Saban actually picked Tua the starter before the first game this season. Kelly Bryant probably felt strung along because they had him be the starter and knew all along that they wanted to get to the point where Lawrence would start this season. Saban actually was more upfront this time than Dabo and company.
Saban made that decision after the National title game.
He kept it a "competition" all through spring,etc.
And still Saban said he was playing both at the beginning of the season going into the Louisville game. That is why he kept getting asked about it by reporters and he went off.
Saban had every reason to start Tua. He proved it, by winning a title in clutch situation.
Despite that, if you are trying to contend, you need as much depth as possible.
Ohio State won their National title with Urban Meyer using their 3rd string QB.
Saban worked Hurts' head. Just like Saban worked Pruitt and Smart into staying through the season despite being hired as head coaches by Bama's competition (Tenn and UGA).
Lawrence is a golden boy. Dabo wanted him to be the starter all along. Kelly knows that. Lawrence didn't have a National title under his belt though.
![mjpls :mjpls: :mjpls:](https://www.thecoli.com/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/5I5s8.png)