Nick Saban jokes, then goes in-depth about what makes Alabama QB Bryce Young special

There’s no questioning the talent level of Alabama quarterback Bryce Young. The reigning Heisman put on a show last season and has started the sequel to that campaign strong in 2022. That’s why a media member’s question baffled Nick Saban after the Tide’s narrow win over Texas this weekend.

Someone asked Saban what makes Young such a special player following the 20-19 victory in Austin. Saban said if he could answer that question, he’d have a much better gig than what he has going down in Tuscaloosa.

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“Why is he so good?” said a perplexed Saban. “If I could actually tell you that, I don’t know if I’d be doing this. This is a pretty good job I’ve got, but I’d have a better one.”

Young was fantastic again in Alabama’s close call versus the Longhorns. He finished 27/39 for a 69.2% completion rate to produce 213 yards and a touchdown. It was Young’s clutch play down the stretch that put the Tide in position to kick the winning field goal.

As many have said before, it’s not just the ability that makes Young so special. He has plenty of talent, but Saban says he’s cerebral in how he prepares and how he organizes the offense on game day.

“(Bryce) studies. He prepares well for the game and he understands exactly what the defense is in and what they’re going to do,” said Saban. “He understands protections and knows how to protect himself, knows when he’s got to throw the ball hot. Athletic enough to extend plays or make plays and he’s accurate throwing the ball. He’s very, very instinctive. He plays quarterback like a point guard in basketball.”

There’s little question of how great Young can be as a player and prospect. He has proven he’s just the latest great quarterback product to come out of the Crimson Tide program. Young has already earned several individual accolades thus far in his career, most notably the sport’s most well-known trophy. If things continue as planned, though, Nick Saban has a QB who can help his team win the ultimate prize yet again.

“He’s just got talent, but he doesn’t just play with his talent. He’s very well prepared and knows exactly what the game plan is and what he needs to do to execute it.”