Ty Simpson consulting Nick Saban on how to handle pressure as Alabama QB

Alabama redshirt junior Ty Simpson was officially named the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback heading into the 2025 season, signaling a change of guard at the position. Simpson has been a staple of the program for three seasons, but waited his turn and it has now paid off.

Simpson revealed on Tuesday that former head coach Nick Saban played a major part in him deciding to continue his collegiate career at Alabama and he’s been giving him pointers ahead of the season opener against Florida State. The decision to stay in Tuscaloosa was a good one, as Simpson has now been given the keys to once of college football’s biggest brands.

“I talked to coach Saban here recently and was like ‘what do I need to tell myself going into a game like this on just how to not get so anxious and not making it bigger than what it is,” Simpson said. “He was just like ‘hey, play within yourself. Make sure that you keep your team out of negative plays and negative drives. He always said that if you end a drive with a punt, a kick, a PAT or a field goal, then you’re in good shape and not dead in the water. I’m just taking that approach and just making sure like ‘hey, Im gonna make sure I march down the field and do everything I can to go forwards and not backwards.”

Simpson is very excited for big opportunity at Florida State

“I woke up this morning and was like man it’s really here. It’s game week. It’s something I’ve prepared for and wanted for a long time. Like I said, at Florida State against what is a great program. I think about it before I take the field. I take the approach of before I step on the field taking a second to pray and be like ‘hey, He’s with me in whatever situation happens.’ He’s gonna be beside me and I’m excited for it.”

Simpson has played in 16 games over three seasons, where he’s completed 29 of his 50 passes for 381 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. He was a five-star recruit (ranked No. 25 overall in his class) coming out of Westview (Martin, TN) in 2022 and is now the main-man in Tuscaloosa.

“He means a lot to me,” Simpson said about Saban. “I Wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for his guidance and everything he’s done for me.”

Alabama opens its 2025 season on the road at Florida State on Aug. 30. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM on ABC.