Ex-Bama QB’s father offers Hurts’ dad advice
Averion Hurts put himself in the spotlight last week when he declared, among other things, his son, Jalen, would “be the biggest free agent in college football history” if he doesn’t win the Alabama starting quarterback job, during an interview with Bleacher Report’s Matt Hayes.
If anyone knows what it’s like to be the father of a high-profile Alabama quarterback, it’s Tony McCarron. His son, AJ, is considered one of the most recognizable quarterbacks in team history. That’s why his input on the potential Hurts transfer situation should be given credibility.
During an interview with Mark Heim and Lee Shirvanian on “The Opening Kickoff ” on WNSP-FM 105.5, the elder McCarron gave his opinion on the situation.
“Reverse the roles,” McCarron responded when asked if Averion Hurts went too far. “Put those people in a situation where you feel like their kids are — not necessarily wronged — maybe doesn’t have the opportunity they want him to have.”
Not only does McCarron have experience having a son in the spotlight at a major powerhouse like Alabama, he also has experience dealing with his son in a quarterback battle. Before the younger McCarron became the starter following Week 1 of the 2011 season, he was in a heated competition with former high school phenom Phillip Sims.
McCarron’s father also revealed he had a meeting with Saban once.
“Personally, even though I think it was the right thing to do, I was still very hesitant in doing that because it wasn’t my life,” he responded during the interview. “It was about how the competition was being handled. There were factors in play that I wasn’t 100 percent sure was on level. All I asked was: Is this level or is that the way it’s going to be done? He assured me [it was level].”
The hosts followed up with asking Tony McCarron if he had any advice for Averion Hurts. His response?
“If he asked me for advice, keep your private business private.”