Kalen DeBoer was hired to replace Nick Saban in January and sparked a new era of college football at the University of Alabama. A program that epitomized greatness for more than 15 years is going to look very different under its first head coach since 2006.
The culture has completely swung in a new direction and Crimson Tide fans aren’t sure what to think!
Saban’s legacy in Tuscaloosa was defined by six national titles, nine SEC championships and 133 NFL Draft picks. His brand of ‘Joyless Murderball’ punished inferior opponents with brute strength. It was all business, all the time. Nothing short of perfection would do.
And even when greatness occurred, it was on to the next thing. Next play, next practice, next game, etc.
Although Saban is actually still employed by the university on a pretty lucrative salary, DeBoer is the man in charge. He only got his first FBS head coaching opportunity in 2020 but has quickly risen through the ranks and led Washington to a 14-1 record last season. His approach to the game presents a contrast to the man who came before him.
Jalen Milroe detailed the difference during a conversation with Connor O’Gara of Saturday Down South.
The rising senior quarterback will be the incumbent starter this fall. He quickly realized that the past is not the present after a great throw during the spring practice period. Milroe did not celebrate with his teammates and DeBoer was confused as to why not. Saban wouldn’t have wanted him to do so.
For Kalen DeBoer to encourage his players to have fun is a great thing. And his recent track record proves that a more loose approach to college football can work.
However, Alabama fans are used to Nick Saban’s philosophy so they are starting to panic (check the SDS replies) about the change. There was no joy in the past and it always worked. They are skeptical of fun!