Paul Finebaum: Ryan Grubb is the 'main reason' for Alabama's impressive turnaround

After a Week 1 loss, Alabama has been flawless ever since. The Crimson Tide’s transformation under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer has become one of the top stories in college football, and they don’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

ESPN analysts Paul Finebaum and Jordan Rodgers believe the resurgence has everything to do with offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb and the rapid growth of quarterback Ty Simpson. First, Finebaum stated his belief that Alabama has evolved into the team to beat in the SEC, and their offensive coordinator is the difference maker as to why.

“Absolutely yes,” Finebaum stated, when asked if Alabama now holds that title via Get Up on Wednesday morning. “Eight weeks ago, there was talk about, ‘What are we going to do with Kalen DeBoer’s buyout?’ Right now, he has done one of the most phenomenal turnaround jobs I have ever seen in college football.

“It’s really about Ty Simpson. The defense is still playing at a high level, but he has so many weapons, and he has just brought a calmness and a coolness to this team. And the main reason I think they are winning more this year than last is Ryan Grubb. He originally signed with DeBoer last year, then decided to go to Seattle. He’s back now, and he is the difference in this football team.”

In response, Rodgers echoed Finebaum’s praise, going even further in his assessment of Simpson. The former Vanderbilt quarterback and current ESPN analyst believes the Alabama signal-caller is the best in the country, and the future is brighter than ever for him.

“He absolutely is,” Rodgers said, regarding whether Simpson is the top quarterback in the nation. “I’ve talked about how good he is outside the pocket creating, I’ve talked about how good he is between the ears. This is what I love, his ability to manipulate the pace and trajectory of the football.

“… Do not get arm talent confused with arm strength. He does a great job, with ease, of manipulating the trajectory and pace of the football. Other guys can do it, but the consistency and accuracy that he does it with is something special.”

Alas, Simpson’s numbers back up Rodgers’ praise. The quarterback has thrown for 18 touchdowns to just one interception this season, all while guiding Alabama to an undefeated run since that opening-week loss.

Looking ahead, The Crimson Tide will look to keep their momentum rolling this weekend when they face South Carolina. Simpson will be trying to continue putting together impressive tape, while Grubb will hope to guide the offense to immense success once again.