Futures odds for the 2025 Alabama Crimson Tide: What to anticipate in Kalen DeBoer’s second season

The Alabama Crimson Tide are set to embark on a new era in the 2025 college football season, with Kalen DeBoer leading the program in his second year. Following a transitional first season that saw Alabama post a 9-4 record, a stark contrast to the dominance displayed under Nick Saban, the team faces heightened expectations, roster turnover, and a grueling schedule. Betting odds and expert projections reflect both the challenges and opportunities ahead for the Tide.

Futures Odds and Expectations

As of early 2025, Alabama’s win total has been set at 8.5 games by FanDuel Sportsbook. This reflects tempered expectations from oddsmakers, particularly given the team’s struggles in DeBoer’s first year. Additionally, the Tide’s preseason National Championship odds are set at 14-1, marking their lowest title odds since 2008. The betting markets suggest a potential decline in dominance, though some believe DeBoer can reverse course quickly.

Several factors contribute to these odds:

Roster turnover: Key players have departed for the NFL, and Alabama saw significant movement in the transfer portal.
Quarterback uncertainty: The absence of Jalen Milroe leaves a major question mark at the most crucial position.
Coaching transitions: While DeBoer’s offensive philosophy has shown promise, he faces challenges implementing it fully with a new roster.
A challenging schedule: Alabama faces multiple top-tier opponents, including Georgia, LSU, and Florida State.

Roster Changes and Key Departures

Quarterback Situation

One of the most pressing concerns is the quarterback position. Jalen Milroe, a dual-threat leader for Alabama in 2024, has moved on to the NFL. His departure leaves a significant void, as Milroe was responsible for a large portion of the team’s offensive production.

The current quarterback room consists of:

Ty Simpson: A former five-star recruit with limited experience (381 passing yards, three rushing touchdowns over two seasons).
Austin Mack: A Washington transfer who followed DeBoer to Alabama, providing familiarity with the offensive system.
Keelon Russell: A highly touted freshman with potential but lacking collegiate experience.

The battle for the starting role will be critical, as DeBoer’s system relies on precision passing and strategic decision-making. If Simpson or Mack can quickly acclimate, Alabama’s offense could find stability.

Transfer Portal Movement

Alabama has experienced significant attrition through the transfer portal, with 24 players departing since the end of the 2024 regular season. The team has only added eight players via the portal, giving them the lowest-ranked transfer class in the SEC. This could create depth issues at key positions, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary.

On the bright side, Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class remains strong, ranked No. 3 nationally. DeBoer has done well in bringing in young talent, but developing these players quickly enough to compete at an elite level remains a challenge.

Coaching Staff Adjustments

Offense Under Ryan Grubb

One of the key hires for Alabama was offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who previously worked with DeBoer at Washington. Grubb brings an innovative approach to play-calling, emphasizing tempo and vertical passing.

If Alabama’s quarterback situation stabilizes, Grubb’s system could elevate the offense. The Crimson Tide will rely on their young receiving corps and an experienced offensive line to execute this transition.

Defensive Adjustments with Kane Wommack

Alabama’s defense in 2024 had moments of inconsistency, particularly against high-powered offenses. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack will need to make adjustments, particularly in the secondary, where Alabama struggled against elite quarterbacks.

The defense is expected to lean on a 4-2-5 scheme, which saw mixed results last season. Improved linebacker play and defensive line depth will be crucial in stopping SEC opponents.

2025 Schedule Breakdown

Alabama’s path to success will not be easy, as they face a grueling schedule featuring several national contenders:

Key Matchups

August 30 @ Florida State – A tough season opener against a Florida State team that has emerged as an ACC powerhouse.
September 6 vs. Wisconsin – The home opener against a Big Ten opponent will be an early test for Alabama’s defense.
September 27 @ Georgia – One of the toughest road games of the season, facing a Georgia team still atop the SEC.
October 18 vs. LSU – A crucial home matchup that could determine Alabama’s SEC West standing.
November 8 @ Tennessee – Alabama-Tennessee rivalry games have been intense in recent years, and this one could be pivotal.
November 29 vs. Auburn – The Iron Bowl could serve as a deciding factor in Alabama’s postseason hopes.

With these challenges, Alabama will need to be at their best to exceed their projected win total and contend for a conference championship.

Expert Predictions and Outlook

SEC Analysts Weigh In

Several analysts have varied expectations for Alabama:

Some believe Alabama should target an 11-12 win season, assuming their new quarterback and defensive scheme adjustments work seamlessly.
Others believe 9-10 wins is more realistic, given the roster changes and strength of the SEC.
A more pessimistic outlook suggests 8-9 wins, with concerns over depth, quarterback play, and overall team cohesion.

Betting Market Trends

The betting markets suggest Alabama is no longer a clear favorite for the SEC Championship, with Georgia and LSU carrying more favorable odds. However, if Alabama exceeds early expectations, their futures odds could shift dramatically during the season.

As the 2025 season approaches, Alabama finds itself in a unique position. The departure of Nick Saban signaled the end of an era, and Kalen DeBoer’s second season is crucial in shaping the future of the program. With significant roster turnover, a new quarterback at the helm, and a tough schedule, expectations are mixed. However, Alabama’s strong recruiting, proven coaching additions, and competitive spirit could see them defy the odds and return to national prominence.

Only time will tell whether Alabama can reclaim its status as an SEC powerhouse or if the challenges of transition will lead to another rebuilding year. Either way, the 2025 season promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory for Crimson Tide fans and college football as a whole.