Coach Spotlight: AJ McCarron

During his senior season at St. Paul's Episcopal School in Mobile, the school's preeminent passer, A.J. McCarron, "continued to break his own records," said his head coach, Mike Bates. In a high school career which includes a 5A state championship in his junior year, McCarron threw for 70 touchdown passes with only eight interceptions.

"He didn't quite have the same supporting cast as he did last year, but still put up big numbers and added to his accomplishments," said Mike Bates.

A.J. McCarron completed close to 61-percent of his 187 passes in 2008 for 1,560 yards. He had 15 touchdown passes and was only picked off twice. When called upon he also carried the ball 38 times for 187 yards.

"He put up some impressive numbers, but AJ's such a team guy. When he's out there on the field it's not all about AJ He a very competitive player, and despite being viewed by many as the team's "star" AJ just goes out and does his job," coach Bates said proudly.

As Crimson Tide former quarterback John Parker Wilson departed after his senior season, the expected battle for the position in 2009 is likely between Star Jackson and Greg McElroy in spring practice.

However, anticipate McCarron putting in a strong challenge when he arrives in Tuscaloosa in the summer.

"AJ's extremely coachable. He's a real student of the game, and has a very good understanding of the game. With his leadership qualities and competitiveness he gave us a chance to win every ball game," Bates said.

"I think he'll continue to improve his overall game, and see him being a great college player. I don't see how he wouldn't be."

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