Alabama football head coach Kalen DeBoer faces a challenging situation, struggling to integrate his coaching style into a team that doesn’t fit his vision. This has led to the Crimson Tide’s worst start to a season since 2007, as they fell to 5-2 following a loss to Tennessee in Knoxville. This defeat comes after an impressive start against Georgia, highlighting the inconsistency of the team under DeBoer.
The landscape of college football has shifted, and while Georgia may be viewed as the current standard, Alabama is no longer in that conversation. Despite the Vols celebrating their victory, it’s evident that beating Alabama has lost its significance, as teams like Vanderbilt and a flawed Tennessee squad have done so. While Alabama’s playoff hopes aren’t completely extinguished, they are precariously hanging on.
Evaluating DeBoer after just seven games may be premature, as he inherited a team primarily built by previous coaches, with only a few transfers reflecting his vision. Although I believe he was the right hire for Alabama’s future, it’s apparent that he wasn’t the ideal choice for the immediate season. His offensive strategies clash with the current players, particularly Jalen Milroe, who, despite his talents, doesn’t fit DeBoer’s quarterback profile. While benching Milroe isn’t a practical solution, the team’s struggles suggest that a better-suited player like Ty Simpson may be necessary. However, it’s worth noting that Milroe was chosen as the starter by two coaching staffs, possibly to maintain locker room harmony after a tumultuous previous season.
Looking ahead, it will take time for DeBoer to shape the program according to his philosophy. Fans won’t see the results of his vision next season, but 2026 will be crucial in determining if his approach will work. While he must take responsibility for the team’s undisciplined play, it’s important to acknowledge that Alabama has struggled with penalties for several seasons, a trend evident in Nick Saban’s final years.
There was a lack of a clear succession plan following Saban’s departure. No longtime coordinators were prepared to take over and maintain team stability, potentially causing issues like Caleb Downs’ transfer. The coaching landscape has changed since Saban’s heyday, with former assistants like Kirby Smart and Steve Sarkisian now leading successful programs elsewhere.
As DeBoer continues to learn and adapt, he must also engage a roster that is unaccustomed to losing. No Alabama team has suffered two losses before November in the past 17 years, raising questions about how the current players will respond. Will they remain committed, or will some opt out, as seen with Jeheim Oatis after the Vanderbilt defeat?
In today’s college football climate, uncertainty reigns. The transition for Alabama under DeBoer is proving more complex than many anticipated, and the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the program’s future.
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