Fall camp winding down for Alabama, Auburn, and South Alabama

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - College football season is almost here — fall camps are wrapping up across the state as Alabama, Auburn, and South Alabama all prepare for their season openers next weekend.

In Tuscaloosa, all eyes are on first-year offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who brings his system from Washington to the Crimson Tide. Today, Grubb praised quarterback Ty Simpson for his performance in the Tide’s second scrimmage: his first after being named the starting QB.

“I thought he was very controlled. He distributed the ball right we’re it was supposed to be. I thought his eyes were in the right spot. I thought he was very disciplined. We’re trying to put him in some spots, in the fringe, and things like that to see how he’d respond, and make sure he takes care of the football, keeps us in field goal range, all those things. I thought he responded really, really well.”

Over on the Plains, Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze is focused on depth and consistency as the Tigers push through camp. We’ll have to see how the quarterback room shapes up. Freeze says he’s been encouraged by what he’s seen from Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold and freshman Deuce Knight — and don’t be surprised if both take snaps this fall.

“I’m pleased with both. I think that there’s a place for both depending on the scenario in the game. You know, without giving away too much, I think there’s a place for both of those guys that you can play to their strengths, and we won’t be afraid to do that.”

In Mobile, South Alabama is putting the finishing touches on its own camp. After finishing 7-6 last season, coach Major Applewhite and South Alabama are chasing their fourth straight winning season — and aiming to make it three bowl wins in a row. With just five returning starters on offense and three on defense, the door is wide open for fresh faces and young talent to step up this fall.

Three programs, three different storylines, but one thing in common — kickoff weekend can’t come soon enough.

Next Friday night, Auburn faces Baylor on the road. You can catch that game right here on FOX10. Kickoff is set for 7PM.

Then on Saturday, Alabama opens their season against Florida State in Tallahassee, and South Alabama will host Morgan State at Hancock Whitney.