Saban Praises Hurts After Alabama Quarterback Switch

Former Alabama coach Nick Saban discussed his 2018 College Football Playoff title game quarterback decision involving Jalen Hurts after ESPN released a docuseries on his career. The switch to Tua Tagovailoa helped Alabama defeat Georgia 26-23 in overtime.

According to Bleacher Report and The Big Lead, Saban appeared on College GameDay and revisited the halftime change after Alabama trailed Georgia 13-0. Tagovailoa threw a 41-yard overtime touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith for the victory.

Saban said the decision to replace Hurts was among the hardest choices of his coaching career, while Hurts remained with Alabama before later transferring to Oklahoma. Hurts eventually won a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles.

"One of the most difficult decisions I ever had to make as a coach." Saban said during his College GameDay appearance.

Saban also highlighted how Hurts responded after losing his starting role to Tagovailoa. The former quarterback stayed with Alabama and later helped the team after Tagovailoa suffered an injury.

"Managed and handled the adversity and the difficult circumstance that he was put in." Saban said while discussing Hurts' response.

Saban said Hurts' handling of the situation shaped his later career and credited his character for his NFL achievements.

"This guy's character in that situation has been understated, and I think people should recognize how much character he really has, and that's what has propelled him to be a great player in the NFL and winning a Super Bowl." Saban said.

The coach continued explaining that the setback became part of Hurts' development. Hurts finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up with Oklahoma before becoming a key player for the Eagles.

"I think people should recognize how much character he really has and that is what has propelled him to be a great player in the NFL and winning a Super Bowl." Saban said.

Saban added that the difficult moment ultimately contributed to Hurts' growth as a player.

"It actually made him better. So sometimes, when bad things happen, it makes you better." Saban said.

Hurts also appeared in ESPN's six-part Saban documentary. According to Sports Yahoo, he sent Saban flowers and a handwritten message before the documentary premiere.

"Coach Saban, thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your story." Hurts wrote in the message.