Season Overview: In what will forever be remembered as the "Post-Saban Era," first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer guided Alabama to a 10-3 season, culminating in a College Football Playoff appearance. While the transition brought inevitable adjustments, the Crimson Tide maintained their status among college football's elite programs.
The DeBoer Transition
When Nick Saban announced his retirement in January 2024, the college football world was stunned. Alabama's decision to hire Washington's Kalen DeBoer signaled a new chapter for the program. DeBoer brought an offensive-minded approach, contrasting with Saban's defensive-focused philosophy.
The transition wasn't without challenges. Alabama suffered an early-season loss to Texas in a closely contested 20-19 game, raising questions about the team's adaptability. However, DeBoer quickly established his leadership style, emphasizing player development and offensive innovation.
Key Victories
Georgia (Week 5)
Alabama's 41-34 victory over top-ranked Georgia was the season's defining moment. In a thrilling offensive showcase, quarterback Jalen Milroe threw for 371 yards and three touchdowns, proving that Alabama's offense could compete with the nation's best.
LSU (Week 10)
A 42-28 victory over LSU in Death Valley showcased Alabama's resilience. The Crimson Tide overcame a 14-point deficit in the second half, with Milroe connecting on three touchdown passes in the final quarter.
Oklahoma (SEC Championship)
In a defensive struggle, Alabama prevailed 16-13 to claim the SEC Championship. The victory secured Alabama's spot in the College Football Playoff and validated DeBoer's first season at the helm.
Player Development
DeBoer's offensive system unlocked new potential in several key players. Jalen Milroe evolved into one of the SEC's most dynamic quarterbacks, throwing for 3,247 yards and 28 touchdowns while adding 742 rushing yards and 12 scores on the ground.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond emerged as Milroe's top target, catching 72 passes for 1,142 yards and 11 touchdowns. The development of younger players like freshman running back Richard Young and sophomore tight end CJ Dippre demonstrated DeBoer's commitment to building for the future.
Challenges and Growth
The season wasn't without difficulties. Alabama suffered surprising losses to Vanderbilt and Missouri, games that exposed areas needing improvement. The defense, while talented, occasionally struggled with consistency under new coordinator Kane Wommack.
However, these setbacks proved valuable learning experiences. DeBoer and his staff used these losses as teaching moments, helping the team mature and adapt throughout the season. The ability to bounce back from adversity became a defining characteristic of the 2024 squad.
Looking Ahead
As the 2024 season concludes, Alabama finds itself in a familiar position: among college football's elite. While the transition from Nick Saban presented challenges, Kalen DeBoer has established a foundation for sustained success.
With a strong recruiting class and key players returning, Alabama is poised to remain a national contender in 2025. The program's culture of excellence continues, albeit with a new offensive identity that has energized the fanbase.
The 2024 season will be remembered as the year Alabama successfully navigated the most significant coaching change in college football history, maintaining their status as one of the sport's premier programs while embracing a new era of Alabama football.