As the 2025 college football season kicks off, the University of Alabama’s football program is undergoing significant changes under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer. Following a disappointing 2024 season, which saw the team finish with four losses and miss the College Football Playoff for the third time in 11 seasons, DeBoer is determined to reset the tone for the upcoming year. The season opener against No. 8 Florida State is set for Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Upon returning to campus on January 13, the Alabama players were met with a powerful message from head strength coach David Ballou. In a fiery team meeting, he called out players for a perceived lack of urgency, stating bluntly, “If you don’t want to be here, leave.” This declaration underscores the team’s need to reclaim its traditional dominance, a standard that has faltered in recent times.
Defensive end Ryan Williams reflected on the previous season, acknowledging the disappointment: “We didn’t live up to the Alabama standard this past season, and it needed to be addressed. We all knew it, but it’s never a bad thing to be reminded.” The challenges of the last season were stark, marked by unexpected losses, including a defeat to unranked Vanderbilt, which broke a 40-year streak of victories over the Commodores.
Addressing the Elephant in the Room
The atmosphere around Alabama football has shifted. With Nick Saban‘s legendary tenure now a backdrop, the program is experiencing a new vulnerability. Last season’s missteps included a lack of consistency, highlighted by a humiliating 24-3 loss to Oklahoma, and struggles against teams that historically would have been easy wins.
In the wake of these challenges, players are adopting a more combative stance. Florida State quarterback Tommy Castellanos stirred the pot in June, claiming that the Crimson Tide “don’t have Nick Saban to save them.” In contrast, defensive end LT Overton dismissed the remarks, emphasizing that their performance on the field will speak louder than words.
As the season approaches, DeBoer has emphasized a consistent message of urgency. Senior defensive tackle Tim Keenan III encapsulated this with a rallying cry: “We got to remember that we’re Alabama. People want our heads on a platter. They’re not going to get it.”
Rebuilding and Reinvigorating the Program
One of DeBoer’s key strategies for revitalizing the team is bringing back offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who previously worked with him at various institutions. Grubb’s return is seen as a pivotal move in enhancing the offensive strategy. The coaching duo’s long-standing collaboration is expected to yield a more cohesive approach, as they aim to maximize the strengths of the players.
In contrast to last year’s offensive setup that focused heavily on Jalen Milroe’s running ability, Grubb envisions a more balanced attack centered around first-year starting quarterback Ty Simpson, who is now in his fourth year with the program. Grubb noted, “You want your quarterback throwing the ball, leading your offense that way, and not necessarily getting whacked on the inside zone play.” This strategic shift reflects a commitment to longevity and performance throughout the demanding season.
Defensively, the team is set to leverage its newfound depth, particularly in the secondary. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack has expressed confidence in the team’s capability to adapt and overcome injuries that plagued them last season. The arrival of talented freshmen and returning veterans is expected to enhance Alabama’s performance, especially after finishing 10th nationally in scoring defense last year.
As the Crimson Tide prepares for the upcoming season, players and coaches alike are united by a shared goal: to restore Alabama’s reputation as a powerhouse in college football. With a renewed focus on urgency, consistency, and teamwork, DeBoer and his squad are poised to make a statement in their season opener against Florida State.
In the words of Lawson, “That’s why you come to Alabama, to uphold the standard set by the players that came here before you.” As kickoff approaches, the Alabama football program stands at a crossroads, ready to chart a new course in pursuit of excellence.
