Overview

• DeBoer informed the team on August 11 that Simpson will start at quarterback when Alabama opens at Florida State on August 30 in Tallahassee.
• Simpson secured the job by matching DeBoer’s 65% completion-rate goal and displaying consistent ball protection during fall scrimmages.
• The decision followed DeBoer’s timeline to name a starter by the end of the second scrimmage and highlighted Simpson’s strong situational play and timing.
• Redshirt sophomore Austin Mack will serve as Simpson’s primary backup while true freshman Keelon Russell continues to develop under offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb.
• Simpson steps into the role after three seasons as a backup and will lead an offense aiming to return Alabama to College Football Playoff contention.