Jalen Milroe is back in the race for the Heisman Trophy! Alabama’s quarterback is seen as the returning vote-getter for the prestigious award this year; fans favor him to be one of the coveted Heisman finalists. Coach Kalen DeBoer could be the new factor that propels Milroe to the top, even though quarterbacks like Carson Beck and Quinn Ewers are perceived as frontrunners.

DeBoer, known as an “offensive genius,” has a history of maximizing his quarterback’s potential. This makes On3 analyst J.D. Pickell confidently state, “Jalen Milroe is going to be a Heisman Trophy finalist this upcoming season at Alabama under Kalen DeBoer.”

On X, Pickell addressed the concerns about Milroe’s consistency in throwing the football. “The good news,” says Pickell, “is DeBoer specializes in scheming dudes open.” This will allow Milroe to find a rhythm in his passing game, something he struggled with last season. Pickell emphasizes, “It means…better opportunity to get in rhythm throwing football. How often did we see that last year? Not a lot.”

While DeBoer’s offense is known for passing, Pickell also believes it will maximize Milroe’s rushing ability. Here, he uses a humorous analogy: “Here’s the deal man, the Chefs in Italy do Pizza, the same way Kalen DeBoer does offensive football.” DeBoer will put Milroe “in position in space to make a lot of plays with his legs,” leading to “massive numbers on the ground.” Thus Pickell confidently declares, “Prepare to see Jalen Milroe in New York City” for the Heisman ceremony. 

Looks like Milroe could follow in the footsteps of Michael Penix Jr. who thrived his best under DeBoer. 

Will Jalen Milroe become another Heisman-worthy quarterback under DeBoer?

When Kalen DeBoer assumed control of Alabama following Nick Saban’s departure, concerns emerged regarding his capability to uphold the team’s championship legacy. But DeBoer brings a secret weapon – his offensive mastery. He’s a magician with quarterbacks, having transformed players like Fresno State’s Jake Haener and Washington’s Michael Penix Jr.

Penix Jr.’s case is particularly impressive. DeBoer, in fact, helped him become a top draft prospect. Their years together at Washington allowed Penix Jr. to master DeBoer’s innovative offense, leading him to a Heisman runner-up finish and a clutch win in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. This performance even made Penix Jr. a coveted first-round pick for a while.

Now, DeBoer could work his magic with Jalen Milroe. Milroe already boasts an impressive 23 touchdowns last season and a 6th-place finish in the Heisman race. With stars like Penix Jr. and Jayden Daniels leaving for the NFL, the path to Heisman glory seems clearer for Milroe. Now, all he needs is a strong performance this season.