Alabama narrows quarterback race down to two

Despite rumors to the contrary, Alabama has narrowed its starting quarterback race down to two and true freshman Jalen Hurts is not among the finalists.

During his Monday media availability, Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban revealed redshirt junior Cooper Bateman and redshirt freshman Blake Barnett as the two finalists to open the season as Alabama’s starting quarterback.

Saban says Alabama has narrowed QB candidates to Cooper Bateman and Blake Barnett.

— John Zenor (@jzenor) August 29, 2016

Saban: Blake's been here a little longer. He has a little better knowledge of the offense. He's gotten bigger and stronger.

— Aaron Suttles (@AaronSuttles) August 29, 2016

Bateman took limited snaps for Alabama last season, the first game action of his college career, and completed 37 of 52 passes for 291 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

Despite eliminating Hurts from starting contention to open the season, Saban threw some praise toward his youngest quarterback and did not rule out the possibility of playing him this season.

Saban: "Jalen Hurts has tremendous ability. We are not giving up on that ability." Says he hopes Hurts can be a productive player this year.

— Ben Jones (@BW_Jones) August 29, 2016

Alabama opens the season against USC Saturday, Sept. 3 at 8:00 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.