Overview

• Head coach Kalen DeBoer informed Simpson, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell on August 11 that Simpson will open the season at Florida State on August 30
• Coaches highlighted Simpson’s loyalty and character for remaining at Alabama through three seasons as a reserve rather than transferring
• Simpson has completed 29 of 50 passes for 381 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in limited reserve duty and has shown strong ball security and playmaking in camp
• Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said the team is still evaluating Austin Mack and true freshman Keelon Russell for the No. 2 quarterback role
• Analysts caution that Simpson’s scarce game tape could become a vulnerability for Alabama’s College Football Playoff ambitions this season