It isn't a foreign idea for Alabama to be just days away from their season opener and still not know who the starter at quarterback will be. The Tide went through a very similar situation when AJ McCarron and Blake Sims were vying for the position in 2011. Most will remember who ended up winning the job as McCarron went on to win two national championships and come in second in Heisman voting.
This is where Bama finds itself once again as they seek to replace McCarron who has moved on to the NFL. There are two talented players in contention, Blake Sims and Jacob Coker, and it would seem they are neck and neck at the moment. While Saban has eluded to possible decisions in interviews, stating he believes Sims to be more comfortable in the offense due to the fact he was McCarrons's backup for two years, he still isn't ready to name a starter.
Where Sims may have been McCarron's backup, Coker comes from a similar situation himself. He lost a very intense competition for the job at Florida State last year. It seems unthinkable now that anyone could be considered for the starting position at FSU other than Heisman winner Jameis Winston but twelve months ago it came down to the wire between the two with Winston edging out Coker at the last minute. Once Coker realized it would be difficult to see the field at FSU from behind Winston he decided to move to another national contender in Alabama. By all accounts Coker has what it takes to get the job done but Saban remains cautious about his decision.
There is a good chance both players take some snaps this weekend against West Virginia. In the meantime Bama players seem to be unaffected by the questions at QB with those who commented simply putting their trust in the coaching staff's decision.
At the moment Alabama fans can only hope to come away Saturday not only with a win but with some questions answered at the quarterback position because it doesn't look like any are coming before then.