Kalen DeBoer is learning to master the balance of being a beloved head coach while still holding his players accountable. Last week, Alabama football delivered a decisive 34-0 win over Missouri at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saban Field. The Tide impressed in their homecoming game, but a moment between DeBoer and backup offensive lineman Roq Montgomery stole some attention. After a play, DeBoer was seen giving Montgomery, a 2023 recruit, some strong feedback on the sideline. Montgomery initially avoided eye contact, but DeBoer quickly got his attention, showing fans his passionate commitment.
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On Monday, DeBoer explained the moment to reporters. “It’s about striving for improvement,” he said. “There were things we could handle better in terms of composure. Whether you’re in the game’s first snap or its last, leading or trailing, we’re always focused on doing things right and playing to our standard.”
DeBoer emphasized that Montgomery is a “good kid” who gives his all to the program, using him to send a broader message: Alabama must uphold its standards.
Former head coach Nick Saban echoed this sentiment on ESPN’s *College GameDay* before the Missouri game, saying that Alabama shouldn’t be focused on winning but rather on meeting its standards. The Tide kept its College Football Playoff hopes alive with the win and now aims to continue this momentum against LSU.
