Let's dive into the ongoing conversation around Alabama football and its current head coach, Kalen DeBoer. The comparisons between DeBoer and the legendary Nick Saban are relentless, echoing the challenges faced by coaches who succeeded the iconic Paul W.
Bryant. But, as SEC Network’s Cole Cubelic highlighted on his radio show, it's time to put these comparisons to rest.
Cubelic made a compelling point, addressing the unrealistic expectations that some fans hold: “You can say the direction of the program isn’t what it was from 2009 to 2021, but who is exactly where they were five years ago?” It's a question that resonates beyond just Alabama, touching on the broader landscape of college football.
Under DeBoer, Alabama finished the last season with an 11-4 record, making it to the College Football Playoff and securing a first-round victory against Oklahoma. Yet, the team has faced four losses in each of DeBoer’s first two seasons since he took over in 2025. These results have sparked debate among fans who remember the Saban era as a time of near-constant dominance.
Cubelic’s perspective is a reminder that expecting perpetual peak performance is unrealistic, not just for Alabama but for any team. The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and holding onto past glories can cloud judgment about the present and future potential.
Alabama’s journey under DeBoer is a new chapter, and while the shadow of Saban looms large, it's crucial to evaluate the team on its current merits rather than past benchmarks. The evolution of the program may not mirror the Saban years, but it’s an opportunity for growth and new successes.
In the end, the conversation isn’t just about comparing coaches; it’s about understanding the natural ebb and flow of sports dynasties. Alabama fans, and indeed all college football enthusiasts, would do well to embrace the present and look forward to what DeBoer and his team can achieve in their own right.