NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Alabama coach Nick Saban changed his mind about quarterback AJ McCarron’s demeanor after the Tide’s first game this season against LSU.
McCarron says Saban told him to calm down after a victory over Florida, then did an about-face following Alabama’s 9-6 overtime loss to the Tigers.
The sophomore quarterback says he plays better when he’s emotional. He passed for 199 yards with an interception in the LSU loss.
Now, McCarron is gearing up for an even bigger game: the BCS title rematch. He said Thursday he actually gets more nervous playing underdogs who throw out all the stops.
McCarron has been the SEC’s second-most efficient passer, but his play has been overshadowed by tailback Trent Richardson and the nation’s top defense. Plus, he has seldom spoken to the media.
