Texas and Ole Miss, or the benching against South Florida — has been a theme in 2023. And in recent weeks, Saban has credited Milroe for his improvements.

Against the Longhorns on Sept. 9, Milroe played in front of Vince Young, one of the stars from his childhood. Milroe faltered, but in his last two games produced three total touchdowns and one turnover while completing 27-of-33 passes. The redshirt sophomore has benefited from “little wrinkles,” Saban said as the Tide offense has grown around its official QB1.

Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher also expressed some praise toward Milroe when asked on Wednesday. Earlier this week, Milroe talked his impending return to the Houston area.

“Texas is a great place. That’s where I was born and raised. I love Texas. I have a lot of memories there. It’s going to be a great game, great atmosphere down in Texas.” said Milroe. “We have a job to do. They have a great offense and great defense. We’re excited.”

The Tide is currently a -2.5-point favorite over the Aggies. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT on CBS.

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Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].