Saban: Alabama could lean on 2-QB system in 2018

Alabama could rely on both Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa next season as the Crimson Tide attempt to successfully defend their national championship.

"The most important thing is to play the best guy, and if both guys can play winning football, it's not out of the question that we'll find a role for both guys in fairness to both guys," head coach Nick Saban told ESPN's Chris Low. "I don't know that there's any more to it than that."

Hurts, who'll return in 2018 as a junior, started every game for Alabama last year, but was yanked in the championship game in favor of Tagovailoa. The latter led the Tide on an epic comeback versus Georgia, throwing the game-winning touchdown in overtime to cap his freshman campaign.

"All I've told both players is that they're both going to have the opportunity to compete, and that's all any competitor ever wants," added Saban. "We've won with both, and the kids on our team respect both guys."

Hurts struggled with his downfield throwing last season but committed just one interception, giving Saban the low-risk play he typically desires at quarterback. Tagovailoa, a former five-star recruit, is the more dynamic thrower, but could be prone to more mistakes in a full-time role.

"We're always looking to create competition on the practice field," said Saban. "And it shouldn't be any different at quarterback."

Many expected Hurts to transfer after he was benched in the title contest, but that didn't happen. Alabama will open the 2018 slate Sept. 1 against Louisville.