Where does Alabama go after injury to Tua Tagovailoa?

Tua Tagovailoa suffered a season ending injury that left everyone with one big question on their mind: Where does Alabama go from here? 

On Saturday, Alabama’s star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a season ending injury that left players, coaches, and fans with one big question on their mind: Where does Alabama go from here? 

After Tagovailoa suffered a high ankle sprain a little over three weeks ago during the Tennessee game, the same question was asked, but everyone knew the answer was temporary, since Tagovailoa would be returning to play two weeks later against LSU. But this time, it’s different. Although Tua is expected to make a full recovery, he’s out for the rest of the season, so this time, the answer to the question affects the rest of the season.

Nov 16, 2019; Starkville, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (13) is carted off the field due to an injury during the second quarter of the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium. Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

It affects whether or not the Crimson Tide even has a chance to win the rest of their regular season games for a chance at the CFB Playoff. Whoever takes over as QB1 the rest of the season for Alabama won’t just be playing for one game, they’ll be playing at least two. And if Alabama makes it to the CFB playoff, they’ll be leading the Tide through the playoffs as well. So, with all that being said, let’s dive deep into the question: Who will be the new QB1 for the Crimson Tide, and where does Alabama go from here? 

When Tua Tagovailoa left the Tennessee game, we saw backup quarterback Mac Jones come into the game and throw 6 completions for 72 yards. The following week against Arkansas though, Jones impressed the nation with his ability to lead the team down the field, settle into the running game, throw consistent short passes, and also throw deep bombs when needed. He finished the Arkansas game completing 18-22 passes for 235 yards and 3 TDs. Fans left the game knowing that Mac Jones was more than capable at quarterback when he was needed. But when Tagovailoa went down, everyone knew this time was different, including Mac Jones.

Jones, who will more than likely be the starting quarterback for the rest of the season, has to step up more than ever before. Tua Tagovailoa’s younger brother Taulia will lose his redshirt as he will be backup for Jones, and will probably see action during the next two games. 

But it’s not just who will be the new starting quarterback that’s important to note, it’s how the offense and gameplay will change. When Jones started against Arkansas, it gave the running game a chance to develop. Najee Harris had 13 carried for 86 yards and 2TDs, while Brian Robinson Jr. finished the Arkansas game with also 13 carries for 67 yards. Alabama will have to settle into the running game more over the next two weeks. 

Mac Jones will also have to shift from being just a game manager to a game changer. His role in the Arkansas game was to play safe and smart. But now, he will have to add bold to the list of adjectives. Jones will need to take big shots downfield, considering the receiving group he has around him. If Mac Jones can help the offense settle into the running game while also being smart and taking big shots downfield like he did against Arkansas when he threw a perfect 40 yard bullet to Jerry Jeudy, Alabama has a chance to finish the season the way they started. 

Nov 16, 2019; Starkville, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Mac Jones (10) looks to make a pass against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the third quarter at Davis Wade Stadium.  Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

So, where does Alabama go? 

They go back to the basics. 

The offense will work on settling into the running game, Mac Jones will work on his footwork and consistency, and he works on his ability to hit the open man downfield. 

The defense will work on tackling, and not busting coverage. 

Leaders on both sides of the ball will step up, show up, and show out, and make big plays. 

Alabama may have lost their star quarterback, but they didn’t lose the heart, passion, and goal they’ve all shared together since the season started.

And honestly, Alabama will be playing their hearts out for two reasons. One is of course the chance at another playoff berth. But secondly, and most importantly, they’re playing for Tua. The guy who literally put his body on the line for his team. The guy who has now suffered four injuries while at Alabama. The guy who has led them this far. 

Don’t count Alabama out just yet. 

They aren’t stopping here. 

The starting quarterback may be different for the Crimson Tide on Saturday, but the heart of this team still beats the same, and that’s what this team will rely on to win. 

As Nick Saban once said,

“One thing about championship teams is that they’re resilient. No matter what is thrown at them, no matter how deep the hole, they find a way to bounce back and overcome adversity.”

And that’s exactly what this team is going to do.

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