Getty Image / Joel auerbach
The reveal of the guest picker is one of the best parts about your favorite team hosting ESPN’s “College GameDay”. And, Alabama fans must be thrilled, as it’s been revealed that Joe Namath is returning to Tuscaloosa to be the guest picker on Saturday as the Crimson Tide take on Texas.
Almost everyone thinks of the New York Jets when they think of Joe Namath, especially his famous winning guarantee in Super Bowl III. But, he was the big man on campus at Alabama before he ever suited up for the Jets.
“Broadway Joe” was an exceptional 29-4 as a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide for legendary head coach Bear Bryant from 1962-1964. In 1964, he led the team to the AP National Championship as a senior, cementing his legacy in Tuscaloosa forever. They were crowned champions despite losing the Orange Bowl to Texas, as the final AP and Coaches polls came out following the conclusion of the regular season.
He finished his career there with 2,713 yards, 25 touchdowns and 19 interceptions through the air, and another 700 on the ground. Much different game back then, obviously.
Fast-forward nearly sixty years, and Alabama and Texas are set to meet again. Last year’s game was a classic that saw Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers leave the game early with injury and Alabama winning on a walk-off field goal in Austin. This year’s game is arguably more anticipated, as many view Texas as a bona fide playoff contender. Obviously, Alabama is once again considered a national title contender, even if they are flying a bit more under the radar than most years.
Crimson Tide fans are definitely going to be hoping for some of that Joe Namath magic as he makes his return.
ESPN announces Joe Namath will be the College GameDay guest picker before Alabama-Texas on Saturday.
— Michael Casagrande (@ByCasagrande) September 7, 2023
I’m guessing he’s going to pick the Crimson Tide.