All eyes in college football this upcoming season will focus on Kalen DeBoer, the newly appointed head coach at Alabama. DeBoer, who joins the Crimson Tide after a successful stint at Washington, where he led the team to a 14–1 record and a national championship appearance, steps into the formidable role left by Nick Saban’s retirement. In an interview with Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt, DeBoer expressed his belief in following Saban’s legacy and achieving success.
“I do,” DeBoer affirmed when asked if he believes he can uphold Saban’s standards and win consistently. “I just think that—if I may say so without sounding arrogant—you know that if you give everything to the right things, the right people, and have the right support, success can be achieved.”
Saban, who took over Alabama in January 2007 at the age of 55, amassed an impressive record during his 17-year tenure, securing six national championships and nine SEC titles. DeBoer acknowledges the monumental task ahead, emphasizing that Alabama’s legacy transcends any individual.
“Coach Saban has elevated this program to greatness, and it’s now bigger than any one person,” DeBoer commented. “His legacy as the best will endure. I approach this responsibility with utmost care and understanding.”
DeBoer, eager to build on his past experiences, will lead Alabama in their season opener on August 31 against Western Kentucky. The team’s early schedule includes matchups against USF and Wisconsin before a pivotal SEC clash with Georgia on September 28 at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
