Roll Tears Roll. That was the slander thrown at the Alabama Crimson Tide by USC. A simple t-shirt with a message that didn’t phase Nick Saban’s squad.
Believe it or not, the Tide went into this game with a lot of unanswered questions. Who would be the leader of a young defense? What kind of identity would this team have? Most importantly, who would be the quarterback?
The final question was answered by a freshman from Channelview, TX.
Jalen Hurts’ first play was less than memorable; a botched handoff that led to a fumble recovered by the Trojans. After that mishap, Hurts never looked back.
He showed the athleticism, leadership and instinct that made him a legend in the state of Texas, a place known for its high school football.
Hurts has redefined what it means to be an Alabama signal caller. No, he is not the first African-American quarterback to step on the field under Saban, but he is the the most unique player to ever lead this team.
Maybe it’s the fact that he is a true freshman. Or, perhaps it’s his long blond dreads, hanging like a lion’s mane, a beast that his game is modeled after, brave, fierce, and patient.
He methodically dissected a USC defense lead by one the top cornerbacks in the nation, Adoree Jackson. He was wise choosing not to throw towards Jackson. Instead he did what he does best: improvise.
Plays that seemed to go nowhere turned into seven yard scrambles that helped keep the offense alive. Short quarterback draws for scores in the red zone were reminiscent of Tim Tebow’s heroics at Florida, but his laser throws were similar to the arm strength displayed by greats like Peyton Manning.
His gunslinger mentality was an ode to Brett Favre. He threw an interception after gaining some confidence connecting with ArDarius Stewart for big gains and scores. It wasn’t the smartest play, but much like Favre, he showed his will to try and make a play.
Alabama Quarterback, Jalen Hurts (Photo by sportingnews.com)
Jalen Hurts is a mix of a lot of great attributes, but it’s the leadership he displayed that has set him apart from any Alabama quarterback. Hurts finished the game completing six out of his 11 passing attempts for 118 yards. He rushed nine times, for 32 yards. In total he scored four pivotal touchdowns.
Alabama fans gave him the admiration he deserved, and they have to be happy that they’ll have Hurts for at least three years (unless he decides to leave early for the NFL).
In comparison, Blake Barnett, who started the game, finished five for six, with 100 yards passing and a score. Take nothing away for Barnett; he is the only five-star quarterback on this roster. What he did on the field wasn’t enough to captivate an audience. He seemed timid at times, unsure in his ability; the total opposite of Hurts.
What Jalen Hurts represents is the changing landscape of college football. A new look Crimson Tide team that is going to be led by someone fans can finally relate to. He has everyone in his corner: Young, old, black, white and everything in between.
The kid from Channelview is lighting the college football world on fire, and doesn’t look to stop any time soon.
