Different strokes for different folks, but that’s not the case for Alabama Crimson Tides. With the season right around the corner, it seems the team is still following in former HC Nick Saban’s footsteps.

Nick Saban’s mantras did wonders for Alabama, as they won six national championships during his tenure. Although when Kalen DeBoer took over, there were speculations on his skill set, even after what he did for Sioux Falls by winning 3 national championships. Surprisingly, even Nick was not sure about Crimson Tides’ position in the SEC Championship, so suddenly, what changed his mind?

Former Alabama coach Nick Saban is in Ireland for his first College GameDay of the 2024 football season. But earlier this week, he was in Alabama’s final preseason scrimmage. After visiting the team, his words conveyed his satisfaction. Nick said on College GameDay, “I was worried about the defense, but I think the defense impressed me in the scrimmage that they are coming along.” Well, that’s true, as Alabama’s defensive line is possibly the most stacked unit with players like Tim Keenan and Tim Smith competing for starting roles, and Jaheim Oatis adds depth to the roster with his experience as a backup for both positions.

Nick Saban was also impressed by Alabama following his old coaching mention of “Rat Poison,” which says, “The team still has the same culture they had when I was the coach they play with toughness. They play with great effort.” The Reverse Rat Poison Theory aims at ignoring outside noise and working on your flaws. This did wonders for the Tides and Kalen DeBoer in fall camp, aligning a strong team for the upcoming season. Even Nick was praising Kalen’s efforts, saying, “He has done a really good job.”

Tides depth chart prediction after 2nd scrimmage 

While Nick Saban was known for keeping the depth chart a secret, DeBoer takes a more transparent approach to disclosing where his players stand. While Alabama lost star players like RB Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams to NFL drafts, Kalen smartly used the transfer portals to get his top three running backs, Justice Haynes, Jam Miller, and Richard Young, although Miller was out of the training camp due to a minor injury but will return for the game. 

Alabama’s offensive line also has Kadyn Proctor, right tackle Wilkin Formby, and Elijah Pritchett. So far, the offense seems to have an edge in team strength and also in protecting Tides star players QB Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson, along with new transfers Austin Mack and Dylan Lonergan. The tide receiver room is also filled with exceptional players like Germie Bernard, Kobe Prentice, and Kendrick Law as its explosive trio.

So far, the team’s depth chart looks quite promising. With Alabama entering its very first season under Kalen DeBoer, uncertainties exist until the showdown. What are your thoughts? Do let us know in the comments.