Kalen DeBoer, the head coach of Alabama football, highlights the Crimson Tide’s biggest uncertainty for the 2025 campaign.

Kalen DeBoer, the newly appointed head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football program, faces an uphill battle in navigating the most uncertain and challenging season in recent memory. As Alabama transitions from a period of consistent dominance in the SEC to a new era under DeBoer’s leadership, several key questions must be answered for the Crimson Tide to remain among the elite in college football. With the 2025 season on the horizon, one of the most pressing issues for Alabama is identifying how to effectively address their uncertainty at several key positions, including quarterback, offensive line, and defensive leadership.

The Quarterback Position: The Heart of Alabama’s Uncertainty

Perhaps the most significant uncertainty for Alabama heading into the 2025 campaign lies in the quarterback position. For the first time in over a decade, the Tide will face a season without a clear-cut, established quarterback, a rarity for a program that has been led by standout quarterbacks such as Tua Tagovailoa, Jalen Hurts, and Bryce Young. In fact, quarterback play has long been the bedrock of Alabama’s championship aspirations. However, with the departure of Bryce Young, who declared for the NFL Draft after a brilliant 2024 season, the Crimson Tide finds itself at a crossroads.

Kalen DeBoer, whose offensive prowess has been evident at previous stops, will have to make a crucial decision regarding who will take the reins of the Alabama offense in 2025. The contenders for the starting role include a mix of highly recruited young talent and experienced players, all of whom bring different strengths and weaknesses to the table.

On one hand, Jalen Milroe, a redshirt sophomore, brings mobility and the ability to make explosive plays with his legs. Milroe’s development as a passer, however, has been inconsistent. His decision-making under pressure and ability to read defenses in the SEC will be critical factors in determining whether he can lead the offense effectively. On the other hand, Ty Simpson, a highly-touted five-star recruit, is another candidate who has shown flashes of potential but has yet to fully demonstrate that he can command the starting role in a high-pressure environment.

DeBoer’s decision at quarterback will be a balancing act between selecting the player who best fits his offensive system and the player who can handle the immense pressure of leading Alabama’s storied program. The uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, particularly with such high stakes, could set the tone for Alabama’s 2025 season.

The Offensive Line: Rebuilding a Foundation of Dominance

Another area of concern for Alabama as it enters 2025 is the state of its offensive line. For years, the Crimson Tide’s offensive line has been one of the most formidable units in college football. The line has consistently paved the way for explosive rushing attacks and given its quarterbacks the time they need to execute the offense’s game plan. However, with several key departures from the 2024 squad and the loss of NFL-bound talent, the Tide’s offensive line enters the 2025 season with major questions about its ability to protect the quarterback and establish a strong running game.

One of the biggest challenges for DeBoer and his staff will be integrating a mix of new starters alongside returning players. While Alabama has a reputation for recruiting some of the best offensive linemen in the country, the program will need to develop chemistry quickly to avoid disruption on the field. This will be particularly challenging for a new quarterback who may need additional protection while adjusting to the rigors of SEC defenses.

Players such as JC Latham, an experienced tackle, will play a pivotal role in leading the line’s development. Latham’s leadership will be critical in helping younger linemen acclimate to the speed and complexity of college football. Additionally, the recruitment of players like Elijah Pritchett and several other highly rated prospects will have a direct impact on the line’s ability to perform at the highest level.

With the potential to dominate in the trenches, Alabama’s offensive line remains a significant area of uncertainty—one that could either elevate the program to a championship level or undermine its ability to compete against elite SEC opponents. Whether or not Alabama can sustain its offensive dominance will depend on how well the line performs.

Defensive Leadership: The Loss of Key Playmakers

On the other side of the ball, Alabama’s defense has long been its calling card. Known for its punishing style of play, aggressive schemes, and ability to shut down opposing offenses, the Tide’s defense has been an integral part of its success under Nick Saban. However, with the departures of several key defensive leaders—such as standout linebackers and defensive backs—DeBoer will have to find new leaders to step up and fill the void left by these departures.

While Alabama has a deep pool of talented defensive players, the lack of proven leadership and experience in key positions could leave the defense vulnerable early in the season. The linebacker corps, traditionally the backbone of the defense, will require significant development. Players like Trezman Marshall and Jihaad Campbell will need to rise to the occasion and lead the defense while also helping to establish a new identity for Alabama’s unit.

The secondary is another area that has raised questions, particularly with the loss of top-tier defensive backs. While Alabama has always been known for its ability to recruit elite secondary players, the new faces in the secondary must adapt quickly to the high-stakes nature of SEC football. If the Tide’s defense is unable to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback or shut down high-powered offenses, it could put extra strain on the offense to score enough points to win games.

However, Kalen DeBoer’s defensive philosophy may provide the defensive unit with a fresh sense of purpose. As someone who understands the importance of balance and complementary football, DeBoer may place greater emphasis on situational defense and playing smart, aggressive football. A more opportunistic defense that capitalizes on turnovers and plays with a relentless edge could offset the lack of individual stars.

Special Teams: A Consistent Threat or Liability?

Special teams have often been an overlooked aspect of Alabama football’s overall dominance, but the 2025 season could see special teams play a much larger role in determining the Tide’s success or failure. With an uncertain quarterback situation and a need for offensive consistency, strong play on special teams could be the difference between winning and losing close games.

The placekicking and punting duties will be especially important. Alabama has traditionally boasted reliable kickers, but with the uncertainty at other positions, any inconsistency in the kicking game could be amplified in tight SEC matchups. A game-winning field goal or an untimely missed extra point could be the difference between a national championship contender and a program fighting for a bowl game berth.

DeBoer and his coaching staff will need to address these areas of uncertainty by ensuring the special teams unit is well-prepared for all scenarios. Having a reliable kicker and punter will not only keep the team in games but could potentially swing momentum at critical points in the season.

DeBoer’s Leadership and Coaching Philosophy

As the head coach of Alabama, Kalen DeBoer enters the 2025 season with the task of maintaining a legacy of success while adapting to the evolving landscape of college football. Known for his offensive ingenuity and ability to build dynamic, fast-paced offenses, DeBoer will need to inject new life into the Alabama program. However, his ability to make the right decisions with respect to the quarterback situation, the development of young players, and managing the uncertainty at multiple key positions will define his tenure in Tuscaloosa.

One area where DeBoer’s background could provide an advantage is his ability to develop quarterbacks. Having worked with some of the most talented signal-callers in his previous roles as offensive coordinator at Washington and Fresno State, DeBoer has a track record of maximizing quarterback potential. His offensive mind could help Alabama tap into its quarterback room’s full potential, whether it’s Milroe or Simpson.

Moreover, DeBoer’s leadership style and ability to create a culture of accountability and trust will be critical for the team’s success. If he can establish a sense of unity and purpose, despite the many questions surrounding the roster, Alabama could overcome its uncertainties and remain competitive in the SEC.