MOBILE, Ala. (AP) - The state's top prep quarterback in the Class of 2009 has committed to Alabama. St. Paul's AJ McCarron announced his decision Saturday.

Raymond Anthony McCarron Jr. picked up the nickname "AJ" when he was young. The 6-foot-4, 189-pounder is a three-sport athlete and the quarterback of the defending Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 5A champions.

Recruiting guidepost Rivals.com rates him as the No. 128 prospect in the nation for the Class of 2009. He's the ninth quarterback listed among their top 250 rising seniors.

McCarron is described as a "team-first" player by St. Paul's coach Mike Bates.

Bates says McCarron has thrown 54 touchdowns the past two years against six interceptions.

McCarron had favored the Miami Hurricanes growing up.

McCarron gave his commitment to Alabama coach Nick Saban on April 23rd, but waited until Saturday to announce it.