Alabama’s Challenges in DeBoer’s Third Season

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Alabama Crimson Tide appeared in the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the first time under head coach Kalen DeBoer last season. The team defeated Oklahoma in the first round but then lost to Indiana in the Rose Bowl quarterfinals. Following this, DeBoer agreed to a seven-year contract extension worth $87.7 million in April. Alabama expects a promising future with him at the helm.

This season, Alabama faces challenges returning to the CFP, with uncertainties on their roster. The quarterback position is a key concern as Keelon Russell and Austin Mack compete for the starting role during training camp. The defense also lost four players to the NFL draft.

With a nine-game SEC schedule ahead, Alabama will face significant tests. Here are three crucial games that will shape DeBoer’s third season in Tuscaloosa:

Georgia at Alabama (Oct. 10)

Alabama has had the upper hand over Georgia in regular season matchups for the past two years. The Crimson Tide defeated Georgia 41-34 in 2024 and narrowly won 24-21 last season in September. However, Georgia avenged these losses in the SEC championship by defeating Alabama 28-7.

This year, Georgia is a strong contender for the national title. When they meet early in October, Alabama will face a formidable challenge. Improving the run game is essential. In their last SEC championship face-off, Alabama managed only -3 rushing yards.

Texas A&M at Alabama (Oct. 24)

The game against Texas A&M could be critical in determining which SEC program secures a spot in the CFP. The Aggies, with quarterback Marcel Reed leading them, aim for another CFP appearance.

Alabama’s defense, particularly the front seven, must contain Reed to secure a win. Last season, Miami and Texas succeeded by controlling the line of scrimmage, an area where the Crimson Tide struggled in key games. Playing at home should offer some advantage to DeBoer’s team.

Alabama at LSU (Nov. 7)

LSU, under their new head coach Lane Kiffin and his well-funded squad, is favored in this matchup. Playing at Tiger Stadium adds another layer of difficulty for Alabama in November.

By this season’s late stage, a victory over LSU could be necessary to maintain Alabama’s CFP aspirations. The Crimson Tide must rely on its secondary to contain LSU’s talented group of receivers.