“Jalen Milroe is going to be a Heisman finalist“. This bold prediction from JD PicKell indicates a dramatic shift in perception about Alabama’s quarterback. Initially, there was doubt about Milroe’s potential under new head coach Kalen DeBoer. However, DeBoer’s arrival has sparked a significant transformation in Milroe’s performance, changing skeptics’ views.
Kalen DeBoer, renowned for his offensive expertise, has significantly influenced Milroe’s development. Before DeBoer’s tenure, the QB showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency. Under Kalen’s guidance, the young QB has improved his passing accuracy and decision-making. This evolution is necessary as Alabama strives to maintain its competitive edge following Nick Saban’s retirement.
Milroe’s evolution under Kalen DeBoer
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Kalen DeBoer has been doing wonders for Jalen Milroe and his performance has been nothing short of brilliant. JD PicKell, a sports analyst, tweeted, “As we sit here in May, I’ve convinced myself he’s going to be a Heisman finalist“. This endorsement reveals how far DeBoer has taken the young QB, especially in the course of the season.
Started as a major Jalen Milroe skeptic when Kalen DeBoer got hired. As we sit here in May, I’ve convinced myself he’s going to be a Heisman finalist.
— J.D. PicKell (@jdpickell) May 23, 2024
Before Kalen was signed, Milroe had always been inconsistent; he would play some great games and then poorly perform in the subsequent games. As reported by Yahoo Sports, when playing for former coach Nick Saban, the QB occasionally shined, but he never demonstrated the level of accuracy and football intellect required to play at the pro level.
DeBoer has adopted the coaching model of pre-snap read and specific play designs that can suit Milroe. Explaining that, the QB said, “He comes with positive reinforcement behind the coaching. So this is a special moment for me because of who he is as a person”. On The Next Round, Brock Huard also expressed his viewpoint about Milroe and Deboer’s duo. “Kalen DeBoer will have some pretty fun clay to mold“, stated Huard.
Milroe in Alabama would allow the coach to expand on and use the QB’s talents and skill further in the field. This is not all, as Deboer’s overall impact on Alabama has also been significant.
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Kalen DeBoer’s impact on Alabama’s future
DeBoer’s entrance has initiated a new generation for the Alabama Crimson Tide and is seeking to enhance the impact made by Nick Saban. DeBoer’s tactics in the attacking front have played a very crucial role in re-establishing his team.
Another of Kalen’s advantages is his interpersonal skills, particularly his ability to relate to the players. DeVonta Smith, a seasoned defensive back, said about Kalen: “He’s a cool dude. He met with me for two hours and it wasn’t just about football. He wants to get to know us”. This approach has assisted in retaining important players and establishing credibility within the team.
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Furthermore, it is important to note that Kalen has actively participated in the recruitment process and has managed to secure some promising talent, including five-star wide receiver Ryan Williams. As reported by Touchdown Alabama, DeBoer’s personality won Williams over and he said that he has never come across a more humble coach than DeBoer and that he does not wish to play for any other head coach.
Saban’s reign has transitioned to DeBoer control, which marks a fresh start for the Crimson Tide football team with Jalen Milroe in charge. Only time will tell how things will fare for the team this season, but for now they seem to be going in a positive direction.