Mental Fortitude is the key to success for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, according to former Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban. As Simpson prepares for his first career start, Saban’s insights emphasize the importance of a “next play” mentality and avoiding outcome-oriented thinking in the high-pressure environment of college football. Saban’s recent comments, shared on “The Pat McAfee Show” and at a charity golf tournament, highlight the crucial role of mental resilience in Simpson’s development and his ability to lead the team effectively.
Ty Simpson’s Opportunity
Ty Simpson, a highly-touted five-star recruit from the 2022 class, has patiently waited for his opportunity to lead the Alabama offense. After three seasons as a backup, his commitment to the program has earned him immense respect, particularly from his former coach, Nick Saban. As noted by multiple sports outlets including CBSSports.com and Yardbarker, Simpson’s journey is increasingly rare in the era of the transfer portal, making his dedication even more noteworthy.
Saban’s Advice: The “Next Play” Mentality
Saban’s advice to Simpson centers on mental toughness and the ability to move past mistakes. During his appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Friday, August 29, 2025, Saban emphasized that many young players become too focused on statistics and immediate results. “There’s so many of these guys that grow up now being outcome-oriented,” Saban stated, according to Sportskeeda’s report. “They’re always looking at results. How many passes did I complete? How many touchdowns did I have? And then they create these expectations for themselves, and when they don’t live up to them, they get frustrated very easily, and that body language is not good for a quarterback. It’s not good for a team.”
The legendary coach underscored that the “big thing” Simpson has had to work through is to “not get affected by a bad play, stay focused on the next play.” This ability to maintain composure and focus, Saban believes, is critical for Simpson’s success. According to BVM Sports, Saban acknowledged Simpson’s innate talent, noting, “He’s got all the talent in the world. He’s got legs that are real. He’s a very accurate passer. He’s a good decision maker. He’s smart. He’s a good leader.” The challenge lies in maintaining consistency and performance without being swayed by the inevitable ups and downs of a game.
Seeking Guidance
The impact of Saban’s advice is already evident, as Simpson himself revealed that he sought out his former coach for guidance ahead of his debut. According to On3, Simpson asked Saban how to manage anxiety and avoid making the moment “bigger than what it is.” Saban’s counsel to “just play within yourself” and “keep your team out of negative plays and negative drives” resonates with the quarterback’s current preparation. Saban also advised that ending a drive with a punt, kick, or field goal means “you’re in good shape and you’re not dead in the water.”
The Importance of Mental Fortitude
As Simpson steps into the spotlight, aiming to lead the Crimson Tide offense under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer, his ability to internalize and execute Saban’s advice on mental resilience will be a key factor in his success. The emphasis on mental fortitude, as highlighted by Saban, extends beyond individual performance and impacts the entire team’s dynamic. A quarterback who remains composed under pressure can inspire confidence and maintain momentum, even in the face of adversity.
Saban’s insights underscore that physical talent alone is insufficient for success at the highest levels of college football. The mental game, including the ability to manage expectations, overcome setbacks, and maintain focus, is equally critical. By adopting a “next play” mentality, Simpson can minimize the impact of mistakes and maximize his potential to lead the Crimson Tide effectively.
Facing Florida State
Simpson’s first start against Florida State on Saturday will be a significant test of his ability to apply Saban’s teachings. The game represents a high-stakes opportunity for Simpson to demonstrate his readiness to lead the team. The guidance he received from Saban, particularly regarding managing anxiety and maintaining focus, will be invaluable as he navigates the pressures of his debut.
Ultimately, Ty Simpson’s success hinges on his ability to embrace mental fortitude, as emphasized by Nick Saban. By focusing on the “next play” and avoiding outcome-oriented thinking, Simpson can unlock his full potential and lead the Crimson Tide to victory. Saban’s wisdom provides a valuable framework for Simpson’s development and serves as a reminder that mental resilience is a cornerstone of success in college football.
