Alabama’s college football landscape is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025 season approaches. FanDuel Sportsbook has set the Crimson Tide’s win total at 8.5, a figure that reflects both the challenges and opportunities facing the program under head coach Kalen DeBoer. After a 9-4 finish in his inaugural season, the stakes are high for year two.
Looking Back at 2024
The 2024 season marked a significant turning point for Alabama. It was the first time since Nick Saban’s debut in 2007 that the Crimson Tide failed to reach the coveted 10-win mark. This shift has left fans and analysts alike pondering what the future holds. How will DeBoer navigate the challenges ahead, especially with a roster that has undergone considerable changes?
Roster Changes and Challenges
Alabama has seen a significant turnover, losing 24 players to the NCAA transfer portal since the end of the regular season. To compound the issue, the team has only managed to bring back eight players from that group. Currently, their transfer portal class ranks last in the SEC, raising eyebrows across the college football landscape. But amidst these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope. DeBoer has assembled the No. 3 recruiting class for the upcoming season, signaling that the future could be bright in Tuscaloosa.
Quarterback Conundrum
One of the most pressing concerns for Alabama is the quarterback position. The departure of two-year starter Jalen Milroe leaves a void that needs to be filled. DeBoer has acknowledged the lack of experience in the quarterback room, which now includes former five-star recruit Ty Simpson, who has seen limited action in his first three seasons. Alongside him are former Washington transfer Austin Mack and Five-Star Plus+ prospect, incoming true freshman Keelon Russell.
As spring camp approaches, Simpson appears to be the frontrunner for the starting job. With 381 career passing yards and a knack for making plays on the ground—totaling three rushing touchdowns in the last two seasons—he brings a unique skill set to the table. Will he rise to the occasion and lead the Crimson Tide back to glory?
A Challenging Schedule Ahead
Looking ahead, Alabama’s schedule for the 2025 season is nothing short of daunting. The Crimson Tide will kick off their campaign with a challenging road game against Florida State on August 30. Just two weeks later, they will host Wisconsin in Tuscaloosa, a rematch after their previous visit to Madison in 2024. These early matchups will set the tone for the season and test the team’s mettle.
Following the Wisconsin game, Alabama dives straight into SEC play. The road only gets tougher as they face Georgia on September 27 after a bye week. With such a demanding schedule, how will the Crimson Tide adapt and perform?
Key SEC Matchups
The Crimson Tide will be looking for redemption against Vanderbilt in Week 6 after suffering a loss last season. Following that, they will face a grueling stretch of games against Missouri, Tennessee, South Carolina, and LSU. This sequence of matchups offers little respite and will require the team to be in peak form. Can Alabama rise to the occasion and reclaim its status as a powerhouse in college football?
Vegas Weighs In
With all these factors in play, it’s no surprise that Vegas has set the win total for Alabama at 8.5. This line serves as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for DeBoer and his squad. The optimism surrounding the recruiting class and the potential of the returning players must translate into on-field success. Will the Crimson Tide meet, exceed, or fall short of expectations in 2025?
In conclusion, the upcoming season for Alabama is filled with questions, challenges, and opportunities. The combination of a tough schedule, a reshaped roster, and the quest for a new starting quarterback creates an intriguing narrative for fans and analysts alike. As the Crimson Tide prepares for the 2025 season, one thing is certain: the passion for college football in Tuscaloosa is alive and well, and the stakes have never been higher. Can Kalen DeBoer lead Alabama back to its winning ways? Only time will tell.
