Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron will return for his senior season in 2013, the school announced today.

“I had many goals for myself when I came to the University of Alabama,” McCarron said in the release. “I have been lucky enough to achieve some of those goals, but some are still ahead of me. There were many factors in my decision to return to Alabama for my senior year but, after talking with my family and coaches, I knew it was the right choice for me."

McCarron was selected as quarterback on The Associated Press All-America third team today.

McCarron, a native of Mobile, leads the nation in passing efficiency heading into the 2013 Discover BCS National Championship Game. His 26 touchdowns in 2012 set the Tide’s single-season record as McCarron passed for 2,669 yards with only three interceptions. McCarron’s 45 career touchdown passes rank second in program history while his 24 wins are tied for fifth and his .923 winning percentage as a starter is second among UA quarterbacks.

“We are pleased that AJ has decided to return for his senior year next season,” Alabama head coach Nick Saban said. “He’s done a great job for us and has really grown, not only as a quarterback and a player, but as a leader of our team. Like I’ve said before, we want to help our players make sound decisions when it comes to what is best for their future. Our goal at Alabama is to help our guys develop a career off the field by graduating, become the best football players they can be during their time here, and try to win a championship while preparing them for the possibility of playing in the NFL."

The Crimson Tide will begin practice for the national championship game against Notre Dame on Tuesday. The game will be played on Jan. 7 at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla.