Since 2006, this would be the first season for Alabama where Nick Saban was not representing the team. Instead, the new head coach, Kalen DeBoer, was present at the SEC meetings. DeBoer was obvious with his thought that to be the highest seed you have to give importance to every game. Moreover, he mentioned, “I don’t like to think that you have a little wiggle room because more teams are in the playoff. I don’t want us thinking that way“. Therefore, DeBoer’s strategy in the 2024 season is quite unpredictable. 

However, some believe that a sort of unpredictability can boost the team spirit over a strong opponent, whereas others think the combination of a new-look coaching staff and a roster can work as negative for Alabama because it lost plenty of last season’s playmakers. Although Tide begins the 2024 college football season against Western Kentucky, the Bulldogs were planning to start a winning streak against the Crimson. On the other hand, DeBoer also has made some strong fresh changes to the squad which might go on to decimate the Bulldogs. 

DeBoer’s coaching strategy is causing worry

Presently, DeBoer is considered the second-best coach in America, according to ESPN ranks, because the Georgia Bulldogs’ head coach, Kirby Smart takes the first place. You have to remember last year’s scenario of the SEC title game, where the Bulldogs dropped from No. 1 in the playoff rankings to No. 6 after losing to Alabama 27-24. Although Smart is quite hopeful this year to see his track record in 2021 and 2022 in the national championship. On this, he stated, “I coached in the NFL for a year, and I watch the NFL every year, At the end of the day, a 9-7 year is playoff worthy.“

Conversely, the host of @TheGAMEon1009, Ryan C. Fowler, is quite optimistic about the coaching strategy of DeBoer and on August 25, 2024, he shared a post on his X account with a bombastic caption, “Kalen DeBoer can flat-out coach, the rest of the SEC has officially hit the anxiety button.” Additionally, he mentioned, “This offense under DeBoer and Milroe as the QB is going to create some insomnia for opposing defensive coordinators“. Along with that, Alabama has improved its defensive end more than expected under Kalen. So, it’s natural to contemplate the championship knowledge of Alabama HC heading into the 2024 season. 

Smart says it’s “great to get to know” Kalen

During an interview, a reporter about his impressions of Alabama’s new head coach Smart. In response, he replied, “Don’t know much about Kalen. I’ve been in a couple of meetings with him, SEC head coach meetings. Been great to get to know him.”

It indicates some sense of anxiety of Kirby Smart & Co. However, both coaches have a huge contribution to shaping great players for their respective teams. It’s time to unveil the final result of this conversation. So, let’s wait and watch.