After a rough start to the 2025 NCAA season, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a> and the Alabama Crimson Tide now have everything they hoped for right in front of them. With the SEC Championship ahead on the schedule, the Script A may be affected by the recent news that JaMarcus Shephard will be stepping away from the program. In the 2026 campaign, the assistant coach will become the head coach for the Oregon State Beavers.



It wasn’t always pretty, but the Crimson Tide pushed through. Finishing the regular season with a 10-2 (7-1 conference) record, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a> finished in first place in the SEC, punching its ticket to the Championship Game. 



However, with wide receivers coach and co-offensive coordinator JaMarcus Shephard set to leave the coaching staff ahead of the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> season, many are skeptical about how that could impact the Tide. On that note, DeBoer voiced a straightforward comment.



“Yeah, [Shephard] really wants to be a part of everything that we do throughout,” DeBoer said about the co-offensive coordinator ahead of the SEC Championship Game, via On3. “There’s a couple things here right now early in the week that he’s got to part as far as obligations with kind of getting things started there with his opportunity at Oregon State, which we’re super excited for. He’s a guy that pours everything into this program.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538070_jamarcus-shephard_354586f7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-538125"></figure><figcaption>JaMarcus Shephard giving out orders during a game</figcaption></figure>



<h2>When will Shephard leave for Oregon State?</h2>



While a big opportunity awaits for Shephard in Corvallis, the current co-offensive coordinator will remain in Tuscaloosa a while longer. According to The Crimson White, Shephard will stay with the team through the SEC Championship on Saturday. 


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Whether the wide receivers coach will stay for the ride in the College Football Playoffs or not, that remains to be seen. However, all signs indicate Saturday’s showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be Shephard’s farewell from DeBoer and the University of Alabama, as he is bound for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oregon-state">Oregon State</a>’s head coaching job.



<h2>How many times has Alabama made SEC Title Game?</h2>



When the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide meet in Atlanta, Georgia, two of the three teams with most conference championship appearances will go head to head. The Crimson Tide has been to the decisive conference game 15 times before — this year’s will be the school’s 16th appearance — boasting an 11-4 record.



As for Georgia, the Dawgs will be making their 13th appearance in the SEC Championship. In college football history, the school in Athens has won five conference titles while falling short in the decisive game on seven occasions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538070_georgia-bulldogs_1391f12d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-538127"></figure><figcaption>Georgia walks away with the 2024 SEC Championship</figcaption></figure>



<h2>SEC Championship rematch</h2>



Georgia and Alabama have also squared off in the Championship Game four times (2012, 2018, 2021, and 2023), with the Crimson Tide prevailing each time. This time around, the Dawgs will hope to earn their first win over the Script A in the title showdown. 



In many ways, it’s an opportunity to start fresh, as Kirby Smart has never faced DeBoer in an SEC title matchup. It will also serve as a tiebreaker, with DeBoer and Smart owning one win apiece against each other in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a>. This time, it’s for all the marbles.

Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer voices clear message on JaMarcus Shephard after in-season signing with 5x conference champion

Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer voices clear message on JaMarcus Shephard after in-season signing with 5x conference champion - Bolavip US

Alabama HC DeBoer voices clear message on Shephard after signing with 5x conference champion

miniaturas

Hours have passed since the loudest rumor in college football became a reality: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lane-kiffin">Lane Kiffin</a> is the newest head coach in LSU Tigers history. Though fans are still skeptic of the way Kiffin leaves behind his time in Oxford, the school in Baton Rouge had no hesitation in locking him up with one of the biggest deals in the NCAA. Now, we take a deep dive into the numbers and how Kiffin’s contract stacks up against those of Kirby Smart, Ryan Day, and Kalen DeBoer.



According to NOLA.com, Kiffin has signed a seven-year, $91 million deal with the Lousiana State University. If the Tigers win a national championship in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> under Kiffin’s guidance, then the automatic escalator in his deal assures he will become the highest paid coach in the nation. At the moment, he holds second place.



As reported, Kiffin will earn an average of $13 million per year. However, that number is subject to change due to the bonus incentives included in his contract. As it stands, only one other coach in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> makes more in a season: Kirby Smart. The Georgia Bulldogs’ head coach signed a ten-year, over $130 million extension. According to USA Today, he made $13.28 million this year.



Kiffin and Smart’s salaries are now in close proximity. However, fans in college football note <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirby-smart">Smart</a> has won two national titles. Kiffin, on the other hand, is still after his first. Moreover, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/will-lane-kiffin-coach-ole-miss-in-2025-college-football-playoffs-after-taking-lsu-job" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiffin won’t coach Ole Miss in the College Football Playoffs</a>, he has yet to call the shots in a postseason game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251201_BUS_537437_lane-kiffin-ryan-day-kirby-smart-kalen-deboer_c7f37c62.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-537493"></figure><figcaption>Ryan Day, Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, and Kalen DeBoer</figcaption></figure>



<h2>How much do Day and DeBoer make?</h2>



As reported by NOLA.com, Kiffin and Smart are the only head coaches set to make $13 million before incentives. However, Ohio State Buckeyes head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a> is on their tail. Following the national title conquest in January, Day earned $12.5 million in the 2025 NCAA season, per CBS Sports. Moreover, his contract included max bonuses up to $1.5 million.


 

 

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As for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">DeBoer</a>, the second-year coach in Alabama made a base salary of $10.25 million, according to Tuscaloosa News. At the time of his signing, DeBoer was the third highest paid coach in the Southeastern Conference. 



Sitting behind Smart ($13.28M) and Steve Sarkisian ($10.8M per year), DeBoer will now make room for another coach, taking the fourth spot instead. However, that could all change if any of Smart, Sarkisian, or DeBoer win the natty, which would almost certainly put them in line for a pay raise.



<h2>LSU demands results</h2>



Signing Kiffin in such fashion and under such a rich contract only raised the stakes for LSU. Sky-high expectations were always going to be set for the program with Kiffin at the helm. Now, however, it’s truly championship-or-bust for the Tigers. And if it is a championship, then Kiffin will receive a significant bonus in his bank account, along with the long-desired silverware on his résumé.


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Lane Kiffin's $91 million contract at LSU: How does his new salary compare to Kirby Smart, Ryan Day, and Kalen DeBoer? - Bolavip US

Kiffin's $91 million contract at LSU: How does his new salary compare to Smart, Day, and DeBoer?

The No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide face one of the biggest tests of their season when hosting the No. 12 Oklahoma Sooners in the 2025 NCAA season. Ahead of the key SEC showdown, Kalen DeBoer voiced a stern reminder for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ty-simpson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ty Simpson</a> and company.



Though this is only DeBoer’s second year at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a>, the head coach has already faced Oklahoma before—and he’s determined to right his wrongs. Last season, the Sooners defeated the Crimson Tide 24–3, eliminating the Script A from College Football Playoff contention. Moreover, as Oklahoma handed Bama its third loss of the 2024 campaign, it also knocked the Tide out of the race for the SEC Championship.



This time around, the Crimson Tide is in a much better place in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. Boasting an 8-1 record (6-0 in the conference), Alabama is in pole position to make the 2025 SEC Championship Game. Moreover, the Tide should be a lock for the College Football Playoffs. 



Barring a catastrophic home stretch of the year, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeBoer</a>, Simpson, and Bama should make the cut for the expanded postseason. With only three games remaining, defeating Oklahoma would virtually clinch Alabama’s place in the playoffs. Therefore, DeBoer isn’t leaving anything to chance, voicing a strong message for the players.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251111_BUS_524586_kalen-deboer-1024x576_09e2da17.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looks to his side" class="wp-image-484533" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kalen DeBoer at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Remember last year</h2>



“You know, we have a lot of new players on the team, so there are players that didn’t experience [last year’s loss to Oklahoma]. The ones that did certainly better remember,” DeBoer admitted, via On3. 


 

 

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“And understand that, more importantly, you’re facing a really good program that, you know, obviously, we went to their place and got beat up pretty good last year, and that’s who’s coming to town this week.“



Though Simpson saw the field on just a few occasions last season, he did take a snap during the 24–3 defeat in Norman. Now, Simpson and the Tide are seeking revenge against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oklahoma-sooners" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sooners</a> as the school from the Land of Red Dirt walks into town.



<h2>Something new, something old</h2>



When Alabama hosts Oklahoma at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Nov. 15, it will mark just the second time the Sooners have visited Tuscaloosa in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> history. As it stands, the two schools have gone head-to-head seven times, with Oklahoma holding the upper hand at 4-2-1 against Alabama. 



The Crimson Tide have never beaten the Sooners outside of Miami, Florida, as their two victories came at neutral sites. When Brent Venables and the Sooners arrive in Tuscaloosa, DeBoer, Simpson, and the Tide will not only face a ranked opponent but also the weight of having never defeated Oklahoma in the Heart of Dixie.

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Kalen DeBoer drops blunt reminder for Ty Simpson, Alabama ahead of ranked matchup with Oklahoma - Bolavip US

DeBoer drops blunt reminder for Simpson, Alabama ahead of ranked matchup with Oklahoma

Kalen DeBoer drops blunt reminder for Ty Simpson, Alabama ahead of ranked matchup with Oklahoma

No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the unranked LSU Tigers in a lackluster outing by the offense. After the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kalen DeBoer</a> voiced a sincere comment on the keys to making Ty Simpson’s job easier going forward in the 2025 college football season.



Home fans at Bryant-Denny Stadium weren’t treated to the offense’s best outing during the 20-9 win over rival LSU. Though Simpson finished the night with a notable stat line, it wasn’t always pretty for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a>. However, sometimes it’s only about winning, and the ‘Script A’ did just that against the visiting Tigers, improving to 8-1 (6-0 SEC).



DeBoer and the Tide are now eyeing their next challenge in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. In Week 11, Alabama will host the No. 12 Oklahoma Sooners. In order to take down the school from Norman, DeBoer knows it will take a bigger—and better—effort from his college football program. On that note, the second-year head coach in Tuscaloosa delivered a firm message on what went wrong during the win over LSU.



“We only had 56 [rushing] yards, so it needs to be better,” DeBoer stated per On3. “And I think there’s a lot of things. I think there’s other things we can do to make the defense have to cover us. And we missed opportunities that would help open up the box a little bit.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251109_BUS_523494_ty-simpson-1-1-1024x576_66cd7483.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ty Simpson after a win" class="wp-image-501317" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ty Simpson at Sanford Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Athens, Georgia.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>All-out effort</h2>



It sounds like a cliché, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Establishing the ground game is pivotal to any team’s success. From elementary to the big leagues, in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> it’s as crucial, as well. Alabama, however, had a non-factor in the running game during the win over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/LSU" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSU</a>.


 

 

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“It’s everything. It’s an effort across the board,” DeBoer noted. “When we run on the perimeter, let’s make sure we get the blocks out there. But yeah, we certainly got to be better than what we were.”



<h2>Unsurprising</h2>



Though running back Jam Miller is one of the most exciting players in Alabama, the Crimson Tide has struggled with the rushing game all season long. Through 9 games in the 2025 NCAA campaign, Alabama registers 1,007 rushing yards (average of 111.89 yards per game), which is the third-least among SEC teams.



On the contrary, Simpson and the passing game has thrived all year long. So far, the Crimson Tide registers 2,621 passing yards (291.22 yards per game), which puts the program in third place for the most among the conference. Of course, it’s a double-edged sword, and one that can come back to bite the Tide.



Whether it’s through the air or on the ground, being one-dimensional is far from ideal. With the postseason approaching, Alabama must find a way to get everyone involved on offense. With only three games remaining, DeBoer hopes to spark that change sooner rather than later.


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Kalen DeBoer delivers clear message to Alabama football on helping out Ty Simpson after LSU win - Bolavip US

DeBoer delivers clear message to Alabama football on helping Simpson after LSU win

Injuries and setbacks continue to threaten Ryan Williams’ sophomore NCAA season. As <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kalen DeBoer</a> and the Alabama Crimson Tide (7-1, 5-0 SEC) gear up for a pivotal matchup with the LSU Tigers (5-3, 2-3), the latest injury update on the wideout provided a much-needed sigh of relief.



Disaster isn’t entirely averted, but it’s looking good for Williams to be on the field when the Tigers visit the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa. So far in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> campaign, the second-year wide receiver has missed one game (against the Missouri Tigers on October 11). 



Fortunately for DeBoer and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a>, Ty Simpson has been able to weather the storm, and weapons like Germie Bernard, Isaiah Horton, and freshman Lotzeir Brooks have stepped up to make up for Williams’ absence—as well as his inconsistent production. According to the latest SEC availability report, Williams is trending to be active against LSU in Week 11 of the NCAA.



“Alabama WR Ryan Williams is probable for LSU, per SEC availability report,” as reported by insider Pete Nakos on his X account (formerly Twitter). According to the NCAA’s availability report rules, being listed as probable means there is a 75% chance Williams will play for the Crimson Tide on Saturday.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251106_BUS_522149_ryan-williams-1024x576_146f2cc1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Williams #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide works out before game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 14, 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin." class="wp-image-414602" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ryan Williams #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide</figcaption></figure>



<h2>No team as hot as Alabama in Tuscaloosa</h2>



When hosting <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/LSU" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSU</a> at Bryant-Denny Stadium, Alabama’s home win streak will be on the line. The Crimson Tide boasts a two-year undefeated run in Tuscaloosa. The last time the Tide lost at home was on September 9th, 2023, when the Texas Longhorns defeated them 34-24. Since, Bama has won 16 consecutive home games, including 7 ranked victories.


 

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Coming into the year, only three teams in the FBS boasted longer winning streaks at home—Georgia, Oregon, and Missouri. However, DeBoer’s Alabama snapped two of those active streaks itself. Defeating the Bulldogs and Tigers on the road, Alabama secured the longest winning run in the SEC. Moreover, following Indiana’s victory over Oregon in Eugene, the Crimson Tide moved to first place among all FBS programs.



<h2>Too much history</h2>



When the Tigers and Crimson Tide meet on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday, no player will need to be reminded of the vivid history surrounding this game. The deep-rooted hatred and fierce rivalry between the two schools will be palpable in the air.



Unsurprisingly, Alabama holds the advantage in the head-to-head record against LSU. The Tide is 57-27-5 all-time versus the Tigers. Moreover, Bama has prevailed in eight of the last ten meetings between the two programs. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251106_BUS_522149_kalen-deboer-4-1024x576_59012b8f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looking up" class="wp-image-469205" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kalen DeBoer at Bryant-Denny Stadium</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Eye of the tiger</h2>



Contrary to what most college football fans might expect, the Tigers actually boast a better win percentage against the Tide when playing in the Heart of Dixie rather than the Bayou State. Though Death Valley is one of the most hostile environments in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>, LSU has only won 10 of the 43 games played in Baton Rouge (23%). On the other hand, the Tigers have walked away victorious in Alabama 17 times out of 45 (38%).



Amid a dramatic season in Baton Rouge, the Brian Kelly–less Tigers know the odds are stacked against them as they walk into Bryant-Denny Stadium. However, a tiger is most dangerous when its back is against the wall. In the SEC, it means more—and LSU knows just how much the program could benefit from a statement upset victory over No. 4 Alabama.

Alabama football discloses hopeful injury update on WR Ryan Williams

Kalen DeBoer, Alabama learn encouraging news after latest injury update on Ryan Williams - Bolavip US

Kalen DeBoer, Alabama learn latest injury update on Ryan Williams

Kalen DeBoer, Alabama learn encouraging news after latest injury update on Ryan Williams

South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback LaNorris Sellers has seemingly lost some magic during his sophomore season in college football. Still, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kalen DeBoer</a> isn’t trying his luck as the Alabama Crimson Tide pay the Gamecocks a visit in Week 9 of the 2025 NCAA campaign.



DeBoer and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a> are finally proving their worth in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. As a result, the Tide is now ranked 4th in the AP Poll. After four straight wins over ranked SEC opponents, the Crimson Tide hope to stay on this successful road when they visit the Gamecocks. South Carolina is far from its best version—3-4 in the season (1-3 in the SEC)—but DeBoer isn’t taking Sellers and Shane Beamer for granted.



“We’ve faced running backs and guys that are tough to bring down, but [Sellers] touches the ball every single play. So, you can get to him. That’s one thing. But you also, now, got to get him down,” DeBoer said about Sellers per On3. 



“It’s not gonna be just one. It’s gotta take multiple guys rallying, coming from different directions. He’s got the speed. He’s got the size. He’s just, he’s super strong. He’s a relentless player. He fights for every yard he can get.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251021_BUS_513195_lanorris-sellers-1024x576_4ff6f7e7.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="LaNorris Sellers in warmups" class="wp-image-513260" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LaNorris Sellers at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>That’s enough</h2>



Ahead of every matchup in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a>, teams pore over every second of film they can find on their opponents. When facing an SEC foe, that study becomes even more exhaustive. In games filled with history and bad blood, no coach wants to overlook a key detail that could come back to bite them. 


 

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However, when it came to Sellers, DeBoer and his staff didn’t need to spend much time watching tape—just a handful of plays were enough to make their point.



“Watched a cut-up this morning with the defensive staff, and it’s just one play after the other. There was more,” DeBoer stated. “We didn’t even need to see it all because the point was very clear, and we’ve gotta make sure our guys continue to rally.“



<h2>History behind the matchup</h2>



As DeBoer and Alabama travel for the game on Saturday, October 25, the Crimson Tide will make their sixth visit to Columbia. Fortunately for Bama, the school’s record against South Carolina is very favorable. Moreover, the Tide doesn’t seem to be too affected by being on the road.



Alabama and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/south-carolina" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Carolina</a> have faced off 17 times in college football history. The school in Tuscaloosa has the upper hand with a lopsided 14-3 record to its name. When playing on the road, Bama is 4-2. The last time the ‘Script A’ lost to the Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium was during the 2010 season, when Saban and Alabama fell 35-21 to Spurrier and South Carolina.


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Kalen DeBoer issues strong warning to Alabama on South Carolina QB LaNorris Sellers

Kalen DeBoer issues strong warning to Alabama on South Carolina QB LaNorris Sellers - Bolavip US

DeBoer issues strong warning to Alabama on South Carolina QB Sellers

Ty Simpson, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kalen DeBoer</a>, and the Alabama Crimson Tide are looking to keep their red-hot streak alive in the NCAA. With the upcoming game against the Tennessee Volunteers on the horizon, the Script A can’t afford to lose sight of its expectations.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a> is coming off a hard-fought win on the road over the Missouri Tigers. Now, the climb becomes even steeper with a matchup against Tennessee at home at Bryant-Denny Stadium. With the Third Saturday in October coming up, DeBoer voiced an honest message for Simpson and the Crimson Tide.



“It’s a great environment here. I think it’s the feeling you even have with the walk into the stadium. You can see everyone’s ready to go,” DeBoer said during his media availability, per On3. “We’d better make sure we uphold our end of the bargain too.



“That goes into the week of preparation, understanding what it’s even gonna feel like when you’re practicing on a Tuesday, the excitement that leads into wanting to make sure that we’re at the top of our game on Saturday. So, just huge to have that energy being at home. I think that would go for a lot of programs, but it’s definitely a big deal here for us.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251014_BUS_508661_kalen-deboer-1024x576_ce437a86.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looks to his side" class="wp-image-484533" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kalen DeBoer at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Run the table</h2>



Fans in Tuscaloosa have had their fair share of concerns about DeBoer since he took over as head coach for Alabama. Witnessing streaks set by Nick Saban come to an end during DeBoer’s first year on the job certainly didn’t help. However, as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Volunteers</a> walk into Bryant-Denny Stadium, the Crimson Tide hope to keep their streak over Tennessee alive.


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Alabama is 8-2 in the last ten meetings with Tennessee. Moreover, over the last 20 matchups, the Tide has only lost in three occasions. Going into the 2025 Third Saturday in October rivalry game, there is safety on the numbers for Bama. As for the Vols, they might be better off limiting themselves to the latest <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> seasons, as Tennessee has won two of the last three clashes with Alabama.



<h2>Keep it going</h2>



However, if there’s one thing the Tide can’t afford, it’s to lose this particular game. Alabama hasn’t lost at home to Tennessee since 2003. When the Volunteers walk into the stadium in Tuscaloosa, the eyes of Druid City will be fixed on DeBoer not to let the Script A down. 



After five straight wins in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> season, Alabama must keep its foot on the pedal as they take on No. 11 Tennessee on what will be the Crimson Tide’s fourth-straight ranked SEC showdown.

Kalen DeBoer issues vivid statement for Ty Simpson, Alabama ahead of Tennessee game

Kalen DeBoer issues vivid statement for Ty Simpson, Alabama ahead of Tennessee game - Bolavip US

DeBoer issues vivid statement for Simpson, Alabama ahead of Tennessee game

A heated matchup is brewing on the horizon of the SEC in the 2025 NCAA season. Diego Pavia and the Vanderbilt Commodores will look to deliver yet another statement win over Kalen DeBoer’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a> Crimson Tide.



With last year’s showdown in everybody’s recent memory, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> and Alabama will collide in what’s set to be a marquee-game in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> campaign. Ahead of the Commodores’ visit to Tuscaloosa, Pavia dropped a bold message for DeBoer and company.



“The crowd, I think, is going to be a big factor in the game,” Diego Pavia said about the game, via On3. “But we just gotta play within the white lines. If we do that, if we play our game, it won’t be close.”



<h2>How the tables turn</h2>



Last season, Alabama traveled to Nashville with sky-high confidence, boasting a 4-0 record in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. The ‘Script A’ was in for a rude awakening as the Commodores ruined their undefeated dreams. Vanderbilt held on at home for a 40-35 victory in an intense shootout. It was the first time the Tennessee school had defeated Alabama since 1984 (excluding vacated or forfeited games). 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251001_BUS_501813_kalen-deboer-4-1024x576_c43f4da7.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looking up" class="wp-image-469205" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



That 1984 triumph also marks the last time the Commodores walked out victorious on the road against the Tide. Moreover, it remains Vanderbilt’s lone win in Tuscaloosa in the program’s history.


 

 

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<h2>Chasing history</h2>



Now, Pavia and company will vie to write another historic chapter in the school’s book. This time around, Vanderbilt is walking into Bryant-Denny Stadium with a perfect 5-0 record, and it’s up to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeBoer</a> and the Crimson Tide to knock the Commodores off their perch.

Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia issues blunt warning to Kalen DeBoer, Alabama: ‘It won’t be close’

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Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia issues blunt warning to Kalen DeBoer, Alabama: 'It won’t be close' - Bolavip US

Vanderbilt's Pavia warns DeBoer, Alabama: 'It won’t be close'

Alabama’s trip to Athens to face the Georgia Bulldogs was undeniably seen as a major hurdle. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a>’s team made a statement by securing a crucial victory, with Ty Simpson emerging as the clear leader on the field.


 


Unfortunately for the Crimson Tide, not everything was positive this weekend, as news broke of a significant loss for the team. Qua Russaw, the starting linebacker and a key defensive weapon, will have to undergo surgery on one of his feet, and his return to the field remains uncertain.



The news was reported by College Football insider Matt Zenitz, who, through his official X account (formerly Twitter), confirmed this major loss for DeBoer heading into the upcoming stretch of the season.



“One negative for Alabama coming out of its win over Georgia: Starting linebacker Qua Russaw is undergoing surgery today due to a foot injury he suffered last night and is set to miss some time, sources tell @CBSSports,” the insider reported via @mzenitz.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250928_BUS_500059_qua-russaw-1024x576_85209cd6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Qua Russaw" class="wp-image-500113" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Qua Russaw #4 of the Alabama Crimson Tide.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Key loss in Tuscaloosa</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama Crimson Tide</a>‘s monumental victory over Georgia has been tempered by the significant loss of starting linebacker Qua Russaw, who is reportedly set to miss several games after undergoing surgery for a foot injury suffered during the game.


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This is a massive blow to the Tide’s defense, which already came into the contest thin at the outside linebacker position. Russaw is not only an explosive edge rusher, but his ability to effectively set the edge against the run will be sorely missed as the team moves into a critical stretch of the season. 



His absence immediately tests the depth of the unit and places immense pressure on younger players to fill the void of a versatile defender described as a “controlled aggressive” player.



<h2>What’s next for the Crimson Tide?</h2>



Following their big win in Georgia, these are the upcoming games that Kalen DeBoer and his team will face as they look to keep their strong momentum going this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College Football</a> season:


 


<ul><li>vs Vanderbilt, October 4</li><li>@ Missouri, October 11</li><li>vs Tennessee, October 18</li><li>@ South Carolina, October 25</li><li>vs LSU, November 8</li></ul>

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Ty Simpson receives significant injury update on key Alabama teammate after big win vs Georgia - Bolavip US

The SEC schedule couldn’t begin with a more electric matchup for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirby-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kirby Smart</a> and the Georgia Bulldogs. On the eve of Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide’s visit, the head coach in Athens issued a firm statement.



All eyes in the NCAA will be on Sanford Stadium this Saturday, where two SEC powerhouses collide as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/georgia-bulldogs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia</a> hosts Alabama in the second leg of their home-and-home series. Last season, the Crimson Tide eked out a nail-biting 41-34 win. Now, the Dawgs are determined to avenge past defeats against their long-time rival.



This time around, the showdown will take place in Athens. In the Peach State, the Dawgs are hungry, and Smart made that clear with a message warning DeBoer and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crimson Tide</a>.



<h2>Smart’s comment</h2>



“They’re hungry,” Smart said about Georgia’s players, per On3. “They’re ready to get after it. They want to challenge. It was tough at Tennessee. I’m excited to see these guys go play. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250924_BUS_497876_kalen-deboer-4-1024x576_02b837e2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looking up" class="wp-image-469205" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



“They want an opportunity to go play and get after it. It’s going to be a fun game. [The Crimson Tide have] a really big physical offensive line. They can maul you and bully you. [Alabama has] got big, good backs. It’s going to be a great challenge for our front against their line.”


 

 

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<h2>Lopsided history</h2>



If there’s a program Smart has struggled against, it’s definitely the Alabama Crimson Tide. Then again, so have most schools in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a>. After last year’s defeat at Bryant-Denny Stadium, Smart’s personal record against Bama fell to 1-6.



Smart owns a 1-5 mark against Nick Saban, and last year he lost in his first matchup with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeBoer</a>. However, much can change as the Dawgs host the Script A in Athens. Smart and Georgia will certainly hope the coin lands on their side this time.



<h2>Something’s got to give</h2>



While most fans would assume Georgia and Alabama meet every season, still that’s not entirely true. On September 27, the Roll Tide will visit the Dawgs at Sanford Stadium for the first time since 2015. Now, something’s got to give.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68d4466d7193bec65e18da71" data-title="Who will win?" data-options="2"></div>


Georgia is undefeated at home since 2019. As a result, the Dawgs carry an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>-best 33-straight win streak in Athens. However, the Crimson Tide haven’t lost at Sanford Stadium since 2003. After Saturday night’s showdown, only one streak will be left standing.

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Kirby Smart puts Kalen DeBoer, Alabama on notice with bold message before visit to Georgia - Bolavip US

Smart puts DeBoer, Alabama on notice before visit to Georgia

A season-opening loss in this college football campaign brought a wave of criticism toward <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a>. However, through hard work and quick adjustments, he managed to turn things around immediately. Led by an outstanding Ty Simpson, the Alabama Crimson Tide took care of the Wisconsin Badgers in Tuscaloosa, improving their record to 2–1.



Alabama’s starting quarterback is enjoying a strong run of form and knows he has plenty of offensive weapons at his disposal to fully showcase his talent.



Following the game — which ended in a 38–14 win for the home team — the experienced head coach spoke at the postgame press conference and praised Simpson’s performance on the field.



“He’s really, I think, in the last two games slowed the game down, just stayed within himself, just where his head’s moving, where he’s seeing and going through his read progressions, he’s been so disciplined on it. I think it continues to feed on itself when he stays the course and trusts the guys around him. He doesn’t try to do too much. The reads will take you where the ball needs to go.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250913_BUS_491217_ty-simpson-3-1024x576_fcbbcca7.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ty Simpson quarterback" class="wp-image-491233" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ty Simpson #15 of the Alabama Crimson Tide.</figcaption></figure>



DeBoer also added: “It isn’t a talent question. He can throw the ball where it needs to go, and he’s been super accurate. Unfortunately we dropped a few balls for him at the end and we’re going to need those, but he’s been playing really well the last two weeks. I think he’s risen to the occasion. I think we challenged him last week a little bit and I like where his head’s at.“


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<h2>Bouncing back from adversity</h2>



After a stunning season-opening loss to the Florida State Seminoles that sent shockwaves through the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> world, the Alabama Crimson Tide have quickly silenced their critics. Weathering the initial storm of doubt and media scrutiny, the team has found its rhythm, securing back-to-back decisive victories. 



Following a dominant performance against ULM, the Crimson Tide proved they are back on track with a hard-fought win over a quality Wisconsin team. While the early-season stumble remains a talking point, these two wins have shown the resilience and talent of a team that is once again looking like a formidable force in the national championship conversation.



<h2>Williams is back</h2>



If there was one thing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a>’s offense needed, it was for their star wide receiver, Ryan Williams, to finally become the player everyone in Tuscaloosa had been waiting for.



“I think he was just hungry to get back out there and do what he does. So this last week he wanted to be better then he was in week one, so he went back to work. It was good to see him and Ty connect,” DeBoer said about Williams.



“Nice to see some easy throws that I think get a guy going, both Ryan and Ty, but also some of those deep sideline throws. Those aren’t the easiest. So they worked extremely hard on those. They were very intentional to make sure the timing of those routes was good all week long in practice, and they went out and executed. Good to see him do his thing. He’s obviously crazy explosive when he’s got the ball in his hands.”

Ty Simpson receives clear message from Kalen DeBoer after Alabama’s big win over Wisconsin

Ty Simpson receives clear message from Kalen DeBoer after Alabama’s big win over Wisconsin - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a> confirmed a former teammate of Jalen Milroe and the Alabama Crimson Tide has left the program. Years after choosing Bama over Arch Manning’s Texas Longhorns, his journey in Tuscaloosa came to an end. Though two weeks into the 2025 NCAA season, news of his departure had been kept from surfacing. 



There’s never a dull day in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>. With programs and storylines in every corner of the nation, the news flow never stops. Now, the spotlight is upon the Crimson Tide, who have work to do to right their wrongs.



The Tide will have to do so without an important element in the offensive side of the ball. Sophomore wide receiver Aeryn “Bubba” Hampton was expected to be a key contributor for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a>, after barely seeing the field last season. However, the second-year student is no longer on campus.



“Bubba has not been with us for quite a while,” Kalen DeBoer confirmed the wideout’s departure during the weekly SEC Coaches Teleconference. “Going into early fall camp.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250910_BUS_489593_arch-manning-21-1024x576_4700fec5.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Arch Manning Texas Longhorns" class="wp-image-486947" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Arch Manning of the Texas Longhorns reacts after rushing for a touchdown.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Change of plans</h2>



Hampton had joined the Crimson Tide after flipping his commitment to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns">University of Texas</a>, where he could’ve played with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arch-manning">Manning</a>. However, his time in Tuscaloosa was far from memorable.


 

 

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In the 2024 college football season, Hampton appeared in just three games, recording a single reception for six yards. The true freshman opted to redshirt, preserving another year of eligibility at the collegiate level. Now, he’s eyeing his next step in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a>. The reason behind his departure remains uncertain, leaving the wideout’s future options unclear.



<h2>Quick update</h2>



While Hampton could’ve played a bigger role for Alabama, fans in Tuscaloosa are more concerned about the injury status of sophomore stand-out Ryan Williams. After sustaining a head injury during Alabama’s season-opener vs Florida State, Williams missed the action during the Tide’s 73-0 win over UL Monroe. 



However, hope remains he’ll be active next Saturday. As DeBoer admitted, the Crimson Tide expect Williams to play when they host the Wisconsin Badgers at Bryant-Denny Stadium at 12:00p.m. ET.

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NCAAF News: Kalen DeBoer's Alabama secretly parted ways with key player who turned down Arch Manning's Texas - Bolavip US

DeBoer's Alabama secretly parted ways with key player who turned down Manning's Texas

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a> and the Alabama Crimson Tide got off to a rough start in the 2025 NCAA season. After losing to the Florida State Seminoles in college football’s kickoff week, the Tide’s head coach issued a sincere statement.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a> hoped to leave the drama behind after the disappointing 2024 campaign. However, it didn’t make it past the opening week for chaos to break loose in Tuscaloosa. Now, DeBoer and the Crimson Tide are in the eye of the storm.



It might be an exaggeration on the fans’ part, but many believe DeBoer’s seat should be heating up. Of course, it’s much easier said by the students than done by the brass, as it would require a hefty buyout to terminate the head coach’s contract.



Still, DeBoer isn’t letting the outside noise get to him. Instead, the 50-year-old head coach in Tuscaloosa has dropped a bold statement on the football program, despite the string of disappointing results.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250903_BUS_484525_alabama-FSU-1024x576_27efde80.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-484579" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ty Simpson scrambles away from pressure from James Williams </figcaption></figure>



“I think we’ve got a really good football, I think we have a good football team that can do some big things still this year,” DeBoer stated during the SEC’s weekly coaches teleconference. “But we’ve got to prove it and we’ve got to go do it. To this point, it’s been just me being able to focus on football, and I appreciate that.”


 

 

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<h2>Unrecognizable</h2>



Filling in as head coach after Nick Saban’s exit was never going to be an easy mission. The transition was expected to be rough, but DeBoer’s time has been even more turbulent than envisioned. Now, the Crimson Tide looks nowhere near to the program that dominated the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> for over a decade.



College football has changed lots, but that doesn’t take any responsibility off DeBoer and the staff in Tuscaloosa. Alabama had one of the best recruiting classes across the country, but the on-the-field product against Florida State was one that left fans puzzled. The Tide looked lost and, for the first time ever, soft was an adjective fitting for their outing. At least, former quarterback AJ McCarron believes so.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This FSU Touchdown tells you everything about this game to which team wanted this game more with max effort vs weakness <a href="https://t.co/tP9G6sihCm">pic.twitter.com/tP9G6sihCm</a>— College Ball King (@collegeballking) <a href="https://twitter.com/collegeballking/status/1961927473429430286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



“We as a team are soft up front on both sides of the football,” McCarron said, via The Dynasty podcast. “Absolutely dominated from an offensive line standpoint – and maybe this lights a fire under them or, maybe they don’t care at all — (but Alabama was) absolutely dominated from an O-line standpoint. Extremely soft, no nastiness up front whatsoever, just getting pushed around.”



<h2>Plummet</h2>



Ranked 8th in the AP Top 25 Poll going into the 2025 NCAA season, Alabama has fallen to the 21st spot after the loss to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-state">FSU</a>. It’s the school’s worst ranking in over 17 years. However, this is also the lowest in-season ranking in that span. The last time Bama was outside the top 20 was during the 2008 preseason, when it sat in 24th place. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68b883477193bec65e18d774" data-title="If DeBoer misses out on the playoffs again, should he be fired?" data-options="3"></div>


Since DeBoer took over as head coach, a concerning trend has started to brew in Tuscaloosa. Last season was the first time Bama fell below the 10-win bar set by Saban, and now the Tide has hit another unwanted milestone. It’s becoming unbearable for fans who have grown used to dominating the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> landscape. DeBoer must turn the tide, or the Tide will turn on him irreparably.

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Kalen DeBoer breaks silence on where Alabama stands after disheartening loss against Florida State - Bolavip US

DeBoer breaks silence on where Alabama stands after disheartening loss against Florida State

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama Crimson Tide</a> started its College Football campaign with a devastating loss to the Florida State Seminoles. That was not the only bad thing to happen to the team since one of the best wide receivers on the roster, Ryan Williams, suffered an injury that forced him out of the game. Bama’s head coach, Kalen DeBoer, gave a clear answer regarding the player’s status.



Speaking after the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeBoer</a> told the media what’s going on with Williams. “Yeah, he got a concussion,” he said. This puts Williams in doubt for the next game against UL Monroe. 



Alongside the wideout, Jam Miller and Tim Keenan III’s status are also up in the air. Both missed the game against Florida State. Williams ended with only five catches for 30 yards.



<h2>Ryan Williams should be one of the best receivers in CFB</h2>



Last season, Williams posted 865 yards in 48 catches and eight touchdowns. Williams, if able to recover, should be poised for a big game. Not only are they going against lesser competition, but they need to bounce back from this last defeat.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250831_BUS_482770_ryan-williams-1024x576_cd5a3a09.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Williams is an Alabama wideout" class="wp-image-482789" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ryan Williams #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide.</figcaption></figure>



UL Monroe and then Wisconsin should serve as confidence boosters before facing fifth-ranked Georgia. While Alabama itself has questions, especially after this defeat, it should start going into better form in the next couple of weeks.



<h2>QB play is a big question mark</h2>



Quarterbacks are not something that Alabama has missed historically. However, Ty Simpson is a four-year Junior, which means he’s not seen as one of the top prospects in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College Football</a>. 



Simpson falls short of other names that have been under center in Alabama. This marks the third season were the Crimson Tide don’t have a top-tier prospect at quarterback. The last great one was Bryce Young back in 2022. Since then, Jalen Milroe, Tyler Buchner and Ty Simpson haven’t been able to reach the heights of others.

Kalen DeBoer’s five-word message on Ryan Williams’ injury doesn’t ease concern in Alabama

Gus Malzahn rubs salt in the wounds of Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama after dominant Florida State debut

Ty Simpson receives key advice from Kalen DeBoer following Alabama’s tough loss to Florida State

Kalen DeBoer's five-word message on Ryan Williams' injury doesn't ease concern in Alabama - Bolavip US

It simply wasn’t <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer">Kalen DeBoer</a> nor Alabama Crimson Tide’s night. The Florida State Seminoles rag-dolled them in the opening week of college football, and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn found the perfect chance to take a shot at the program he despises the most. 



If DeBoer and Bama wanted to wipe the slate clean after the 2024 NCAA season, then the Crimson Tide did anything but that. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a> underperformed tremendously in the first test of the new campaign, and question marks are floating incessantly in Tuscaloosa.



Malzahn and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-state">Seminoles</a> had a plan for when the Tide walked into the Doak. And they pulled it off to perfection. All the talk in the summer paid off as Thomas Castellanos and Florida State blew Alabama out of the water in Tallahassee. 



Now, it was Malzahn’s time to rub salt in the wounds, and he did so through social media. “Felt like old times tonight!!” Gus Malzahn wrote on his X, formerly Twitter, account.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250831_BUS_482621_kalen-deboer-4-1024x576_9ba2ebaf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looking up " class="wp-image-469205" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide against the Georgia Bulldogs at Bryant-Denny Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Runs deep</h2>



It’s no secret Malzahn is a top public enemy in Alabama, and the Crimson Tide are far from a liked program for the offensive coordinator in the Sunshine State. Malzahn may have made his debut at his job position in ‘Tally’, but he’s not new to facing Bama.


 

 

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Malzahn spent eight seasons as head coach for the Auburn Tigers in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a>. During that span, his grudge for the Crimson Tide only grew. As head coach in Auburn, Malzahn had a 3-5 record against Alabama. 



Moreover, he watched as the school in Tuscaloosa hoisted <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>‘s national championship three times. It won’t be enough to close the wounds, but Saturday’s dominant showing against the Tide could be just what the doctor ordered for Malzahn.



<h2>Panic button</h2>



Fans in Tuscaloosa can’t help but feel bad about how fast times have changed for the Crimson Tide. Not so long ago, the program was a juggernaut and the team to beat in college football. Now, it seems to have missed its identity.


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Kalen DeBoer isn’t on the hot seat, but it’s not getting any cooler either. Embarrassing losses—like the one to Florida State—aren’t doing him any favors. It’s time to turn the page or burn the books entirely. The Tide must change course, or the pressure in Alabama will become unfathomable.

Nick Saban is blunt when discussing Kalen DeBoer and his second year leading Alabama

Gus Malzahn rubs salt in the wounds of Kalen DeBoer's Alabama after dominant Florida State debut - Bolavip US

Malzahn rubs salt in the wounds of DeBoer's Alabama after dominant Florida State debut

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