Alright, let’s dive into the college football landscape as we look ahead to the 2025 season. The dust has settled on the 2024 campaign, and while we wait for the fall to roll around again, there’s plenty to keep an eye on, including spring practices, the transfer portal, and the looming revenue-sharing model that is set to change the game.
With the winter transfer portal closed, the early signing period done and most of the coaching carousel settled, these are some of the teams that are poised to be the talk of college football next year.
First up, we’ve got Alabama. Kalen DeBoer’s first year in Tuscaloosa was certainly a shift from the Nick Saban era. A 9-4 record, the worst since 2007, is not what the Crimson Tide faithful have become accustomed to. And it wasn’t just the losses, it was how they happened: a shootout loss to Vanderbilt, a blowout against Oklahoma that derailed their playoff hopes, and a loss to Michigan in their bowl game to top it off.
The pressure is on DeBoer heading into year two. And the 2025 SEC schedule isn’t doing him any favors. Road games against Georgia, Missouri, and South Carolina, plus home matchups against Tennessee and LSU make it a tough slate. After a 2-3 road record last year, they’re starting the 2025 season at Florida State and wrapping it up with the Iron Bowl at Auburn. Talk about a tough road.
Despite the tough schedule, there’s no shortage of talent on the roster. Wide receiver Ryan Williams and tackle Kadyn Proctor are names to watch, and another top-five recruiting class is set to arrive on campus. But they do have some key holes to fill, with Jalen Milroe, a two-year starter at quarterback, moving on, along with guard Tyler Booker and safety Malachi Moore. The quarterback competition this spring between Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and incoming freshman Keelon Russell will be one to watch. DeBoer’s job is to bring the Crimson Tide back to the playoff, and this spring will be key.
