NCAAF, Team News / Analysis, Player News / Analysis, Alabama Crimson Tide, A.J. McCarron
McCarron, who is preparing for his second BCS National Championship Game in as many years, made the announcement in a statement released by the university.
"I had many goals for myself when I came to the University of Alabama," McCarron said. "I have been lucky enough to achieve some of those goals, but some are still ahead of me. There were many factors in my decision to return to Alabama for my senior year but, after talking with my family and coaches, I knew it was the right choice for me.
"The NFL has long been a dream, but I think another year at Alabama can only help my chances of being successful at the next level."
McCarron currently leads the nation with a 173.1 passer rating and goes into the title game with 2,669 yards, 26 touchdowns and just three interceptions. He was recently named to both the coaches' and Associated Press' All-SEC second team and was selected to the AP's All-American third team.
It's remarkable what he's already accomplished as the Crimson Tide's signal caller -- racking up 22 wins to two losses as a starter -- but if he can lead his team past Notre Dame, there's the chance he can grab four national championship rings by graduation.
That is, of course, if Alabama is good enough to return to the title game for the fourth time in five seasons next year (which at this point I wouldn't put it past Nick Saban and Co.).
McCarron is the epitome of a field general and does an excellent job managing the game. He's very intelligent and does not turn the ball over.
However, he is a player of the system and isn't asked to make big plays very often. He lacks overall athletic ability and, as of right now, is likely a third-round prospect at best.
But his decision to stay another year will help him develop under NFL-level coaches, and a chance to prove he can put the team on his back when needed the most.
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12/15/12 |
Tyler_Waddell
|
293 respect
It's a story because he plays for Alabama and has a chance to come away with four rings.
12/14/12 | MortonsLaw | 125 respect
Is he really projected that high? I was thinking more like 5th round. I'm blown away that this is a story. Unless you're a first round pick should you come out early? I think he has issues with a lot of throws and tends to panic in those rare times when the line gets beat. I don't see him as anything more than a backup at the next level.
12/14/12 | NittanyJon | 231 respect
Very good idea. Alabama QB's tend to under-perform at the NFL level. He does manage the game well, though.