Alabama Football Turns its Attention to 2025: 25 Predictions for Year 2 Under Kalen DeBoer
As Alabama football turns its attention to the 2025 season, the program finds itself entering Year 2 under head coach Kalen DeBoer. DeBoer, who took over as the Crimson Tide’s head coach in 2024, has had a year to install his system, build relationships with players, and lay the foundation for future success. With a storied program like Alabama, expectations are always sky-high, and Year 2 is often when the true effects of a coaching change become visible.
In the spirit of anticipating what’s next for the program, here are 25 predictions for Alabama football in 2025 under the leadership of Kalen DeBoer:
Alabama Will Return to the Playoff Picture
Under DeBoer’s second year, Alabama will get back to its familiar spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) conversation. DeBoer’s system and recruiting are beginning to take shape, and with the talent on the roster, the Crimson Tide will position themselves as a legitimate contender for the postseason.
A New Quarterback Will Emerge as the Starter
With the departure of [insert quarterback name], the quarterback battle will be one of the biggest storylines. By the middle of the season, either a highly touted freshman or a transfer quarterback will rise to the occasion, making a significant impact on the offense.
The Offense Will Be More Up-Tempo
Kalen DeBoer has a history of implementing a fast-paced offense, and in Year 2, Alabama will embrace this up-tempo approach. Expect more no-huddle schemes and quick plays that will put defenses on their heels and allow Alabama to exploit mismatches.
Alabama’s Running Back Room Will Be Deep and Dangerous
Alabama’s running backs in 2025 will form one of the most talented backfields in the country. With a mix of power backs and speedy playmakers, DeBoer will lean on the running game to set the tone for the offense.
The Offensive Line Will Be a Strength
While the offensive line struggled in 2024, it will emerge as one of Alabama’s strengths in 2025. With another year of experience and coaching under DeBoer’s system, the line will protect the quarterback better and open up lanes for the running backs.
A Star Receiver Will Emerge
Alabama will have a breakout wide receiver in 2025. With several talented pass-catchers on the roster, one will rise above the rest, becoming a go-to target in key situations and a focal point of the offense.
The Defense Will Maintain its Elite Status
While the offense will experience significant changes, Alabama’s defense under [insert defensive coordinator name] will remain elite. Expect a defense that is stout in the trenches, quick to pressure quarterbacks, and strong in the secondary.
The Crimson Tide Will Be Tougher in the Trenches
Under DeBoer’s leadership, Alabama’s defensive line and offensive line will both become more physical. DeBoer will instill a more aggressive, dominant mindset in both units, leading to improved performance in the trenches.
Alabama Will Have a Top 10 Defense Again
With DeBoer’s emphasis on team development, Alabama’s defense will again be one of the best in the country, consistently ranking in the top 10. Expect a defensive line that can collapse pockets, linebackers who are solid in coverage, and a secondary that is opportunistic.
Alabama’s special teams struggled at times in 2024, but in Year 2 under DeBoer, expect more consistency in the kicking game, with both the punting and placekicking units making fewer mistakes and playing a bigger role in close games.
As DeBoer’s recruiting efforts continue to pay off, expect freshmen and sophomores to contribute more than they did in 2024. Players like [insert player names] will step up, making key plays on both offense and defense.
In 2025, the SEC West will remain one of the most competitive divisions in college football, but Alabama will rise above the competition. Expect them to win the division and earn a spot in the SEC Championship Game once again
With a successful Year 2, DeBoer will be recognized as one of the top coaches in the SEC, earning SEC Coach of the Year honors. His impact on Alabama’s football program will be evident, and he will be lauded for leading the Tide back to the top of the division.
Alabama Will Have a Tougher Schedule in 2025
The Crimson Tide will face some challenging opponents in 2025, with games against top-tier SEC rivals and out-of-conference matchups. These tough contests will prepare the team for a potential playoff run, but will also test DeBoer’s ability to adjust on the fly.
Alabama Will Have a Historic Recruiting Class
Kalen DeBoer’s ability to recruit will shine in 2025, as the Crimson Tide will land one of the top recruiting classes in the nation. Expect top-tier talent to flock to Tuscaloosa, eager to play for a program with DeBoer’s leadership.
The Quarterback Play Will Be More Consistent
In 2025, Alabama’s quarterback situation will stabilize. Whether it’s a veteran returning starter or a rising star, the quarterback play will be far more consistent than in 2024, leading to a more efficient offense.
Alabama Will Score More Points Per Game
Under DeBoer’s system, Alabama will become more explosive on offense. The up-tempo approach, combined with more balanced playcalling, will result in a significant increase in points per game.
The Secondary Will Be a Stronger Unit
In Year 2, the Alabama secondary will become one of the best in the nation. DeBoer’s staff will prioritize developing the defensive backs, and they’ll be ready to shut down top-tier passing attacks in the SEC.
The Pass Rush Will Be More Effective
With more development on the defensive line, Alabama’s pass rush will take a step forward in 2025. Expect the Crimson Tide to generate more sacks and pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which will disrupt offensive schemes.
The Crimson Tide Will Be Unbeaten at Home
In 2025, Alabama will defend their home field with pride. Bryant-Denny Stadium will once again be a fortress, and Alabama will remain undefeated at home, creating a massive advantage in crucial SEC matchups.
DeBoer will improve Alabama’s red zone efficiency in 2025, focusing on finishing drives and converting in critical scoring opportunities. The team will become more methodical in the red zone, punching in touchdowns rather than relying on field goals.
The Tide Will Have a Significant Road Win
One of the key moments of Alabama’s 2025 campaign will come in a crucial road win against a top-tier SEC opponent. This victory will be a defining moment in their quest for a playoff spot.
The Running Back by Committee Approach Will Be Effective
In 2025, Alabama will continue to use a running back by committee approach, with several backs rotating in and out. This depth will keep fresh legs on the field and allow the Tide to wear down opposing defenses throughout the season.
Alabama Will Be a Strong Recruiting Force in the NIL Era
Kalen DeBoer will successfully navigate the changing landscape of college football, capitalizing on NIL opportunities to help bring top talent to Tuscaloosa. Alabama will remain a dominant force in recruiting, especially with its NIL advantages.
Alabama Will Make a Deep Playoff Run
In 2025, the Crimson Tide will not only return to the College Football Playoff, but they will make a deep run, advancing to the National Championship Game. Kalen DeBoer’s leadership and the team’s development over Year 2 will set Alabama up for another championship push.