The Alabama Crimson Tide are gearing up for a crucial 2025 season, determined to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs and fall short of their usual 10-win standard. With Kalen DeBoer at the helm in his second year in Tuscaloosa, the stakes are high, and the pressure is on.
A pivotal opening matchup
The Crimson Tide will kick off their 2025 NCAA campaign against the Florida State Seminoles in Tallahassee. This matchup is not just another game on the schedule; it could be a defining moment for both teams. With over six months to prepare, both sides are acutely aware that they cannot afford a repeat of last year’s struggles.
Quarterback battle heats up
Alabama’s expectations are sky-high for DeBoer and the roster, but they face a significant concern at the most critical position: quarterback. The starting job is wide open, and three contenders are set to battle it out during the spring: Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and the highly touted five-star freshman Keelon Russell, who is expected to step in for Jalen Milroe.
In a bold move that could shape the quarterback battle, DeBoer has decided to keep Nick Sheridan as the quarterbacks coach for the upcoming season. Despite the struggles of last year, Sheridan’s experience will be vital in developing the next generation of Alabama quarterbacks. While Ryan Grubb, the newly signed offensive coordinator, will continue to call plays, Sheridan will maintain his role in the QB room and may even take on co-offensive coordinator responsibilities.
Maximizing talent on offense
The Alabama offense is set to undergo a transformation under Grubb’s leadership. One player to keep an eye on is Ryan Williams, a wideout who just turned 18. Grubb’s strategy will focus on maximizing the talents of young players like Williams, ensuring they are ready to make an impact on the field.
DeBoer’s confidence in Milroe
As the NFL season wraps up and the draft approaches, the spotlight is on quarterbacks. The 2025 class features a diverse range of signal-callers, from pocket passers to dual-threats. However, there is skepticism surrounding many of these prospects, as they often require time to develop—a luxury that today’s NFL teams may not have.
Milroe is one of those quarterbacks who many believe needs significant development before he can become a reliable starter. Yet, DeBoer isn’t shy about drawing parallels between Milroe’s situation and that of two-time MVP Lamar Jackson. “I think it’s that style of play that would be a great fit for him for sure,” DeBoer remarked, emphasizing the potential for success with the right support and development.
Building a winning culture
DeBoer believes that the right environment is crucial for a quarterback’s growth. “It’s a matter of being around the right people as you continue to develop and grow,” he stated. This philosophy will be essential as Alabama seeks to build a winning culture and return to its former glory.
As the Crimson Tide prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the quarterback competition and how DeBoer manages the transition from Milroe to a new leader under center. With a talented roster and a clear vision for the future, Alabama is poised to reclaim its place among college football’s elite.
The journey ahead is filled with challenges, but with the right decisions and a commitment to development, the Alabama Crimson Tide could very well rise to the occasion and make a statement in the 2025 season. Will they be able to overcome last year’s disappointments and return to the top? Only time will tell, but the excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the kickoff against Florida State.
