Ryan Grubb’s comments regarding Alabama football quarterbacks Ty Simpson and Keelon Russell.

Ryan Grubb, who is widely regarded as one of the top offensive minds in college football, has quickly made a significant impact as the offensive coordinator at Alabama. His arrival at Alabama coincides with a crucial phase in the development of the team’s quarterback position, especially with two standout quarterbacks, Ty Simpson and Keelon Russell, vying for the starting role. Grubb’s comments on these quarterbacks provide a deeper understanding of what he values in his signal-callers, the expectations he has for them, and the overall offensive philosophy he plans to implement. His evaluations of Simpson and Russell give fans and analysts alike a glimpse into the strategic decisions shaping Alabama’s quarterback competition for the future.

Ryan Grubb’s Background and Philosophy

Before diving into Grubb’s specific comments on Ty Simpson and Keelon Russell, it’s important to understand his background and philosophy as an offensive coordinator. Ryan Grubb rose to prominence as the offensive coordinator at Washington, where he helped develop quarterback Michael Penix Jr. into one of the most productive passers in the country. His work with Penix earned him accolades and a reputation for being a coach who excels at maximizing a quarterback’s potential. Known for his aggressive offensive style, Grubb’s system prioritizes a dynamic passing game, quick decision-making, and a balanced attack that incorporates both the run and the pass.

At Alabama, Grubb inherits a tradition of dominant football, but also a roster that has experienced some transitions in recent years, particularly at the quarterback position. Alabama, traditionally known for a strong rushing attack and a stable of elite running backs, has increasingly shifted towards a more pass-heavy offense under head coach Nick Saban’s evolving philosophy. Grubb’s challenge is to continue developing Alabama’s offensive identity, while also optimizing the talent at the quarterback position, which has often been the focal point for national championship contenders.

Ty Simpson: A Seasoned Competitor

Ty Simpson, a former five-star recruit from the 2022 class, entered Alabama with significant hype and expectations. He was the highly touted quarterback who many believed would eventually take over the starting role after the departure of Bryce Young, Alabama’s star quarterback and the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner. However, after spending his first year primarily as a backup, Simpson has been waiting for his chance to prove himself as the next leader of Alabama’s offense.

Ryan Grubb’s comments about Ty Simpson have been mixed with both praise for his potential and acknowledgment of the work he still needs to do. Grubb noted that Simpson’s commitment and work ethic have impressed him, saying, “One thing I like and appreciate about Ty already is that you can tell he’s very serious about wanting to succeed.” This type of praise highlights the level of maturity Simpson has displayed, even as a young quarterback. In a program as prestigious as Alabama, the competition at quarterback is fierce, and Grubb understands the importance of having a quarterback who is mentally prepared to lead.

Moreover, Grubb has seen Simpson grow into the role of an experienced competitor. The phrase “waiting in the wings” was used by Grubb when discussing Simpson’s role within the team during his first year. Simpson’s ability to learn from Bryce Young and other upperclassmen quarterbacks while biding his time has likely been beneficial for his overall development. While he has not seen extensive starting opportunities yet, his time behind Young, coupled with his athleticism and natural ability, makes Simpson one of the frontrunners for the starting job in 2025.

Simpson’s skill set is widely regarded as strong. He possesses excellent physical tools, including a strong arm, good mobility, and the ability to make plays outside the pocket. These attributes are crucial in Grubb’s system, which leans heavily on a quarterback’s ability to make quick, decisive throws and manage a high-paced offense. However, Grubb also has a clear expectation for Simpson to refine his decision-making, his consistency, and his ability to execute under pressure. While Grubb has expressed confidence in Simpson’s development, he has made it clear that the quarterback competition is wide open, and Simpson must continue to prove that he can lead the team effectively on game day.

Keelon Russell: A Rising Star with Impressive Vision

In addition to Ty Simpson, Alabama’s quarterback room includes Keelon Russell, a true freshman who joined the Crimson Tide as a highly ranked recruit from the 2024 class. Russell, a dual-threat quarterback, was one of the most coveted high school quarterbacks in the country and has been described as a player with immense upside. Grubb’s comments about Russell have been highly positive, and he seems particularly impressed with Russell’s football IQ and vision on the field.

One of the standout qualities that Grubb has highlighted about Keelon Russell is his ability to read the game and see the field. Grubb drew comparisons between Russell and former Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr., suggesting that Russell shares some of the same attributes that made Penix so effective in Grubb’s system. He mentioned that Russell’s “vision reminds me of Michael Penix a bit. He has good, wide vision with the field,” emphasizing that Russell possesses the ability to process what is happening on the field in real time. This is a critical quality for a quarterback in Grubb’s offense, which relies on making fast, accurate decisions to keep the defense on its toes.

Grubb was also quick to note that while Russell is still learning the intricacies of Alabama’s offense, his natural instincts are undeniable. “Even when Keelon’s not completely aware of everything happening around him, he still has the ability to see the game unfold,” Grubb explained. This speaks to Russell’s potential to become an immediate contributor. Despite his status as a freshman, Russell’s ability to visualize plays and understand the flow of the game is something that can’t be taught, and Grubb seems confident that it will serve him well as he develops.

While Grubb has praised Russell’s football intelligence, he also acknowledged that the young quarterback is still in the process of acclimating to the speed of college football. Learning the finer points of Grubb’s system will take time, but Grubb is optimistic about Russell’s trajectory. He believes that once Russell becomes more familiar with the Alabama playbook and gains experience, he will be a major asset to the team. Grubb even expressed that Russell’s potential is such that he could push for playing time sooner rather than later.

Austin Mack: A Dark Horse in the Mix

While much of the conversation surrounding Alabama’s quarterback competition has focused on Ty Simpson and Keelon Russell, Grubb has also given attention to another quarterback in the room—Austin Mack, a transfer who has come to Alabama with a point to prove. Mack, a highly regarded prospect in his own right, has not been as prominent in the public discussion as Simpson and Russell, but Grubb has recognized his potential and his role in the competition.

Grubb’s comments about Mack highlight his belief in giving all quarterbacks an equal chance to compete, regardless of their status or experience level. He emphasized that Mack’s skill set fits well with the aggressive offensive approach he plans to implement. Grubb’s desire to keep the quarterback competition open, especially with someone like Mack in the fold, ensures that no player will have a guaranteed starting spot without earning it.

Grubb’s Offensive Philosophy: Aggression and Adaptability

Throughout his comments on Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack, Ryan Grubb has repeatedly emphasized his offensive philosophy—aggression. Grubb’s system is predicated on creating an attacking mindset that pushes the ball down the field and puts pressure on the opposing defense. His quarterbacks must be decisive, accurate, and unafraid to take calculated risks in the passing game. This is especially important for Grubb, who believes that a dynamic, pass-first offense is essential to competing at the highest level.

In this context, Grubb’s approach to Alabama’s quarterback competition becomes even clearer. He wants a quarterback who can thrive in an aggressive system, one who can read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver the ball to playmakers. Whether it’s Simpson with his athleticism and experience, Russell with his natural instincts and vision, or Mack with his physical tools, Grubb’s goal is to find a quarterback who can execute his high-octane offense.