Ryan Grubb told Ryan Fowler that if Alabama played today, Ty Simpson would be the starting quarterback without hesitation.

In the ever-intense world of college football, the quarterback position often shapes the fate of a team’s season. For powerhouse programs like Alabama, with a legacy of legendary signal-callers, the stakes are especially high. Recently, Ryan Grubb, Alabama’s offensive coordinator, made a clear and confident statement to analyst Ryan Fowler: if Alabama had to take the field today, Ty Simpson would be the starting quarterback.

This declaration is significant not only because it sheds light on Alabama’s quarterback competition but also because it highlights the coaching staff’s confidence in Simpson’s readiness to lead the Crimson Tide. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the background of Ty Simpson, the current quarterback landscape at Alabama, what Ryan Grubb’s statement means for the team’s future, and the broader implications for the 2025 college football season.

Who is Ty Simpson?

Ty Simpson is a highly touted quarterback recruit who has been on the radar of college football fans and analysts since his high school days. Coming out of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, Simpson was one of the top-ranked quarterback prospects in the nation. His combination of arm strength, accuracy, and football IQ made him a coveted target for major programs, and ultimately, he committed to Alabama — a school renowned for developing NFL-caliber quarterbacks.

Simpson’s skill set includes a strong pocket presence, quick decision-making, and the ability to extend plays with his mobility. His high school tape showcased a player capable of delivering precise throws at all levels of the field, reading defenses effectively, and demonstrating leadership qualities — traits that have translated well as he transitioned into the collegiate game.

Alabama’s Quarterback Situation: A Competitive Landscape

Alabama has long been known for its deep quarterback room and fierce internal competition. Over the years, the program has produced NFL stars like Joe Burrow, Tua Tagovailoa, and Bryce Young, setting the standard high for any player who steps onto the field.

Coming into the 2025 season, Alabama’s quarterback situation remains dynamic. The coaching staff has been evaluating multiple candidates during spring and summer practices, looking for consistency, leadership, and the ability to execute the complex offensive schemes that head coach Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb demand.

Ryan Grubb’s recent statement to Ryan Fowler that Ty Simpson would be the starter “if Alabama had to play today” is a strong indication of where Simpson stands in this competition. It suggests that, at this moment, Simpson has earned the trust of the coaching staff through his preparation, understanding of the offense, and on-field performance during practice sessions.

Ryan Grubb’s Perspective: Confidence and Clarity

Ryan Grubb is a respected offensive mind, known for tailoring game plans that maximize his quarterback’s strengths. His willingness to name Simpson as the hypothetical starter signals a level of confidence in Simpson’s readiness that is crucial in a high-pressure environment like Alabama.

This endorsement from Grubb does more than just answer a hypothetical question; it sends a message to the team, the fanbase, and potential recruits. It means the coaching staff believes Simpson has the maturity, skill, and poise to lead the Crimson Tide effectively.

Grubb’s confidence likely stems from observing Simpson’s command of the playbook, his accuracy in practice, and his ability to make quick decisions under pressure. It also reflects the trust built through the offseason, where Simpson has presumably shown leadership qualities and a strong work ethic.

What This Means for Ty Simpson’s Development

Being named the starter in any capacity — even hypothetically — is a significant milestone in a young quarterback’s career. For Ty Simpson, this recognition can serve as both a confidence booster and a challenge to continue elevating his game.

The transition from a promising recruit to a college starter requires constant improvement, film study, physical conditioning, and mental toughness. Simpson’s path to the starting role will involve not only capitalizing on this endorsement but also continuing to compete against teammates and demonstrate consistent performance in games.

Simpson’s development is crucial for Alabama’s offense, which relies heavily on a quarterback’s ability to execute precision passing, manage the game clock, and maintain composure during high-stakes situations. His success will be pivotal to the Crimson Tide’s hopes of securing another SEC championship and making a College Football Playoff run.

The Quarterback Competition: Who Else is in the Mix?

While Simpson’s position is strong, Alabama’s quarterback competition is unlikely to be settled overnight. Other quarterbacks in the program bring their own strengths, experience, and potential, making for a competitive environment that pushes each player to improve.

This competition is healthy and beneficial for the team. It ensures that no player becomes complacent and that the coaching staff can evaluate who is truly the best fit for the offense as the season progresses.

For fans and analysts, watching this quarterback battle unfold adds intrigue and anticipation. It also highlights Alabama’s commitment to maintaining depth at this critical position, a key factor in their sustained success.

Implications for Alabama’s 2025 Season

Having a clear favorite at quarterback, as suggested by Ryan Grubb’s statement about Ty Simpson, can help stabilize Alabama’s offense. A confident and prepared quarterback can galvanize the team, create cohesion on offense, and improve execution under pressure.

Simpson’s leadership at quarterback can impact Alabama’s offensive identity — influencing play-calling, tempo, and the ability to adapt to in-game situations. His style of play may also affect how the team utilizes its receiving corps and running backs, shaping overall strategy.

Moreover, a stable quarterback situation provides advantages in recruiting. Prospective players often want to join programs where the coaching staff clearly defines roles and invests in player development. Simpson’s ascent sends a message that Alabama is ready to nurture and rely on its young talent.

Challenges Ahead: Expectations and Pressure

Despite the optimism surrounding Simpson, the road ahead will not be without challenges. Alabama’s football culture is synonymous with high expectations, and the pressure on quarterbacks is immense.

Simpson will need to prove himself in game situations, demonstrating that he can handle the speed and complexity of SEC defenses, make accurate throws, and maintain composure under intense pressure from fans, media, and opposing teams.

Injuries, unexpected game scenarios, and the weight of legacy can all test a young quarterback’s resilience. How Simpson navigates these challenges will define his tenure at Alabama and potentially his future career.

Ryan Grubb’s statement to Ryan Fowler that Ty Simpson would be the starter if Alabama had to play today shines a spotlight on a pivotal moment in the Crimson Tide’s quarterback development. It highlights the trust placed in Simpson and his readiness to step into a leadership role for one of college football’s premier programs.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Simpson to see how he handles this opportunity and whether he can fulfill the promise that made him a top recruit. His journey will be closely followed by fans, analysts, and NFL scouts alike.

Ultimately, this announcement underscores Alabama’s ongoing commitment to excellence and the continuous cycle of cultivating elite talent. For Ty Simpson, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter — one filled with potential, challenges, and the chance to etch his name into Alabama football history.