On "The Josh Pate College Football Show," analyst Josh Pate recently delved into the challenges and opportunities facing Alabama’s football program as they transition into the 2025 season under head coach Kalen DeBoer. After a 9-4 record in 2024, which concluded with a disappointing loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the Crimson Tide are looking to redefine their identity.
Roster stability as a game-changer
One of the most significant advantages Pate highlighted for DeBoer is the newfound roster stability. With several transfer portal windows now behind them, the program has seen a natural selection process that has allowed players who weren’t fully committed to DeBoer’s system to leave. This means that the team can focus on developing players who are aligned with the new coach’s vision.
“Because the folks who wanted to hit the exit door have had time to hit the exit door,” Pate explained. “There have been multiple portal windows now since he took over there, so the ones that aren’t on board with his way of doing things—they’re gone.” This turnover could be crucial in building a cohesive unit that can execute DeBoer’s strategies effectively.
Reflecting on a challenging debut season
Alabama’s 2024 season was a mixed bag for DeBoer, who took over the reins after the legendary Nick Saban’s retirement. The team faced a steep learning curve, and Pate emphasized that following a coaching legend brings its own set of pressures. "All of a sudden, you’re known as the guy who took over for Saban and went five and seven his first year, and believe me, it can happen,” Pate noted, referencing Florida State coach Mike Norvell’s experiences.
Despite the challenges, DeBoer’s first season still featured some bright spots. The Tide secured wins against notable opponents, including a thrilling victory over No. 2 Georgia. However, the season’s end left much to be desired, particularly with the loss to Michigan, which underscored the need for improvement.
Looking ahead: A new era for Alabama football
As the Crimson Tide prepare for the 2025 season, Pate anticipates a shift in the atmosphere surrounding Alabama football. While he admits uncertainty remains regarding on-field performance, he believes that the program’s approach will feel markedly different. “The way they’ll go about trying to achieve on the field, though—the way they’ll run that program—it should feel different. I guarantee it feels different,” he stated.
With a full offseason under DeBoer’s leadership, the 2025 outlook for Alabama is shaping up to be a fascinating storyline in college football. The combination of roster stability and a fresh coaching philosophy could set the stage for a resurgence.
Key roster changes and recruiting efforts
Alabama football entered a new era under Kalen DeBoer last season, and roster turnover is a major storyline. The Crimson Tide saw key departures to the NFL and the transfer portal, but they also brought in elite talent to maintain their championship aspirations.
Notable additions for the 2025 season include:
- QB Keelon Russell (HS) – 5-star recruit
- WR Isaiah Horton (TP)
- WR Derek Meadows (HS)
- IOL Michael Carroll (HS) – 5-star recruit
- DL Kelby Collins (TP)
- CB Dijon Lee (HS) – 5-star recruit
- SAF Ivan Taylor (HS)
Conversely, the team will also have to contend with significant departures:
- QB Jalen Milroe (NFL)
- RB Justice Haynes (TP)
- OT Elijah Pritchett (TP)
- IOL Tyler Booker (NFL)
- DL Damon Payne (TP)
- LB Jihaad Campbell (NFL)
- SAF Malachi Moore (NFL)
Recent performance and recruiting rankings
The Alabama Crimson Tide have consistently recruited at an elite level during the tenures of both former coach Nick Saban and DeBoer. Their recruiting prowess has remained strong, with impressive rankings over the past few years:
- 2020: 13-0 (National Champions), Recruiting Rank: 2nd
- 2021: 13-2, Recruiting Rank: 1st
- 2022: 11-2, Recruiting Rank: 2nd
- 2023: 12-2, Recruiting Rank: 1st
- 2024: 9-4 (DeBoer’s First Year), Recruiting Rank: 2nd
- 2025: Record TBD, Recruiting Rank: 3rd
Overall, the team’s record over the last five seasons stands at an impressive 58-10, with an average recruiting rank of 1.8. This consistent success in recruiting is vital for maintaining Alabama’s status as a powerhouse in college football.
Setting the stage for 2025
As Alabama gears up for the pivotal 2025 season, the focus will be on re-establishing the program’s dominance in college football. With a top-three recruiting class and key returning talent, the Tide are poised to make a strong push for the national title conversation once again.
With Kalen DeBoer at the helm, fans are eager to see how the team will evolve and whether they can reclaim their spot among the elite programs in the nation. The upcoming season promises to be a thrilling chapter in Alabama football history, as the Crimson Tide look to bounce back and show that they are still a force to be reckoned with.
