The Tide is slowly but steadily favoring Ty Simpson in Tuscaloosa. The updates from Alabama’s practice sessions already suggest that Simpson has a better shot than his competitors, Austin Mack and Keelon Russel, at becoming the team’s QB1 in 2025.

OC Ryan Grubb’s assessment adds another layer of certainty to Simpson’s case.

“(Simpson) earned that, okay?” Grubb said per AL.com. “And I know that’s the line everybody’s looking for, but that is what he earned. Austin Mack made huge strides, also available reps were the same, you know, and he did a really good job. He came out and developed. Just with some of the nuances and take care of the football and things like that, but Ty showed out a little bit better.”

Although DeBoer has not officially named favorites, he has lauded Simpson’s reps in spring and summer.

Entering his fourth year in Alabama is a major card up Simpson’s sleeve. His familiarity with both Nick Saban’s and Kalen DeBoer’s ways, and mainly, knowing the Crimson Tide culture more than Mack or Russell, adds up.

But DeBoer won’t be settling for anything less than perfection in his starting signal-caller. Simpson will be named the starter only if he is the fastest one to fulfill their expectations.

So, Simpson should expect to wait until almost the beginning of the regular season to officially hear his name as the Tide’s starter.

**Alabama Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb Sends Strong Hint in Favor of Ty Simpson in Crimson Tide Football QB Battle: ‘Earned That’**

As the Alabama Crimson Tide embarks on its 2025 football season, the quarterback position remains a focal point of intense competition. With the departure of Jalen Milroe, the battle for the starting quarterback role has intensified among Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and freshman Keelon Russell. Recently, Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb’s comments have provided significant insight into the ongoing competition, particularly highlighting Simpson’s progress and readiness.([Sportskeeda][1])

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### The Quarterback Competition Landscape

The Crimson Tide’s quarterback room is experiencing a transformative phase. Ty Simpson, a former five-star recruit from Tennessee, has spent the past two seasons as a backup, learning behind Milroe. Austin Mack, a transfer from Washington, brings familiarity with Grubb’s offensive system, having worked with him previously. Keelon Russell, a highly touted freshman from Texas, enters the competition with high expectations. Each quarterback offers unique strengths, making the competition both dynamic and unpredictable.([Sportskeeda][1])

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### Ryan Grubb’s Assessment of Ty Simpson

In a recent media session, Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb provided an in-depth evaluation of the quarterbacks’ performances during spring practices. Notably, Grubb emphasized Simpson’s significant improvement:([on3.com][2])

> “Ty’s done a good job. I thought he had the biggest jump from day one to day two just as far as being able to take in all the information, process quickly, and move.” ([SI][3])

Grubb’s acknowledgment of Simpson’s rapid adaptation underscores the quarterback’s growing command of the offense. This development is particularly noteworthy, given the complexities of Grubb’s system and the high expectations placed on the starting quarterback.

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### The Importance of Mental Acuity in Quarterback Play

Grubb further elaborated on the mental aspects of quarterback play, highlighting the necessity for quick decision-making and adaptability:

> “The thing I like and appreciate about Ty already, that I can tell, is he’s very serious about wanting to succeed. I think he’s had the mindset that he’s been ready in that he’s kind of waiting in the wings, so to speak. I know that he’s committed to the process, and I think that’s what makes great quarterbacks.” ([tdalabamamag.com][4])

This statement reflects Simpson’s readiness to assume the starting role, emphasizing his commitment to continuous improvement and his proactive approach to mastering the offense.

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### The Significance of Grubb’s Endorsement

Grubb’s comments carry substantial weight, given his pivotal role in shaping the offensive strategy and his extensive experience working with quarterbacks. His positive assessment of Simpson not only highlights the quarterback’s development but also suggests a growing confidence in Simpson’s ability to lead the team. Such endorsements from the offensive coordinator often precede official depth chart announcements, indicating that Simpson may be emerging as the frontrunner in the quarterback competition.

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### The Road Ahead

As spring practices continue, the competition for the starting quarterback position remains fluid. Simpson’s recent progress, coupled with Grubb’s favorable evaluation, positions him as a strong candidate to lead the Crimson Tide’s offense in the upcoming season. However, with talented contenders like Mack and Russell vying for the role, the final decision will likely hinge on continued performance, leadership, and consistency throughout the remainder of the spring and into fall camp.([SI][3])

In conclusion, while the quarterback battle at Alabama is far from settled, Ryan Grubb’s recent comments provide a compelling indication that Ty Simpson is making significant strides toward securing the starting role. His growth and development will be closely monitored as the Crimson Tide prepares for the challenges of the 2025 season.