After being left out of the playoffs, Alabama could lose a weapon in their wide receiver room as true freshman Caleb Odom has entered the NCAA transfer portal. This move could mean a significant loss for the Crimson Tide, as Jalen Milroe and Kalen DeBoer may see a promising talent head to Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes.
When it rains, it pours in Alabama. The Tide’s season has been nothing short of disappointing. The final blow to their hopes and goals was delivered as the CFP Selection Committee left them out of the postseason, following Clemson’s win over SMU. This exclusion has left fans and players alike reeling, as Alabama has long been a powerhouse in college football.
Unfortunately for the Crimson Tide, trouble doesn’t stop there. Odom, a highly touted recruit standing at 6-foot-5 and labeled as a five-star prospect, is expected to visit Sanders in Boulder. While he showed promise in DeBoer’s program, he spent much of the season on the sidelines, starting only one game against Mercer. Odom finished the season with just seven receptions for 65 yards, a far cry from the breakout year he had hoped for. Meanwhile, fellow freshman Ryan Williams emerged as Milroe’s primary target, leaving Odom feeling overshadowed.
A fresh start in Boulder?
The landscape in Boulder looks promising for many transferring talents in college football. Colorado had an astounding season during Coach Prime’s second year at the helm, barely missing out on the Big 12 Title game and securing bowl eligibility. With the Buffaloes on the rise, Odom may find a new home in Colorado, especially with the departure of Travis Hunter, which opens up an exciting possibility for a new WR1 to emerge in Sanders’ program.
Moreover, as Shedeur Sanders prepares to leave for the NFL, Colorado has signed five-star quarterback recruit Julian Lewis. This move suggests that the Buffaloes may have their successor at the QB position, creating an enticing environment for incoming players. In contrast, Alabama’s quarterback situation remains uncertain, as Milroe has yet to declare for the Draft, leaving fans anxious about the future.
Alabama’s offensive challenges
During the 2024 NCAA season, Alabama’s offense heavily relied on two players for their passing game: Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard. Aside from these two, not many receivers saw significant action in DeBoer’s game plan. This reliance on a limited number of players has raised questions about the depth and versatility of the receiving corps.
This frustrating year has served as a learning experience for DeBoer and his coaching staff, and changes may be brewing in Tuscaloosa. In an effort to bolster their offense, the program has signed four-star WR Lotzeir Brooks, hoping to add another key contributor. Will this new addition be enough to fill the void if Odom decides to transfer?
The potential loss of a star
Odom is still weighing his options for his next destination, but all signs point to a fitting landing in Boulder. Being coached by Deion Sanders in a program that has captured national attention could be the fresh start Odom needs. The allure of playing for a rising program, combined with the chance to showcase his skills, may prove irresistible.
As Alabama faces the prospect of losing Odom, the team will need to regroup and refocus. The disappointment of missing the playoffs is still fresh, and now the potential departure of a talented receiver adds another layer of complexity to their offseason. Will Milroe and DeBoer be able to attract new talent to fill the gaps left by departing players?
In the world of college football, the transfer portal has become a vital tool for players seeking new opportunities. With the landscape constantly shifting, Alabama will need to adapt quickly to maintain its status as a powerhouse. The stakes are high, and every decision made in the coming weeks will be crucial for the future of the program.
As fans eagerly await updates on Odom’s decision and the overall direction of both Alabama and Colorado, one thing is clear: the college football landscape is as dynamic as ever. With the potential for new stars to emerge and established programs to face challenges, the excitement surrounding the upcoming season is palpable. Will Alabama be able to bounce back from this tumultuous year, or will Colorado continue to rise as a formidable contender in college football? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the game we love is always full of surprises.
