Tracking Mac Jones’ performance in the Rose Bowl vs. Notre Dame

The Alabama Crimson Tide face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2021 Rose Bowl. Quarterback Mac Jones closes out a potential Heisman Trophy campaign with a chance to advance Alabama to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. We’ll be tracking his performance in the Rose Bowl.

Jones was one of the most successful quarterbacks in America in 2020, finishing the regular season with 3,739 yards and 32 touchdowns against just four interceptions. With a 76.5% completion rate, he guided one of the most lethal offenses in college football this season.

Final

Mac Jones finished 25-30 for 297 yards and four touchdowns, while also having six carries for 18 yards. If he does win the Heisman it would be a bit of an upset, but he would certainly be a worthy winner after his regular season and performance today.

After third quarter

It’s all over but the trophy presentation. Jones is 22-26 for 283 yards and four touchdowns, as well as having four carries for 20 yards scrambling. He’s played terrific today, and deserves his Heisman candidacy.

Update: 4:58 third quarter

Jones throws for his fourth touchdown of the day, and is 20-23 for 258 yards. But to be fair, when you’re throwing to DeVonta Smith... a lot of quarterbacks could do this.

Update: After second quarter

Smith continues to look like the best player on the field, unless it’s his teammate Najee Harris. Smith is five catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns through 30 minutes of football, but lost five yards on an end-around attempt. Obviously ‘Bama should cut him before the national championship game for such an offense.

Update: 8:49 second quarter

Mac Jones throws for another TD, this time to DeVonta Smith on a stem-slant for the too easy TD. But Smith went to the injury tent after this score, and we’ll see if he returns.

Update: After first quarter

Jones finished the first quarter 8-9 for 97 yards and two passing touchdowns. He’s been under about zero pressure, and his skill players are making all the plays. His stats could be ridiculous by the time he comes out of this game.

Update: 10:14 first quarter

The first touchdown of the game was Jones to DeVonta Smith for 26 yards on an RPO, and check out the outstanding blocking from John Metchie III.