What do Alabama Crimson Tide fans want most for Christmas? A Rose Bowl win over the Indiana Hoosiers is perhaps number one on many gift lists. While marching on in the playoffs would be a late, but lovely Christmas gift, there is something of greater value. It is to be given rather than received, as the greatest Christmas joys always are.
The best gift Alabama football fans can give the Crimson Tide program is to shed all doubt about Kalen DeBoer. Alabama's transition from Nick Saban to DeBoer has been less than perfect. Some may say far less, but no coach could ever follow Saban and replicate the GOAT's success.
Hannah Stephens recently wrote a thoughtful piece with the same perspective, saying about DeBoer, "He followed a legend. He inherited a program that doesn’t allow patience, doesn’t tolerate excuses, and doesn’t care how difficult the transition is supposed to be. At Alabama, you win, or you’re questioned. Sometimes loudly."
Yes, the expectations of Alabama Crimson Tide fans are insane. A national championship season or bust, with no in-between, is the burden of every Alabama football coach. That is the price to be paid when leading college football's best-ever program.
Almost two years ago, the Alabama football program bestowed a gift of unparalleled tradition on Kalen DeBoer. That gift could not include the culture of the Nick Saban Era. A new culture had to be created and nurtured by DeBoer. Had he not accomplished that task so masterfully, Alabama would have never recovered from a 17-0 deficit in Norman, OK.
Gaylord Family Stadium was a cauldron, fueled by hate of the Alabama Crimson Tide. A lesser team would have crumbled. Alabama adjusted, fought back, and persevered. The Crimson Tide prevailed because of belief in themselves and each other, a belief instilled by Kalen DeBoer and his staff.
Hannah Stephens is correct: "This season has been a test. Of patience. Of trust. Of belief."
"Kalen DeBoer has passed it, not by being perfect, but by being steady when things weren’t. By leading when it was hard. By staying when speculation said he wouldn’t. Alabama football doesn’t just need a great coach; it needs a leader who can weather the storm without ever losing direction."
"That’s exactly who Kalen DeBoer has proven himself to be."
Whatever happens in Pasadena, whether it is an Alabama win I expect or a disappointing loss, it is time for Alabama football fans to quit doubting Kalen DeBoer.