Nick Saban knows Jalen Milroe has developed at every step throughout the 2023 season. As a result, Alabama has rolled into the College Football Playoff with Milroe starring in the SEC Championship Game.

In the win over Georgia, Milroe delivered 192 passing yards and 2 crucial touchdowns in the win. He also delivered some significant plays with his legs in the run game and helped seal the win on the final drive of the game.

During Sunday’s Rose Bowl teleconference, Saban was asked about his quarterback and the potential for Milroe to be named a Heisman Trophy finalist. The head coach admitted he hasn’t seen what some of the other players up for the honor bring to the table, but Milroe has been “fantastic” for the Crimson Tide.

A lot of that is related to Milroe’s progression as the season went along:

“Jalen has done a fantastic job for us. His transition and improvement as a player has certainly been a huge factor on the success of our team. I don’t get the opportunity to watch all these other guys on a consistent basis, so it’s not fair for me to make a comparison,” admitted Saban. “But from our team’s standpoint, he’s certainly a Heisman candidate in terms of what he’s done to help our team be successful.”

Voting for the Heisman Trophy concludes on Monday, and it’s fair to say Milroe is a longshot for this season’s honor. LSU QB Jayden Daniels continues to dominate the Heisman odds after a dynamic year with the Tigers, but Milroe is clicking and has a chance to lead Alabama to another national title.