A recurring issue from Kalen DeBoer’s inaugural season must be addressed for the Crimson Tide to maintain their status as the benchmark of college football excellence. Specifically, Alabama suffered three unexpected losses in games they were favored to win, a stark contrast to the consistency exhibited during Nick Saban’s tenure.The pattern was unmistakable—Alabama dropped three games it was expected to win. This is an area where Nick Saban thrived, as he seldom fell victim to so-called “trap games.”
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer reflects on strategy against Tennessee.
On October 19, 2024, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer was seen observing his team before their matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. (Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin – Imagn Images)
If Alabama wants to maintain its reputation as the gold standard in college football, one concerning trend from DeBoer’s first season must be addressed.
A major issue was Alabama losing three games it was expected to win—something Nick Saban rarely allowed to happen. Saban had a knack for avoiding upsets in so-called “trap games,” a quality that set him apart.
However, Alabama performed well in high-stakes matchups in 2024. The clash between Alabama and Georgia was regarded by many as the game of the year, generating immense anticipation. The game delivered on expectations, with Alabama surging ahead early and Georgia mounting a comeback. In the end, Alabama secured the victory, solidifying its status as a top contender for the National Championship.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer reflects on a play against Tennessee.
On October 19, 2024, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer observed his team before their matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. (Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-Imagn Images)
If Alabama wants to maintain its status as a powerhouse in college football, one concerning trend from DeBoer’s first season must be addressed.
The issue was clear—Alabama lost three games it was expected to win. This was an area where former head coach Nick Saban thrived, as he rarely fell victim to so-called “trap games.”
However, in 2024, Alabama excelled in high-stakes matchups. The showdown against Georgia was one of the most anticipated games of the year, living up to the hype as Alabama surged ahead before Georgia mounted a comeback. The Crimson Tide ultimately secured the victory, positioning themselves as National Championship favorites.
Another crucial game was against LSU, widely considered a de facto playoff game, with the winner keeping its postseason hopes alive. Alabama dominated, running through the Tigers for a 42-13 victory.
The Iron Bowl also carried its usual intensity, with Auburn players fueling the rivalry with pregame comments. With playoff hopes still hanging by a thread, Alabama delivered a strong performance, defeating Auburn 28-14.
In contrast, Alabama’s losses to Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma lacked the same level of national attention. The Vanderbilt game followed the Georgia win and was seen as a lopsided matchup.
Tennessee, despite having just one loss, was struggling after narrowly escaping Florida. Meanwhile, Oklahoma was simply fighting for bowl eligibility before shocking Alabama with a 24-3 victory.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer reflects on strategy against Tennessee.
On October 19, 2024, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer observed from the sidelines before facing the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. (Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin – Imagn Images)
One noticeable issue from DeBoer’s first season must be addressed if Alabama wants to maintain its reputation as the pinnacle of college football excellence.
The problem was clear—Alabama dropped three games it was expected to win. This was an area where Nick Saban thrived, rarely falling victim to so-called “trap games.”
However, when the stakes were high, Alabama delivered in 2024. The showdown against Georgia was regarded as one of the most anticipated games of the year, living up to the hype as the Crimson Tide surged ahead before the Bulldogs mounted a comeback. Alabama ultimately secured the win, solidifying its status as a National Championship favorite.
Later in the season, Alabama’s matchup with LSU carried significant playoff implications—the winner would stay in the hunt, while the loser’s chances would be eliminated. The Tide dominated, crushing the Tigers 42-13.
The Iron Bowl brought its usual heated rivalry, with Auburn players adding fuel to the fire by taking jabs at Alabama. A win was crucial for the Tide to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Alabama responded with a commanding 28-14 victory.
In contrast, Alabama’s losses to Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma lacked the same level of anticipation. The Vanderbilt game came just a week after the Georgia win and seemed like a mismatch on paper.
Tennessee was struggling despite having only one loss, barely scraping past Florida. Meanwhile, Oklahoma was simply fighting for bowl eligibility before shocking Alabama with a 24-3 defeat.
Throughout 2024, Alabama struggled with consistency in multiple areas, impacting the team’s overall performance.
As DeBoer enters his second year in Tuscaloosa, the challenge ahead is clear—ensuring the team is prepared to compete at a high level every week.
