Tua Tagovailoa to Alabama: Crimson Tide Land 4-Star QB Prospect

Finding a quarterback is the goal for every football team, so head coach Nick Saban is thrilled that Tua Tagovailoa announced his commitment to the Alabama Crimson Tide on KHON2 News on Monday night.

“I chose Alabama first and foremost because they put God first,” Tagovailoa said, per Ryan Bartow of 247Sports. “Alabama has Southern hospitality just like Hawaii. Plus I love the atmosphere there. I can see myself there.”

Another reason for Coach Saban to be ecstatic about landing Tagovailoa is because he possesses unique abilities as a dual-threat quarterback. 

According to 247Sports' composite rankings, Tagovailoa is the top-ranked player from the state of Hawaii, the No. 2 dual-threat quarterback and the 58th-best player overall in the 2017 class, amounting to his 4-star prospect rating. 

Football is a game built on throwing from the pocket, but there's been a slight shift to incorporate more running and athleticism under center. Cam Newton won the NFL MVP award for the 2015 season—five years after winning the Heisman Trophy.

Running quarterbacks have always been more prevalent in the college game, though that's hardly all Tagovailoa is capable of doing:

There are certain areas where Tagovailoa is lacking—notably his small stature at 6'1", 210 pounds—but ESPN's Recruiting Nation scouting report noted he has enough arm talent to overcome his diminutive size: "Legit dual-threat quarterback who is a passer first. Comfortable from under center or the shotgun. Confident in the pocket—can get rid of it quickly or scan the field." 

Being able to stand in the pocket and make throws, even when the pressure is bearing down, is atop the list of things a quarterback must do. Tagovailoa is already skilled in that area and will only get better with a college coaching staff.

Combine that with his ability to move out of the pocket, and Tagovailoa could be a superstar in the making. He's going to need time to hone his skills before reaching that ceiling. When he does, though, the college football community will be on high alert.