Kalen DeBoer is trying to find his footing as the new head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide. It’s no easy task replacing a legend like Nick Saban, who built a dynasty with six national championships, including an SEC title last year. Now, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can DeBoer keep the winning tradition alive?

Well, Alabama is about to make a bold move that could either fuel DeBoer’s fire or add to the pressure. The team’s latest move is to name a field in Bryant-Denny Stadium after Nick Saban! Now, it’s not even been a year since the GOAT retired. 

Football expert Joshua Perry is not a fan of the decision as he bluntly states, “I don’t like it right now.” He felt the recent SEC Media Day was “like a Nick Saban memorial” with everyone showering praise on the former coach while DeBoer sat in the spotlight. To make matters worse, Saban confirmed he’ll maintain a presence in Tuscaloosa with his own office in Bryant-Denny Stadium.

The field naming ceremony is scheduled for September 7th during the game against South Florida. And Perry believes DeBoer might not be thrilled about all the attention on Saban, especially in his first year. “If I’m Kalen DeBoer, I don’t like very much of this,” Perry said. “Like dawg, this is year one for me, and I feel like there’re too many reminders of the guy who just left.”

Despite the challenges, DeBoer himself says that having Saban around is helpful. It looks like the new HC is trying to build its own winning ways while Saban watches from the sidelines.

Kalen DeBoer is a new kind of energy in Alabama

Kalen DeBoer is a whole different kind of coach compared to Nick Saban. The new Crimson Tide coach isn’t following the legendary coach’s playbook and has already put his own stamp on the program.

Saban was known for his intense, demanding style, creating a winning culture through grueling practices. In contrast, DeBoer appears calm and collected. Even Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has noticed the difference. “I want you to celebrate, I want you to be excited, that was a really good pass!” Milroe recalls DeBoer saying after completing a successful throw. The quarterback admits he was caught off guard, unsure whether to enjoy the moment or prepare for the next play. Now, this stark difference in coaching style we are talking about!

Experts too think DeBoer is bringing a fresh vibe to the team, which could lead to big wins. But he also knows how important Saban is as DeBoer himself said, “Saban built this place up by winning and spending money, so I’m really grateful.” He also likes that Saban is still around to help out, saying, “He’s been there for me when I needed him and answered my questions.” It seems like having Saban nearby will only help DeBoer for good.