Carson Beck and Jalen Milroe set to define their NFL Draft futures in Alabama vs Georgia Week 5 Matchup
When discussing the best games of the 2024 college football season, this weekend’s matchup that features Georgia (2) traveling to Alabama (4) was definitely on the short list. This game has a lot of relevance in how the SEC could potentially play out, as well as playoff seating in the end. There could be a […]
When discussing the best games of the 2024 college football season, this weekend’s matchup that features Georgia (2) traveling to Alabama (4) was definitely on the short list. This game has a lot of relevance in how the SEC could potentially play out, as well as playoff seating in the end. There could be a lot on the line.
Not only is this a matchup between two great teams, but both programs have a standout quarterback who has a ton of potential for the 2025 NFL Draft class. In one corner, we have Carson Beck (Georgia), and in the other is Jalen Milroe (Alabama).
They both play the quarterback position, but that’s where the comparisons end. This is going to be a huge game for both players for very different reasons. Each has a lot on the line.
How good is Jalen Milroe?
Heading into the 2023 season, nobody really knew what to expect out of Milroe as the full time starter for Alabama. Everyone knew he was an outstanding athlete but his passing upside was relatively unknown. Milroe showed a ton of growth throughout the season, which had everyone excited about this offseason with his ability to now work with new head coach Kalen DeBoer.
So far in the 2024 season, Milroe has been even better than expected. Through three games, Milroe has thrown for 590 yards and eight touchdowns. He did so while throwing zero interceptions so far, completing over 67 percent of his passes, and averaging 11.3 yards per attempt. Milroe has also rushed for 156 yards and another three scores on the ground.
The athleticism will always be there, but the passing did need to take a step forward. Milroe has always been a talented thrower, but we are starting to see him take a step forward as a passer. He has been throwing a higher level of anticipation, and putting the football on the money. That includes improvements in the short to intermediate game.
One thing that will always be a strength for Milroe is as a deep ball thrower. He has a slightly unconventional delivery but his arm strength allows him to touch the deepest levels of the field. For a team that wants a player who can threaten vertically, they are going to love the Alabama signal caller. He is very natural at throwing the ball with touch.
If Milroe can continue to show this progress, ascending to near the top of the 2025 NFL Draft quarterback class isn’t out of the question. The upside has always been there, and it is starting to actualize. This is a resume building opportunity.
Should we be concerned with Carson Beck?
Coming into the season, a lot of NFL Draft pundits and evaluators in the Twitter space had Beck as their top ranked quarterback, but it almost felt like it was by default. He’s a good prospect without question, but there is a massive question about his ceiling. So far in 2024, that stigma remains.
In three games, Beck has thrown for 680 yards and seven touchdowns, while completing over 68 percent of his passes. The major issue is lack of explosive plays. Beck has only managed to average 8.3 yards per attempt so far, which is over a yard lower than last season.
He also struggled mightily against Kentucky in their most recent outing, throwing for just 160 yards and completing 62.5 percent of his passes. It was an underwhelming day from that passing attack, and there should be some worry over his consistent ability to push the ball down the field. That’s an opportunity for this game on Saturday.
Beck has the chance to play against a talented Alabama squad, which should give him an opportunity to make plays against a defense that has a lot of NFL talent. Many view Beck as a high floor prospect with a limited ceiling. Making explosive plays against his type of team can help change that narrative.
The battle
When the 2025 NFL Draft begins in April, there’s a chance that both Beck and Milroe could be selected right near the top. When we look back on the trajectory of these two prospects, this could be a game that is weighed heavily. Each quarterback will be facing arguably the best defense they will see all year, and NFL scouts will value it heavily.
The narrative around each prospect coming into this game is very real. That includes the lack of ceiling for Beck, and limited floor with Milroe. Can each change it this weekend? Only game time will tell.
