Nick Saban reveals how backup QBs Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson have fared with more practice opportunities

If Alabama doesn’t have Bryce Young back for this weekend, Nick Saban and company will have some fascinating options against Texas A&M.

Of course, Jalen Milroe came on in relief of the reigning Heisman winner last weekend against Arkansas, guiding the Crimson Tide to victory. After, there’s star recruit Ty Simpson waiting in the wings, who could perhaps get his shot if Milroe falters.

During Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference, Saban made sure to point out that Milroe “knows he’s going to play” against the Aggies, possibly tipping his hand before making sure to recognize his confidence in Simpson.

“Those guys are doing a really good job,” Saban said, speaking of his backup quarterbacks. “I think Jalen did a really good job in the game. Always a little better when you have a week to prepare the guy and he knows he’s going to play. He’s had a good week so far this week.

“Ty is a very talented guy, got a good understanding of the offense. We’re pretty confident in his as well. He’s a young player that’s certainly in the developmental stages. Showed a lot of promise and progress throughout the year.”

Regardless, Alabama will need to send Texas A&M packing with another loss to their resume, gaining a measure of revenge against the Aggies for last season. Whether it’s Bryce Young, Jalen Milroe or Ty Simpson under center, Nick Saban will want the Crimson Tide to find victory.

Paul Finebaum explains why Alabama could be in trouble without Bryce Young

One person is on the minds of everyone in Tuscaloosa — quarterback Bryce Young. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner suffered a shoulder injury against Arkansas and for now, his status for the Texas A&M game is unknown. Even further down the line, Young could be affected the what Nick Saban called an AC joint problem.

Due to Young’s status, ESPN’s Paul Finebaum said Alabama could be in trouble. Not because of the showdown against Texas A&M in Tuscaloosa but Finebaum was looking a week ahead. It will be the Third Saturday in October, which means Tennessee is on the schedule. Having Young back could be the difference for the Crimson Tide.

“I think it’s reasonable except for this reason,” Finebaum began. “Against Tennessee next week, he’s going to need to play and he’s going to need to play effectively. I’m not sure that’s possible. I don’t want to act like I have ever [played] quarterback in a stadium with 100,000 people but I have talked to people who have. You can shoot somebody up with an AC joint but it still hurts. It still effects your accuracy.”

“This week — come on,” said Finebaum. “They’re playing Texas A&M. That could be 100 to nothing. But next week is different at Neyland Stadium against Hendon Hooker and a high-flying Tennessee offense.”

Josh Heupel has built up one of the best offenses in the country behind Hooker, averaging 48.5 points per game through four contests. Even if Alabama is able to slow the Volunteers down, a quarterback such as Young will be needed to keep pace throughout four quarters.