Who Alabama is using to simulate QB Chad Kelly in practice
By Kevin Duffey
Published:
Nick Saban is the master motivator, and he’s the master planner and preparer.
So, Saban has no doubt been on his game for the last couple weeks putting the plan together to face Ole Miss’ explosive offense, headlined by QB Chad Kelly.
When Kelly has time, he’s one of the most dangerous signal callers in the country — dangerous because he’s fearless and can make every throw on the field. Defenses have to be well aware of what’s going on during every play, or Kelly can burn them in a hurry.
And this week in practice, it’s not just been one scout team QB simulating Chad Kelly; it’s been all three pocket-passing backups: David Cornwell, Cooper Bateman and Blake Barnett. Dual-threat freshman Jalen Hurts, obviously, is the Crimson Tide’s starter at the position. It’s one thing to plan for Kelly; it’s another to plan for the pace of the Rebels’ offense, and that’s something that has given Saban fits in recent history.
During his Thursday night radio show, Saban bragged on all three QBs and the scout team this week preparing for Ole Miss. Scout team players are often overlooked because they take a backseat to the starters, but it’s always nice to hear coaches tip their caps to the scout team.
Saban on scout team this week: "Our scout team has done as good as it's ever done."
Said Cornwell, Bateman & Barnett worked scout team QB.— Alex Byington (@_AlexByington) September 16, 2016
A graduate of the University of Florida and founder of Saturday Down South, Kevin is a college football enthusiast.
