**Kalen DeBoer, Coach of Alabama, Considers the Crimson Tide’s Rivalry with Georgia**
When Kalen DeBoer took over as the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, he inherited not only one of the most storied programs in college football history but also some of the sport’s most intense rivalries. Among these, the budding but increasingly fierce competition with the Georgia Bulldogs stands out. Though Alabama and Georgia don’t share the same historic animosity as the Iron Bowl clash with Auburn or the Third Saturday in October against Tennessee, their recent battles have elevated this matchup into one of the most significant in the sport. For DeBoer, understanding and embracing this rivalry will be crucial as he seeks to maintain Alabama’s dominance in the SEC and on the national stage.
The Alabama-Georgia rivalry has grown in prominence over the past decade, fueled by high-stakes matchups, championship implications, and the presence of two of college football’s most respected programs. Under Nick Saban, Alabama established itself as the gold standard of college football, while Kirby Smart, a former Saban assistant, built Georgia into a powerhouse capable of challenging the Tide’s supremacy. The result has been a series of unforgettable games, each adding another layer to this burgeoning rivalry.
One of the most defining moments in the recent history of this rivalry came in the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship. Alabama and Georgia faced off in an all-SEC title game that went into overtime, with the Crimson Tide securing a dramatic 26-23 victory thanks to Tua Tagovailoa’s iconic touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith. That game not only solidified Alabama’s dynasty but also marked Georgia as a program on the cusp of greatness. The Bulldogs’ heartbreak in that game fueled their determination, and when they met Alabama again in the 2022 CFP National Championship, Georgia exacted revenge with a 33-18 victory, capturing their first national title in over four decades.
These back-to-back championship clashes elevated the rivalry beyond just another SEC matchup. It became a battle between two programs with championship aspirations, elite recruiting classes, and coaching staffs that know each other intimately. For DeBoer, stepping into this environment means recognizing the weight these games carry. While he may not have the same personal history with Smart as Saban did, the competitive fire between the two programs ensures that every meeting will be fiercely contested.
Beyond the national championship games, the regular-season and SEC Championship matchups have also added to the lore of this rivalry. The 2021 SEC Championship, where Alabama handed Georgia its only loss of the season before the Bulldogs bounced back to win the rematch in the title game, showcased the strategic chess match between Saban and Smart. These games often feature the nation’s top talent, with future NFL stars on both sides, making each encounter a must-watch event for football fans.
For DeBoer, the challenge will be maintaining Alabama’s edge in this rivalry while implementing his own system. Known for his offensive ingenuity, DeBoer’s ability to adapt and outscheme opponents will be tested against a Georgia defense that has consistently ranked among the best in the nation under Smart. Conversely, Georgia’s offense, which has evolved into a balanced and explosive unit, will test an Alabama defense that may undergo adjustments under the new coaching staff.
Another factor that intensifies this rivalry is recruiting. Alabama and Georgia routinely compete for the same elite high school prospects, and winning on the field often translates to success on the recruiting trail. Both programs have dominated the recruiting rankings in recent years, with each signing classes loaded with five-star talent. For DeBoer, establishing his presence in the Southeast recruiting battleground will be essential to keeping Alabama at the top. The rivalry with Georgia isn’t just about the games themselves—it’s about securing the players who will shape the future of both programs.
The fan bases also play a role in the intensity of this matchup. Alabama’s supporters expect nothing less than championships, and any loss is met with scrutiny. Georgia’s fans, having tasted sustained success under Smart, now have the same expectations. The pressure on both coaches to win these games is immense, and the margin for error is slim. For DeBoer, winning over the Alabama faithful will require proving he can not only uphold the standard set by Saban but also defeat the Bulldogs when it matters most.
Looking ahead, the 2024 season could provide another chapter in this rivalry. While the regular-season schedule doesn’t currently pit Alabama against Georgia every year, the likelihood of them meeting in the SEC Championship or the College Football Playoff remains high. Each game carries implications for conference supremacy, playoff berths, and national title aspirations. For DeBoer, a victory over Georgia would instantly endear him to the Crimson Tide faithful and signal that Alabama remains the team to beat in the SEC.
Ultimately, the Alabama-Georgia rivalry represents more than just two elite programs clashing on the field. It’s a battle of philosophies, recruiting prowess, and coaching acumen. For Kalen DeBoer, embracing this rivalry means understanding what makes it special—the high stakes, the mutual respect, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines both teams. As he leads Alabama into a new era, his ability to navigate this rivalry will play a significant role in determining his success in Tuscaloosa.
The Crimson Tide and the Bulldogs have created some of college football’s most memorable moments in recent years, and with both programs showing no signs of slowing down, the best may be yet to come. For DeBoer, the challenge is clear: uphold Alabama’s legacy while carving out his own place in this storied rivalry. The college football world will be watching.
