Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe put himself squarely in the Heisman Trophy conversation with a standout performance in a thrilling 41-34 victory over No. 2 Georgia. Milroe accounted for four total touchdowns and an impressive 491 yards, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities and leading the Crimson Tide to a significant upset.
In this electrifying game, Milroe threw for 374 yards with two passing touchdowns and added another 117 yards rushing, including two rushing touchdowns. Notably, he became the first player in AP Poll history to achieve 300 yards passing, 100 yards rushing, and two rushing touchdowns against a top-five opponent. “He was exceptional,” remarked Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer following the game.
Despite Alabama building a commanding 28-point lead, Georgia fought back to take a late-game lead, but Milroe answered the call. With just over two minutes left, he connected with freshman sensation Ryan Williams on a crucial 75-yard touchdown pass, restoring Alabama’s lead at 41-34 after a successful two-point conversion. “He put the ball where he needed to,” DeBoer said, highlighting Milroe’s growth as a passer.
HE IS HIM.🤫@Ryanwms1
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— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) September 29, 2024
Milroe’s completion percentage also stood out, as he completed 27 of 33 passes for an impressive 82% completion rate, the second-highest of his career despite having his most attempts in a game to date. His chemistry with Williams has flourished, leading to five touchdowns in just four games. Williams noted their connection, stating, “He knows that four plus two equals six,” emphasizing how instinctively they work together on the field.
The Georgia defense, known for its elite status under head coach Kirby Smart, had not allowed a touchdown all season prior to facing Milroe. The Alabama quarterback demonstrated his ability to execute under pressure, especially during the game’s opening drive, where he scored the first of his four touchdowns. Smart acknowledged Milroe’s performance, saying, “He ran around us,” and admitted that even with the best defensive strategies, Milroe’s versatility made him hard to contain.
👀👀👀@JalenMilroe
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— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) September 29, 2024
Alabama offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan crafted a masterful game plan that allowed Milroe to thrive, as the Tide scored on their first four possessions, jumping out to a 28-0 lead. While the offense faced challenges during the middle of the game, Milroe stepped up when it mattered most, demonstrating his resilience and leadership.
After the game, Milroe maintained his humility, crediting his coaching staff and teammates for their support. “I have a great coaching staff that believes in me. I have teammates that believe in me, and that’s all that matters,” he said. Milroe is now on pace for an astonishing 72 total touchdowns this season, having consistently achieved at least two passing and two rushing touchdowns in each game so far.
— Katie Windham (@katiewindham_) September 29, 2024
With his standout performance against Georgia, Milroe has proven that he is taking significant strides in his development, making him a strong contender for the Heisman Trophy. Having finished sixth in Heisman voting last season, he could be poised to return to New York City this December. “He took the next step,” DeBoer emphasized, noting Milroe’s ability to throw receivers open and the growing anticipation among the receiving corps. If Milroe and the Crimson Tide continue this trajectory, they will not only be a formidable force in college football but also a mainstay in the Heisman conversation.
