TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Kalen DeBoer assumed the position 261 days ago, but Saturday night marked the moment he truly solidified his role as Alabama’s head coach.
He garnered the team’s support during spring practice. Over the summer, the Alabama fan base largely embraced him following an impressive recruiting streak. The final step was leading Alabama to victory on a grand stage with the entire college football world watching. And he delivered.
Alabama’s 41-34 triumph over Georgia lived up to the anticipation and then some. After the game, DeBoer boasted a record of 108-12 as a head coach, 12-2 against AP-ranked opponents, and 6-0 against notable coaches like Steve Sarkisian, Lincoln Riley, Dan Lanning, and Kirby Smart. Despite concerns about a potential decline after Nick Saban’s departure, it was evident that the tide had not turned in Georgia’s favor with the best coach in college football at the helm. Instead, Alabama secured their ninth victory over Georgia in ten meetings.
The first half mirrored the dominance of 2015 in Athens. The second half resembled the comebacks and late-game heroics of 2017 and 2018. Yet, the end result remained the same: Alabama emerged victorious. The game marked a significant moment for players like quarterback Jalen Milroe and freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams. However, it also served as a defining moment for DeBoer, who delivered the type of marquee victory that Alabama had been synonymous with under Saban.
“All the hard work that you put in during the dark is going to shine at some point,” Milroe, who accumulated 491 total yards and four touchdowns, expressed. “And it came out and shined today. It was a great opportunity for our football team to put it on display.”
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DeBoer also gained insight into coaching in the SEC, which will undoubtedly provide valuable teaching moments going forward.
Despite holding a comfortable 30-7 lead, Alabama encountered a critical moment with 53 seconds before halftime. Positioned at second-and-5 on Georgia’s 40-yard line, Alabama’s attempt at a trick play backfired, resulting in an 8-yard loss and a missed scoring opportunity. What seemed like an impending breakthrough turned into a missed chance. The subsequent 28-0 lead diminished to a 30-7 halftime advantage, only to evolve into a 34-33 deficit with 2:31 remaining. Alabama’s offense, which had initially excelled, struggled in the second half. The defense faltered, and penalties plagued the team’s performance.
“They should have never been in a situation to be able to come back,” Williams remarked. “We were supposed to just keep our foot on the gas, but (Georgia) did come back. We knew adversity would hit at some point — we just had to fight back.”
Jalen Milroe passed for 374 yards and ran for 117 yards. (Todd Kirkland / Getty Images)
To the credit of DeBoer and Alabama, they rallied. Following Georgia’s go-ahead score, DeBoer orchestrated a deep pass for Milroe and Williams, leading to the decisive touchdown. DeBoer’s swift response reflected a sense of confidence that permeated the team.
“This isn’t just this week; from day one we’ve talked about no regrets,” DeBoer stated. “Compete until the very end. We talk a lot about staying positive and keep fighting. Sometimes the ball doesn’t bounce your way — keep fighting.
“A lot of plays have opportunities where if you find a one-on-one matchup, you take it.”
DeBoer, typically composed, exhibited some competitive spirit on Saturday. Players lauded his poise throughout the game, especially during the pivotal moments towards the end. His calm demeanor mirrored that of the players, ultimately guiding Alabama to a remarkable victory after nearly squandering a 28-point lead.
There’s your passion, Bama fans. pic.com/6OgFLHSHUS
— Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium (@BryantDenny_UA) September 29, 2024
“Coach DeBoer’s big on energy,” linebacker Jihaad Campbell noted. “Throughout the whole game, coach DeBoer had poise, I think that really rubbed off on the whole team. Just understanding, ‘Hey we’re good, next-play mentality.’
“It’s Bama, you know, we are the standard. We don’t really overthink things. We have poise. We trust ourselves. We trust one another to go out there and do our job so we can execute and come out with a win.”
While Georgia mounted a notable comeback, it’s essential to acknowledge DeBoer’s staff for executing an exceptional game plan. Smart adjustments at halftime and strategic plays contributed to Alabama’s success. Milroe’s precision, positive turnover margin, and time of possession dominance underscored a signature victory. Despite the triumph, the team remains focused on continuous improvement, starting with a road game at Vanderbilt.
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While the win was commendable, the honeymoon phase is over, even after a victory. DeBoer has faced minimal criticism since assuming the role in January, but Saturday’s game invites fair questioning of Georgia’s adjustments and future implications. Credit is also due to Georgia for maintaining a high level of play.
In essence, Alabama demonstrated that under DeBoer’s leadership, the team is a force to be reckoned with. This was their most significant test to date, and DeBoer passed with flying colors.
As Alabama continues its journey, Milroe emphasizes the importance of celebrating wins while remaining focused on growth and improvement.
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(Top photo of Jalen Milroe and Germie Bernard: Todd Kirkland / Getty Images)