It’s not surprising when the name Nick Saban pops out of people’s mouths while talking about Alabama football. After all, the GOAT had been around for 17 years and left a legacy behind with six National Championships. So, it can feel strange for any Alabama fan to adapt with this unforeseen change of circumstance, especially in the first year of Saban’s retirement.

Coming in as Saban’s replacement, Kalen DeBoer is already an accomplished HC with three NAIA Championship titles. He also led Washington to a CFP appearance last season. But still, there’s always a tiny factor of the Saban-comparison but this particular incident is a pure accident; a slip of tongue. And Kalen DeBoer handled it like a gentleman. 

Chris Stewart is like everybody else who’s experiencing the first season after a Saban-dominant era. And yeah, he let the mistake slip out while hosting Kalen DeBoer at “Hey Coach!” show. As posted on X on September 4, “Chris Stewart accidentally called Kalen DeBoer “Coach Saban”.” But the new Alabama HC’s response is epic!

When Stewart trailed without realizing his mistake, DeBoer was seen chuckling till his host noticed what just happened. Topping the incident with a hearty response, he said as he suppressed his laughter, “Hey, he’s everywhere. I’m sure he’s in here. I was looking around trying to find him.” Stewart quickly took accountability and added, “6:46 on September 4th, I finally did it. And I apologize.” But he replied, “You don’t have to apologize… If that’s what I’m called, I think I’m pretty good.” The way DeBoer reacted to the situation just shows what a sport he is! And he also nailed his coaching power in Alabama’s first game against WKU. 

Kalen DeBoer acknowledges Nick Saban’s support for Alabama

Nick Saban may have retired as a coach but his heart is still with Alabama. In his speech to Sports Illustrated, DeBoer revealed that Saban reached out before the Crimson Tide’s season opener. He said, “We talked actually before the game. He gave me a call on Thursday, and that was really cool for the guys. He wanted me to pass along that he’s thinking about them and wishing them the best and gonna be rooting for them.”

Kalen DeBoer proved his worthiness as the GOAT’s replacement by topping his debut HC record with a spectacular 63-0 win over Western Kentucky. With this show of power in the first game, anticipation has quickly built up for the upcoming games with high expectations placed on DeBoer. Their next game is scheduled against USF on September 8.