Nick Saban’s retirement in January made a huge impact both on the coaches and players. After 16 championships at Alabama, the retirement of the Alabama head coach ultimately caused a Butterfly Effect. This led to a strange situation where 423 coaches and staffers experienced a change in their positions. His departure impacted “38 Power 5 schools, 25 Group of 5 schools, 34 lower-level programs, more than a dozen high schools and 10 NFL organizations,” as per The Athletic. 

Among the impacted coaches is Kalen DeBoer, who led the Washington Huskies to the National Championship game last season. But with his impressive HC record of 106-12, he was the perfect Saban replacement as Alabama AD Greg Byrne said, “Coach DeBoer has proven he is a winner and has done an incredible job as a head coach at each of his stops.” While it may be a promotion for him, he initially left a gap among the Huskies. Here’s what a safety said of the players’ reactions to DeBoer’s departure.

When Kalen DeBoer left to replace Saban, the Huskies were left with mixed feelings. Washington safety Kamren Fabiculanan appeared in an interview with CBS Sports posted on YouTube on September 11 to talk about his experience losing Kalen DeBoer. He talked about the disbelief that ran through the players when they heard of their HC’s decision to coach the Crimson Tide. He said, “It kind of broke some hearts, and it kind of put some anger into some people.” 

Last season, Washington players celebrated as they reached the National Championship game. But the celebration was short-lived as Kalen DeBoer eventually left them for Alabama four days after the National Championship. With Jedd Fisch taking the Huskies reins, Kamren Fabiculanan also admitted how he’s currently under his fourth HC in Washington. While DeBoer may have left to replace the GOAT CFB coach, his first impression at Alabama has left everyone in awe. 

Kalen DeBoer dominates in his first season in Alabama

Speaking of his decision to leave Washington, Kalen DeBoer said, “Following Coach Saban is an honour. He has been the standard for college football, and his success is unprecedented. I would not have left Washington for just any school. The chance to lead the football program at The University of Alabama is the opportunity of a lifetime.” Snatching this lifetime opportunity, DeBoer made sure he fulfilled everyone’s expectations. 

Kalen DeBoer demonstrated mastery in his first game in Alabama with a 63-0 dominance over WKU. Then they followed with a 42-16 win over South Florida in Week 2 putting them in the list of potential national champs this season. The Crimson Tide are prepared to face the Wisconsin Badgers in Week 3. However, the real challenge for Kalen DeBoer will be seen when they face No. 1 Georgia in Week 4.