Kalen DeBoer is developing Alabama’s football roster in the image of Ohio State.

In the competitive world of college football, programs are constantly evolving to stay ahead of the curve. For Alabama football, a program that has dominated college football for over a decade under head coach Nick Saban, adapting to new trends and strategies is vital in maintaining its elite status. One key figure in this transformation is Kalen DeBoer, the offensive mastermind who has become a driving force behind Alabama’s recent efforts to reshape its roster and philosophy.

DeBoer’s arrival at Alabama coincides with the growing influence of Ohio State football, another powerhouse program that has consistently been at the forefront of college football innovation. The Buckeyes’ success over the past decade has been rooted in a high-octane offense, dynamic player development, and a potent recruiting strategy, making Ohio State the model of success for many programs across the nation.

As DeBoer looks to develop Alabama’s football roster in the image of Ohio State, it’s important to understand the nuances of this transformation. Alabama’s offense, traditionally known for its power running game, has evolved in recent years to emphasize more diverse, dynamic passing schemes, much like Ohio State’s offense. DeBoer, who made his mark as a successful offensive coordinator and head coach, is guiding Alabama in a direction that mirrors the successes of Ohio State. This article will explore how DeBoer’s influence is reshaping Alabama’s roster and playing style, and why Ohio State serves as the blueprint for this evolution.

Kalen DeBoer’s Offensive Philosophy

Before diving into the specifics of how DeBoer is shaping Alabama’s roster, it’s essential to understand his offensive philosophy and how it compares to Ohio State’s. DeBoer’s coaching career has been defined by his ability to develop explosive offenses, and he is known for his balanced attack that can be as potent in the passing game as it is in the running game. This dual-threat offensive strategy is something Ohio State has mastered under head coach Ryan Day, who has made the Buckeyes’ offense one of the most feared units in college football.

DeBoer’s offensive philosophy focuses on versatility and adaptability. He believes in creating mismatches by utilizing a variety of personnel groupings and formations to attack opposing defenses. At the core of his strategy is the passing game, which can stretch the field both horizontally and vertically, while also setting up effective running plays to keep defenses off balance. The ability to mix and match plays, while staying true to the overall concept of attacking defenses from multiple angles, is a hallmark of both DeBoer’s and Ohio State’s offensive approach.

The Shift in Alabama’s Offensive Identity

Historically, Alabama football has been synonymous with a strong, physical running game. Under Nick Saban, the program developed a reputation for dominating the trenches with elite offensive linemen and running backs. The “Alabama way” emphasized controlling the clock, wearing down opposing defenses, and playing physical, grind-it-out football. However, in recent years, as the game of college football has evolved, so too has Alabama’s approach.

With the rise of up-tempo offenses and a shift toward a more pass-heavy game, Alabama has been forced to adapt to remain competitive in a changing landscape. This transformation began with the hiring of Steve Sarkisian as offensive coordinator in 2019 and has continued with the addition of Kalen DeBoer to the staff. Under DeBoer, Alabama is developing a more modern, pass-centric offense—one that mirrors the style of play that has made Ohio State so successful.

While Alabama’s offensive line and running backs remain crucial components of the team’s success, the focus has shifted to creating a more explosive passing attack. DeBoer’s philosophy of spreading the field and utilizing a variety of passing concepts is in direct alignment with the approaches taken by Ohio State, whose offensive success in recent years has been built on the arm of quarterback C.J. Stroud and a deep, dynamic receiving corps.

Building a Roster to Match the Philosophy

One of the most significant impacts Kalen DeBoer has had on Alabama’s football program is his role in reshaping the roster to better fit his offensive philosophy. In many ways, DeBoer’s vision for the team mirrors the blueprint that Ohio State has established, one that places a premium on skill positions such as quarterback and wide receiver, while also ensuring that the offensive line is capable of protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes.

Quarterback Development

At the heart of any modern, high-powered offense is the quarterback, and DeBoer is placing a strong emphasis on developing elite signal-callers at Alabama. Ohio State has long been a leader in producing top-tier quarterbacks, with players like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud leading the way in recent years. Both quarterbacks were able to thrive in an offense that allowed them to operate out of a spread system, utilizing quick, efficient passing while also taking advantage of their ability to run when necessary.

DeBoer’s success in quarterback development has been well-documented, particularly during his time as the head coach at Fresno State. His work with quarterbacks has helped elevate the play of players like Jake Haener, who went on to have a successful career at the University of Washington. At Alabama, DeBoer has inherited a strong quarterback room, but his emphasis on developing quarterbacks who are comfortable in a pass-heavy system is helping the program make the transition to a more dynamic offense.

In line with Ohio State’s approach, DeBoer is seeking quarterbacks who are capable of both reading defenses quickly and making quick decisions in the pocket. Whether it’s a dual-threat quarterback who can extend plays with his legs or a pocket passer with an elite arm, DeBoer wants a quarterback who can efficiently execute the offense and make quick reads under pressure.

Wide Receiver Development

In addition to quarterback play, Alabama is also focusing on the development of wide receivers, much like Ohio State has done under Ryan Day. The Buckeyes have consistently had one of the deepest and most talented wide receiver rooms in the country, producing players who go on to have successful careers in the NFL. Players like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba have all thrived in Ohio State’s pass-heavy offense, and Alabama is looking to mirror that success.

DeBoer’s approach to the receiver position is similar to Ohio State’s in that he values players who are versatile, fast, and can stretch the field. Alabama’s current crop of wide receivers, led by players like Ja’Corey Brooks and Isaiah Bond, are being developed to take on a greater role in the passing game. These receivers are expected to run a variety of route combinations, from quick slants to deep routes, while also being able to gain yards after the catch.

Much like Ohio State, Alabama’s offense is beginning to feature multiple wide receivers in a system that emphasizes spacing, tempo, and route variety. DeBoer is committed to creating mismatches with his receivers, utilizing them in ways that allow them to get open in space and make big plays.

Offensive Line Play

While the passing game is becoming a more significant focus for Alabama under DeBoer, the offensive line remains a critical part of the team’s success. Both Alabama and Ohio State have historically excelled at recruiting and developing offensive linemen, and this remains a priority for DeBoer.

Although Alabama has always prided itself on physicality and running the ball, DeBoer’s offensive system requires an offensive line that can protect the quarterback and provide the necessary time for plays to develop. This includes pass protection for deep throws, as well as run blocking to establish balance in the offense.

DeBoer’s offense at Alabama, like Ohio State’s, relies on a system that balances both the pass and run game effectively. While the running game may take a backseat in terms of volume, it still plays a crucial role in keeping defenses honest and creating opportunities for big plays in the passing game. The offensive line, therefore, must be versatile and capable of excelling in both run blocking and pass protection.

Recruiting with an Eye on the Ohio State Model

Another important aspect of DeBoer’s impact on Alabama’s roster development is the shift in recruiting priorities. Alabama has long been a powerhouse in recruiting, securing some of the best talent in the nation. Under DeBoer’s guidance, the focus has shifted slightly to place a greater emphasis on skill positions, particularly at quarterback and wide receiver.

Ohio State’s success in recruiting elite wide receivers and quarterbacks has become a model for other programs, and DeBoer is leveraging his reputation and expertise to attract top-tier talent to Alabama. The recruiting strategy is shifting to prioritize players who can excel in a fast-paced, pass-oriented system, mirroring the success Ohio State has had in recent years.

DeBoer’s background as a recruiter and developer of talent has helped Alabama attract high-caliber players to its roster. The combination of Alabama’s historical success in recruiting and DeBoer’s offensive vision has given the Crimson Tide a competitive edge in recruiting battles, particularly when it comes to skill position players.