The Kalen DeBoer era at Alabama got off to a resounding start on Saturday as the Crimson Tide cruised to a 63-0 victory over the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
DeBoer, in his first game as Alabama’s head coach, saw his team jump out to a commanding lead with three touchdowns in the opening quarter, setting the tone for the one-sided demolishment.
The lopsided scoreline reassured fans that the Crimson Tide remain a formidable force, even in the absence of Nick Saban.
Don’t get me wrong – the game was of course never going to be in doubt. But it was still impressive to see the Tide not miss a beat under DeBoer.
Although tougher challenges lie ahead, Alabama’s clinical performance provided an early glimpse of the team’s potential under DeBoer’s leadership.
The Tide’s offense was firing on all cylinders, reflecting some of the new head coach’s innovative strategies. Quarterback Jalen Milroe was among those who noticed the fresh approach.
“Yeah, it’s a little different,” Milroe said when asked about the differences between DeBoer and Saban. “I always kid Coach [DeBoer] about what’s on his music playlist for the day. He mixes it up, same way as his offense.”
The offense, indeed, was anything but predictable.
Milroe threw for 100 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for two more scores. Despite only attempting nine passes, Milroe’s dual-threat capability was on full display, contributing significantly to Alabama’s dominant run game.
In addition to Milroe, Alabama captain Tyler Booker weighed in on the transition from Saban to DeBoer, emphasizing that while some things have changed, the program’s high standards remain intact.
“It sets the tone for the rest of practice,” Booker said, referring to the intense #1 offense vs. #1 defense drill that kicks off each practice session.
“We’re as physical as we’ve ever been. That standard will never change here, and it’s a standard that Coach DeBoer demands as much as Coach Saban. We said it when Coach Saban was here and say it now. We are the standard.”
While the blowout win over Western Kentucky didn’t resolve all questions surrounding the team, it was a promising start that showcased the discipline and talent that define Alabama football.
With another home game on the horizon, this time against USF, the Crimson Tide are expected to continue their winning ways. (Let’s see if the game against the Bulls goes smoother this time around compared to last year.)
As for Saban, he’s made it clear that he’ll always be willing and able to help the program any way he can.
“He just wanted you guys to know how much he cares about you, how much he loves you and he can’t wait to watch you play this year,” DeBoer told the team prior to Saturday’s victory.
What are your early thoughts on DeBoer?
By all accounts, he’s the perfect coach to take over for Saban … While it’s unfair to expect the same results, do you think DeBoer’s legacy will ultimately approach (near) Saban level?
(I know, one step at a time…)
As for this season, what are your realistic expectations for the Tide???