It’s tough to define Kalen DeBoer’s first year with the Alabama Crimson Tide as a success or failure; it was more a learning experience than anything. The Tide finished 9-4 on the year with an ugly bowl loss to Michigan but also spent time as the No. 1 team in the country with impressive wins over Georgia and LSU.
Replacing Nick Saban would never be easy, so there was a built-in learning curve for year one. However, missing out on the playoffs for a second straight year could spell massive troubles for DeBoer and his staff. With a year to learn the SEC and get more of his players in, all of the pieces are in place for a massive step forward in year two. DeBoer was able to guide Washington to a national title appearance in 2023, so it’s fair to assume he’ll be able to do the same at Alabama.
USA TODAY Sports ranked the six coaches in college football with the best chance of winning their first national title. DeBoer came in at No. 4 on the list behind Steve Sarkisian, Dan Lanning and Brian Kelly, with Blake Toppmeyer saying,
“DeBoer misfired in his first season replacing Saban. No sugar coating it. He certainly hasn’t, acknowledging he failed to meet expectations. But, look here, Alabama signed the nation’s No. 3-ranked recruiting class, and Miami transfer Isaiah Horton will upgrade the receiving corps. Experienced players fill the defense. Alabama’s national title bona fides hinge on its quarterback… DeBoer reunited with Ryan Grubb, his longtime consigliere. I don’t doubt Grubb will be a coordinator upgrade, but he can’t change the quarterback personnel. Either Simpson or Russell must be ready to shine by September.”
Alabama will certainly have one of the most talented rosters in the sport next season, but they face one of the toughest schedules in the country. The Crimson Tide will open up the 2025 campaign with a trip to Florida State. Although the Seminoles were historically bad in 2024 with a 2-10 record, Mike Norvell knows he’s probably coaching for his job all season, and a statement win over Alabama would alleviate some of that heat.
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