It's time to move forward for the Alabama Crimson Tide following a disappointing 2024 campaign. The program just went through an exciting spring camp, with the annual A-Day taking place on Saturday. DeBoer knows the pressure is on for him to deliver in Year 2.
Other than the 9-4 record last campaign, one of the biggest knocks DeBoer received from the fanbase was that he was too stiff on the sidelines and that he barely showed any emotion. Previously, you'd see an animated Nick Saban on the Alabama sideline consistently.
This wasn't the case with DeBoer, but it turns out there's a good reason for that. Last week, DeBoer revealed that it's not his focus to rip into players during a game. Instead, he's focused on building guys up and mentally going after himself if there's some sort of a problem:
Kalen DeBoer on the knock he’s not demonstrative enough on the sideline: “If there’s anyone I’m yelling at, it’s internally at myself. Maybe the week of prep is different. But on Saturdays, we're in the fight together. I learned way back not to overreact and keep guys focused.”
— Chris Low (@ClowESPN) April 9, 2025
Kalen DeBoer explained why he might not look overly passionate on the sidelines
Is this a good enough response from DeBoer? Hey, we don't have a problem at all with how he handles himself in 2025, but that's only if more wins are posted. Not reaching 10 Ws and missing out on the College Football Playoff was not what anyone expected in Year 1.
The season before, DeBoer helped power the Washington Huskies to the National Championship Game. While UW lost to Michigan with the trophy on the line, DeBoer solidified himself as one of the best coaches in all of college football. His memorable stay in Seattle also opened the door for Alabama to come calling.
Come this fall, Alabama must record a 180. Jalen Milroe is off to the NFL, but all signs are pointing to veteran signal-caller Ty Simpson winning the starting job. DeBoer will be counting on him, should he indeed start Week 1, to get the Crimson Tide back where they belong among the best in the SEC. Alabama simply can't record another mediocre season. If it does, DeBoer's seat will surely start to heat up.