And, in other news, water remains wet and the sky is still blue.
Anyway, and for those concerned that the impossible may indeed happen, Alabama announced Wednesday that AJ McCarron will return in 2013 for his senior season. It had been widely expected that would be the course of action taken by McCarron, but the quarterback’s announcement put to rest any doubt as to his immediate football future.
“I had many goals for myself when I came to the University of Alabama,” McCarron said in a statement. “I have been lucky enough to achieve some of those goals, but some are still ahead of me. There were many factors in my decision to return to Alabama for my senior year but, after talking with my family and coaches, I knew it was the right choice for me.
“I love the University of Alabama, my coaches, my teammates and our fans. I am excited to have the opportunity to play with my brother (sophomore tight end Corey McCarron), continue to grow as a leader, continue to help our team win football games and develop even further as a quarterback. The NFL has long been a dream, but I think another year at Alabama can only help my chances of being successful at the next level.”
McCarron is in his second season as the Tide’s starter, having already won one BCS title and gunning for a second straight in early January against Notre Dame. The Tide has won 24 of the 26 games in which he has started, a winning percentage of .923 that is second in school history.
McCarron currently leads the country in passing efficiency, throwing just three interceptions in 286 attempts versus a school-record 26 touchdown passes.
Suffice to say, head coach Nick Saban is “pleased” to have his veteran signal-caller returning for one more season in Tuscaloosa.
“We are pleased that AJ has decided to return for his senior year next season,” Alabama Saban said. “He’s done a great job for us and has really grown, not only as a quarterback and a player, but as a leader of our team. Like I’ve said before, we want to help our players make sound decisions when it comes to what is best for their future. Our goal at Alabama is to help our guys develop a career off the field by graduating, become the best football players they can be during their time here, and try to win a championship while preparing them for the possibility of playing in the NFL.
“AJ has great support from his family and the people around him. He showed very good maturity in looking at all of the factors and making an informed decision on his future. He has a chance to add to what he has already accomplished here while also better preparing himself for the next level. We’re excited to have him back for his senior season