Jalen Hurts’ College Career-Jalen Hurts has emerged as one of the NFL’s brightest stars, leading the Philadelphia Eagles to two Super Bowl appearances in three years and securing a Super Bowl LIX victory in 2025. However, his journey to professional stardom was forged in the crucible of an extraordinary college football career that spanned two powerhouse programs: Alabama and Oklahoma. As of March 27, 2025, Hurts’ college legacy remains a hot topic on platforms like YouTube and Google, with fans eager to revisit his stats, defining moments, and the unique path that shaped him into the quarterback he is today. From his freshman heroics at Alabama to his Heisman-finalist season at Oklahoma, Hurts’ college story is one of resilience, record-breaking performances, and a rare ability to thrive under pressure. In this expansive article, we’ll dive deep into every facet of Jalen Hurts’ college career, exploring his stats, highlights, transfer saga, and the questions fans are asking most. Buckle up for a comprehensive look at a collegiate odyssey unlike any other!
The Early Years: From Channelview to College Commitment
Jalen Alexander Hurts was born on August 7, 1998, in Houston, Texas, to Pamela and Averion Hurts Sr. His father, a high school football coach at Channelview High School, instilled a love for the game in Jalen from a young age. At Channelview, Hurts emerged as a four-star recruit, ranked as the No. 3 dual-threat quarterback in the 2016 class by 247Sports. His senior year stats were staggering: 2,384 passing yards, 26 passing touchdowns, 1,391 rushing yards, and 25 rushing touchdowns. A multi-sport athlete, Hurts also excelled in powerlifting, becoming a regional finalist in his weight class.
Recruitment Spotlight
Hurts’ high school exploits drew offers from powerhouses like Texas A&M, Mississippi State, and Florida. However, he committed to Alabama in June 2015, drawn by Nick Saban’s reputation for developing quarterbacks and the Crimson Tide’s championship pedigree. His decision marked the beginning of a college career that would captivate the football world.
Alabama: The Freshman Phenom (2016)
Hurts enrolled at Alabama in 2016 and wasted no time making an impact. After a brief stint behind Blake Barnett, he seized the starting role in Week 2 against Western Kentucky, becoming the first true freshman quarterback to start under Saban in 32 years.
Statistical Debut
In that game, Hurts threw for 287 yards and two touchdowns, setting an Alabama record for passing yards in a debut as a starter, while adding 19 rushing yards. It was a sign of things to come. Over the 2016 season, he started 14 of 15 games, leading Alabama to a perfect 14-0 regular season and SEC Championship.
Passing: 240/382 (62.8%), 2,780 yards, 23 TDs, 9 INTs
Rushing: 191 carries, 954 yards, 13 TDs
Record: 13-1 as a starter
Defining Moments
SEC Championship (Dec. 3, 2016): Hurts torched Florida 54-16, earning SEC Offensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors.
Iron Bowl Record: Against Auburn, he completed 75% of his passes, setting an Iron Bowl record.
National Championship Heartbreak: In the 2017 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship, Hurts led Alabama to a 31-28 lead over Clemson with 2:07 left, but Deshaun Watson’s last-second touchdown pass handed Alabama a 35-31 loss.
Hurts finished the season with 3,734 total yards and 36 total touchdowns, cementing his status as a dual-threat dynamo and a finalist for the Manning Award.
Alabama: Sophomore Strides and a Bench Moment (2017)
Hurts returned as Alabama’s starter in 2017, refining his game under Saban’s tutelage. The Crimson Tide went 11-1 in the regular season, with their lone loss a 26-14 defeat to Auburn.
Season Stats
Passing: 154/254 (60.6%), 2,081 yards, 17 TDs, 1 INT
Rushing: 154 carries, 855 yards, 8 TDs
Record: 13-1 as a starter
Playoff Run
Hurts earned Offensive MVP honors in the Sugar Bowl semifinal, rushing for 47 yards and a touchdown in a 24-6 win over Clemson. However, the National Championship against Georgia on January 8, 2018, became a turning point. Trailing 13-0 at halftime, Hurts struggled (3/8, 21 yards) and was benched for freshman Tua Tagovailoa, who led a 26-23 overtime comeback. Hurts’ grace on the sideline—cheering his teammate despite losing his job—won him widespread admiration.
Alabama: The Backup Role and Redemption (2018)
With Tagovailoa named the starter in 2018, Hurts transitioned to a backup role. He appeared in 13 games, often in specific packages, and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Information Sciences in December.
Limited Stats
Passing: 51/70 (72.9%), 765 yards, 8 TDs, 2 INTs
Rushing: 36 carries, 167 yards, 2 TDs
SEC Championship Heroics
On December 1, 2018, Hurts got his moment of redemption. With Tagovailoa injured in the fourth quarter of the SEC Championship against Georgia, Alabama trailed 28-21. Hurts entered, completing 7/9 passes for 82 yards and a touchdown, plus a 15-yard rushing score, to secure a 35-28 comeback win. This clutch performance sent Alabama to the CFP and showcased Hurts’ resilience.
The Transfer Decision: Why Oklahoma?
After three seasons at Alabama (26-2 as a starter, 1 National Championship, 2 SEC titles), Hurts entered the transfer portal in January 2019. Saban suggested Oklahoma, citing Lincoln Riley’s track record with quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, both Heisman winners. Hurts announced his decision in a Players’ Tribune article, seeking a fresh start to boost his NFL draft stock.
Oklahoma: A Heisman-Caliber Finale (2019)
Hurts arrived in Norman as a graduate transfer, replacing Murray, and immediately transformed Oklahoma’s offense. Starting all 14 games, he led the Sooners to a 12-2 record, a Big 12 Championship, and a CFP berth.
Stellar Stats
Passing: 237/340 (69.7%), 3,851 yards, 32 TDs, 8 INTs
Rushing: 233 carries, 1,298 yards, 20 TDs
Receiving: 2 catches, 25 yards, 1 TD
Total Offense: 5,149 yards, 53 total TDs
Record-Breaking Debut
In his Sooners debut on September 1, 2019, against Houston, Hurts shattered Oklahoma’s single-game yardage record for a debut, amassing 508 total yards (332 passing, 176 rushing) and six touchdowns. This performance thrust him into the Heisman conversation.
Season Highlights
Texas Showdown: In the Red River Rivalry, Hurts threw for 235 yards and three touchdowns, plus 131 rushing yards and a score, in a 34-27 win over No. 11 Texas.
Baylor Comeback: Against No. 12 Baylor, he engineered a 28-3 deficit into a 34-31 victory, totaling 411 yards and four touchdowns.
Heisman Runner-Up: Hurts finished second to LSU’s Joe Burrow in the 2019 Heisman voting, with 3,851 passing yards and 1,298 rushing yards—the most by an Oklahoma QB in a season.
CFP Disappointment
Oklahoma’s season ended with a 63-28 loss to LSU in the Peach Bowl semifinal, but Hurts’ 385 total yards and four touchdowns underscored his brilliance against a juggernaut.
Career Totals and Records
Across four seasons (Alabama 2016-18, Oklahoma 2019), Hurts compiled jaw-dropping numbers:
Passing: 682/1,046 (65.2%), 9,477 yards, 80 TDs, 20 INTs
Rushing: 614 carries, 3,274 yards, 43 TDs
Total Offense: 12,751 yards, 123 total TDs
Record as Starter: 38-4 (.905 winning percentage)
Notable Records
One of 17 FBS players with 40+ passing and rushing TDs.
Lowest interception percentage in Alabama history (0.39%, 2017, min. 100 attempts).
Most rushing yards by an Oklahoma QB in a season (1,298).
Alabama QB career leader in rushing TDs (23).
Hurts’ college career remains a fascination, with fans digging into his journey. Here’s what’s trending, answered with the latest insights:
“Where Did Jalen Hurts Play College Football?”
Hurts played three seasons at Alabama (2016-18) and one at Oklahoma (2019). He’s one of few players to star at two elite programs, earning accolades at both.
“Why Did Jalen Hurts Transfer from Alabama?”
After losing his starting job to Tagovailoa in 2018, Hurts sought a final season as a starter to showcase his passing skills for the NFL. Oklahoma’s high-octane offense under Riley was the perfect fit, elevating his draft stock from a questionable prospect to a second-round pick.
“What Were Jalen Hurts’ Best College Stats?”
His 2019 Oklahoma season stands out: 3,851 passing yards, 32 passing TDs, 1,298 rushing yards, and 20 rushing TDs. His debut (508 yards, 6 TDs) and Baylor comeback (411 yards, 4 TDs) are fan favorites on YouTube highlight reels.
“Did Jalen Hurts Win a National Championship?”
Yes, at Alabama in 2017. Though benched in the title game, he played a key role in the Sugar Bowl semifinal and was part of the championship roster.
“How Many CFP Appearances Did Hurts Have?”
Four: Alabama in 2016, 2017, and 2018 (starting in ’16 and ’17), and Oklahoma in 2019. His teams went 51-5 in games he appeared in.
Defining Traits: What Made Hurts Special
Dual-Threat Mastery
Hurts redefined the quarterback position with his blend of passing accuracy (65.2% career completion) and rushing prowess (3,274 yards). His 123 total touchdowns rank among the FBS elite.
Leadership and Composure
From calming teammates as a freshman to supporting Tagovailoa after being benched, Hurts’ poise was legendary. Alabama’s Calvin Ridley likened him to Jameis Winston for his cool-headedness.
Resilience
Benched in a national title game, Hurts could’ve sulked. Instead, he returned to win an SEC title and then thrived at Oklahoma, proving doubters wrong about his passing ability.
Legacy at Alabama and Oklahoma
Alabama’s Winningest QB
Hurts’ 26-2 record as a starter and 92.9% winning percentage rank fourth in Alabama history. His 23 rushing TDs remain a program record for quarterbacks.
Oklahoma’s One-Year Wonder
In just one season, Hurts ranks ninth in Sooners history for career passing yards (3,851) and total offense (5,149), cementing his place among Riley’s Heisman finalists.
Dual Allegiance
Hurts claims both schools, often wearing Alabama gear in the NFL while praising Oklahoma’s role in his development. “I have so much love for both,” he said on “The Dan Patrick Show” in 2021.
Transition to the NFL
Selected 53rd overall by the Eagles in the 2020 NFL Draft, Hurts’ college stats didn’t fully silence critics about his pocket presence. Yet, his 9,477 passing yards and 3,274 rushing yards at two elite programs showcased a versatility that translated to pro success—two Super Bowl trips and a 2025 title by age 26.
A College Career for the Ages
Jalen Hurts’ college journey—from Alabama’s freshman sensation to Oklahoma’s Heisman runner-up—is a testament to talent, tenacity, and transformation. His 38-4 record, four CFP appearances, and record-setting stats paint a picture of a quarterback who thrived at every turn, even amidst adversity. As of March 27, 2025, fans on YouTube and Google continue to marvel at his highlights, debate his transfer, and celebrate a career that bridged two football dynasties. Whether it’s his SEC heroics or Sooner stardom, Hurts’ college legacy endures as one of the most remarkable in modern football history—a story of a young Texan who conquered the gridiron and left an indelible mark.
Faqs
Where did Jalen Hurts go to college?
Jalen Hurts played college football at two powerhouse programs: Alabama Crimson Tide (2016–2018) and Oklahoma Sooners (2019). He spent three seasons at Alabama, starting as a true freshman, before transferring to Oklahoma for his senior year, where he elevated his game to new heights.
Why did Jalen Hurts transfer from Alabama to Oklahoma?
Hurts transferred after being benched in the 2018 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game. In that game against Georgia on January 8, 2018, Alabama trailed 13-0 at halftime, and coach Nick Saban replaced Hurts with freshman Tua Tagovailoa, who led a 26-23 overtime comeback win. Tagovailoa took over as starter in 2018, relegating Hurts to a backup role. After graduating with a B.A. in communication and information sciences in December 2018, Hurts used his graduate transfer eligibility to join Oklahoma, seeking a final season as a starter to boost his NFL draft stock.
What were Jalen Hurts’ stats in college?
Hurts’ college stats showcase his dual-threat brilliance across four seasons:
Alabama (2016-2018):
Passing: 445/707 (62.9%), 5,626 yards, 48 TDs, 12 INTs
Rushing: 381 carries, 1,976 yards, 23 TDs
Oklahoma (2019):
Passing: 237/340 (69.7%), 3,851 yards, 32 TDs, 8 INTs
Rushing: 233 carries, 1,298 yards, 20 TDs
Career Totals: 682/1,047 (65.1%), 9,477 passing yards, 80 passing TDs, 3,274 rushing yards, 43 rushing TDs
He’s one of only 17 FBS players to record 40+ passing and rushing TDs in a career!
Did Jalen Hurts win a national championship in college?
Yes! Hurts was part of Alabama’s 2017 National Championship team. Though benched at halftime in the title game against Georgia (January 8, 2018), he started all season, leading Alabama to an 11-1 regular season and a 24-6 Sugar Bowl win over Clemson, earning offensive MVP honors. Tagovailoa’s comeback sealed the title, but Hurts’ contributions were vital.
What awards did Jalen Hurts win in college?
Hurts racked up accolades:
2016 (Alabama): SEC Offensive Player of the Year, SEC Freshman of the Year, Freshman All-American
2019 (Oklahoma): Heisman Trophy runner-up (behind Joe Burrow), First-Team All-Big 12
He was also a Manning Award finalist in 2016 and set multiple school records at both Alabama and Oklahoma.
What was Jalen Hurts’ best game in college?
One standout is his Oklahoma debut on September 1, 2019, against Houston. Hurts torched the Cougars, completing 20/23 passes for 332 yards and 3 TDs, while rushing for 176 yards and 3 TDs in a 49-31 win. He shattered Oklahoma’s single-game debut yardage record (previously 396 by Baker Mayfield), amassing 508 total yards—a YouTube highlight-reel favorite!
How did Jalen Hurts perform in the Heisman Trophy voting?
In 2019 at Oklahoma, Hurts finished second in Heisman Trophy voting, trailing LSU’s Joe Burrow. He posted a monster season—3,851 passing yards, 32 passing TDs, 1,298 rushing yards, and 20 rushing TDs—becoming the first CFP-era QB to lead two different schools (Alabama and Oklahoma) to the playoff. Fans still debate if Burrow’s historic year overshadowed Hurts’ brilliance.
What records did Jalen Hurts set in college?
Hurts left his mark:
Alabama: Most rushing TDs by a QB (23), highest passing yards in a debut start (287 vs. Western Kentucky, 2016), lowest INT percentage in a season (0.39%, 2017)
Oklahoma: Most rushing yards by a QB in a season (1,298, 2019), highest single-game debut yardage (508 vs. Houston)
FBS: One of 35 QBs with 2,000+ passing and 1,000+ rushing yards in a season
How many games did Jalen Hurts win as a starter?
Hurts was a winner, going 38-4 as a starter across both schools:
Alabama: 26-2 (2016-2017)
Oklahoma: 12-2 (2019)
His teams went 51-5 in games he appeared in, with seven CFP appearances (five as a starter).
What was Jalen Hurts’ role in the 2018 SEC Championship?
In a Hollywood-worthy moment, Hurts came off the bench in the 2018 SEC Championship against Georgia on December 1, 2018. With Alabama trailing 28-14 and Tagovailoa injured, Hurts entered in the fourth quarter, going 7/9 for 82 yards and a TD pass, plus a 15-yard rushing TD to secure a 35-28 comeback win. It clinched Alabama’s CFP spot and remains a fan-favorite clip online.
Why do Alabama and Oklahoma fans both claim Jalen Hurts?
Alabama fans tout his 26-2 record, national title, and SEC heroics, while Oklahoma fans highlight his 2019 Heisman run and record-breaking stats under Lincoln Riley. Hurts himself embraces both, often seen in gear from each school, but famously opts for “Channelview High School” in NFL intros to sidestep the debate!
Did Jalen Hurts graduate from college?
Yes, twice! Hurts earned a B.A. in communication and information sciences from Alabama in December 2018 after three years. He then completed a Master’s in human relations at Oklahoma in May 2023, walking the stage to a standing ovation—a testament to his off-field dedication.
How did Jalen Hurts’ college career impact his NFL draft stock?
Initially seen as a run-first QB at Alabama, Hurts’ 2019 Oklahoma season transformed his profile. His 69.7% completion rate, 3,851 passing yards, and 52 total TDs showcased his passing growth, elevating him from a mid-round prospect to the No. 53 overall pick (second round) by the Eagles in the 2020 NFL Draft.
What did coaches say about Jalen Hurts in college?
Nick Saban (Alabama): Advised Hurts to transfer to Oklahoma, saying, “Go where they have the best players” to maximize his value.
Lincoln Riley (Oklahoma): After Hurts’ debut, “He handled the moment good… you could tell he’d been in it.”
Both praised his poise and leadership.
Why should you care about Jalen Hurts’ college career?
Hurts’ journey is a rollercoaster of highs (national titles, Heisman runs) and lows (benching, transfer), making him a college football icon. His stats, clutch plays, and dual-school legacy fuel endless YouTube breakdowns and Google searches. From leading Alabama to glory as a freshman to rewriting Oklahoma records, Hurts’ story is one of grit and greatness—perfect for any football fan!
To read more click here
