Despite his skepticism, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has the “last laugh.”

ANGELES: On Thursday, starting quarterback Jalen Milroe disclosed that he had previously received advice not to play quarterback from former Alabama offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien. In just a few days, Milroe will lead Alabama against Michigan in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal.

“How would you feel if I told you that you were bad?” Milroe talked about his experience hearing the remark from his former coordinator. “Take a look at where I am now and all the jobs he suggested I might have taken.” “Who has the last laugh?”

After O’Brien, who held the role for the previous two seasons, resigned to take a job as offensive coordinator with the NFL’s New England Patriots, Tommy Rees assumed the role this past offseason.

After experiencing difficulties early in the season, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has flourished as a thrower and runner under offensive coach Tommy Rees. In addition to running for 468 yards and 12 additional touchdowns, he has completed passes for 2,718 yards and 23 touchdowns.Sportswire/Jason Vest/Icon

Rees, a former college quarterback, has contributed to Milroe’s growth as one of the best quarterbacks in the league. After experiencing setbacks in the early part of the season, including being benched against South Florida, Milroe bounced back.

He eventually settled into a rhythm as a passer and runner, rushing for 468 yards and 12 more touchdowns and throwing for 2,718 yards and 23 more, which helped the Tide win 10 straight games, the SEC title, and a trip to the College Football Playoffs.

“You don’t assume I play quarterback when you look at me,” said Milroe. You think I play linebacker, defensive back, and tight end. You don’t think I play quarterback.

When it comes to his throwing prowess, Milroe finds immense joy in shattering stereotypes and proving that he is a proficient thrower in addition to a strong runner. As his confidence has grown, so too has Milroe’s belief that he can play the position well, even in the face of criticism from someone like O’Brien.

“They viewed me as a receiver or not playing quarterback when I went to camp growing up,” Milroe said. “I try to play quarterback as often as I can because it’s how I overcome all the obstacles.”

Even though he was aware of the unusual nature of his path to the position, Milroe said he never wavered in his desire and passion to be an SEC quarterback after committing to Alabama. Now that Milroe has a connection with Rees, a quarterback who has experienced highs and lows of his own, the two can communicate.

“This is the first time I’ve ever had an OC play the part,” Milroe said. “I think I’m particularly receptive to his teaching since he was a terrific athlete at Notre Dame.” Now that he is coaching the position, I can learn as much as I can from him. Everything is going OK so far.

About Milroe, Rees remarked, “He’s a very outstanding young man.” How he is able to endure in the face of difficulties and overcome hurdles.

The Alabama offense as a whole has united behind Milroe this season, applauding his development as a leader.

“To be honest, he’s looked like two different guys from the first game all the way up to now, but it’s the same person,” wide receiver Isaiah Bond said. On the football pitch, self-assurance is essential. If you don’t have confidence and belief in yourself, you won’t even be able to perform to your best ability. Therefore, the most crucial thing is to have faith in oneself, which he has done.