With Ryan Grubb as Alabama Crimson Tide OC, does Austin Mack have inside track to QB1?

Ryan Grubb’s Coaching Journey

Ryan Grubb’s coaching career is marked by a series of successful collaborations with head coach Kalen DeBoer. Their partnership began at the University of Sioux Falls in 2007, where Grubb served as the offensive line coach and run game coordinator. Over the years, Grubb and DeBoer worked together at Eastern Michigan, Fresno State, and Washington, developing a reputation for high-powered offenses. At Washington, Grubb’s offense averaged 37.8 points per game and 6.96 yards per play, with a notable emphasis on the passing game, accounting for 58.6% of plays over two seasons.

In 2024, Grubb transitioned to the NFL as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. However, his tenure was short-lived, as the team struggled offensively, averaging only 22.1 points and 332 yards per game, leading to his dismissal after one season.

Now, reunited with DeBoer at Alabama, Grubb aims to revitalize the Crimson Tide’s offense and continue his track record of collegiate success.

Austin Mack: The Prodigy

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 236 pounds, Austin Mack hails from Loomis, California. A four-star recruit, Mack was initially courted by Grubb and DeBoer at Washington. He reclassified from the 2024 to the 2023 recruiting class, spending his first year as a redshirt freshman while Washington made a run to the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Mack’s decision to transfer to Alabama in 2024 was influenced by his relationship with Grubb. Upon Grubb’s introduction to the Seattle media as the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator in February 2024, he remarked on his discussions with Mack and his parents about the possibility of not coaching him throughout his collegiate career. Grubb stated, “Austin’s unique in the sense that when I recruited Austin, talking to Brad and Lisa his parents, that he knew this was a possibility. Whether it was this year, next year, at some point, I told him that there’s a good chance that I wouldn’t get to see the end of his career. So I think honest conversations like that when you recruit kids help when transitions like this happen.”

The Quarterback Competition

With Milroe’s departure, Alabama’s quarterback room features three primary contenders:

1. Ty Simpson: A redshirt sophomore and former five-star recruit, Simpson has the most experience within the program, having served as Milroe’s backup. He is entering his fourth season at Alabama and will be working with his fourth offensive coordinator.
2. Austin Mack: Now in his second year at Alabama and third year under DeBoer’s offensive system, Mack’s familiarity with Grubb’s coaching style and play-calling could be advantageous.
3. Keelon Russell: A highly touted five-star freshman from Texas, Russell brings raw talent but lacks collegiate experience. His size, at 6-foot-3 and 175 pounds, raises concerns about durability at the SEC level.

Grubb’s Impact on the Competition

Grubb’s arrival at Alabama introduces a dynamic that could favor Mack in the quarterback competition. Their prior working relationship means Mack is already acquainted with Grubb’s offensive philosophy, terminology, and expectations. This familiarity can translate to a smoother transition and a deeper understanding of the playbook, potentially giving Mack an edge over his competitors.

Moreover, Grubb’s offensive schemes have historically emphasized a strong passing attack, which aligns with Mack’s skill set as a prototypical pocket passer with a powerful arm. This synergy could make Mack an ideal fit for Grubb’s system, further bolstering his case for the starting role.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these advantages, Mack’s path to QB1 is not without obstacles. Simpson’s tenure at Alabama provides him with an intimate knowledge of the program’s culture and expectations. His experience in high-pressure SEC environments cannot be understated.

Additionally, Russell’s athleticism and potential make him a formidable contender. If he can quickly adapt to the collegiate level and add necessary weight to his frame, he could emerge as a serious candidate for the starting position.

Conclusion

The hiring of Ryan Grubb as Alabama’s offensive coordinator undeniably influences the upcoming quarterback battle. Austin Mack’s existing rapport with Grubb and familiarity with his offensive system provide him with a distinct advantage. However, the competition remains open, with Ty Simpson’s experience and Keelon Russell’s potential posing significant challenges. As spring practices commence, it will be imperative for Mack to leverage his connection with Grubb and demonstrate his readiness to lead the Crimson Tide offense. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on performance, adaptability, and the ability to execute Grubb’s offensive vision.