Why Kalen DeBoer argues that Alabama football “already feels” different in 2025

In the competitive world of college football, change is often inevitable. Over the years, we’ve seen programs evolve, rise to prominence, and occasionally fall from grace. But for some programs, a shift in momentum isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about a broader shift in the very essence of the program itself. One such program that appears to be undergoing a transformation is Alabama football, and Kalen DeBoer, the head coach of Washington, recently made waves with his statement that Alabama football “already feels different” in 2025.

At first glance, this might seem like an odd comment coming from a coach of a Pac-12 team, but when you dig deeper, it becomes clear that DeBoer’s observation has layers. DeBoer, known for his ability to turn programs around and his deep understanding of the dynamics of college football, is likely reflecting on several aspects of Alabama’s current trajectory—both on and off the field.

In this article, we’ll dive into why Kalen DeBoer might argue that Alabama football “feels different” in 2025, examining factors such as leadership changes, evolving recruiting strategies, the program’s shifting identity, and the impact of a changing college football landscape.

Alabama’s Changing Leadership Under Nick Saban

The most obvious source of change for Alabama football in 2025 revolves around Nick Saban’s tenure. Having coached the Crimson Tide since 2007, Saban is undeniably one of the greatest coaches in the history of college football. Under his leadership, Alabama won six national championships and became the gold standard for college football success.

However, in 2025, Saban is in the twilight years of his illustrious career. Although he hasn’t made any formal announcements about retirement, there is a growing sense that his time leading Alabama will soon come to an end. As a result, there’s an undeniable shift in the atmosphere surrounding the program, as both fans and players recognize that Alabama’s football culture is on the cusp of transitioning.

Kalen DeBoer, a coach who has worked with high-caliber programs and knows the ins and outs of major college football, likely recognizes that Alabama football is in the midst of a leadership transition—even if it’s not immediate. In a coaching landscape defined by Saban’s dominance, the question of who will succeed him is top of mind. The uncertainty about Saban’s eventual successor—whether it will be someone within the program or an external candidate—has already started to shape the program’s future.

While Saban has left an indelible mark on the program, there is a growing realization that Alabama’s football identity may shift once he eventually steps down. The idea of Alabama becoming less reliant on its all-conquering former coach and finding new ways to stay relevant may be what DeBoer is referring to when he says that the program “already feels different.” This uncertainty regarding leadership could lead to some unfamiliar dynamics in the locker room, recruiting office, and on the field, and it’s worth noting that even great programs can experience turbulence during periods of transition.

A New Recruiting Strategy: The Emergence of NIL and Transfer Portal

Another critical aspect that makes Alabama football feel different in 2025 is the evolving recruiting landscape, specifically in regard to the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights and the transfer portal.

For years, Alabama’s recruiting success was centered on Nick Saban’s ability to pull in elite high school prospects, many of whom were already ready to contribute immediately. This dominance on the recruiting trail helped Alabama maintain its place at the top of college football. But in the post-NIL world, the traditional recruiting model is being tested.

The introduction of NIL deals has fundamentally changed the way that college football programs recruit and retain talent. The ability to promise players financial compensation through NIL deals has opened the floodgates to new recruiting strategies. Alabama, as one of the most high-profile programs in the country, has found itself in a competitive environment where NIL is playing an increasingly important role.

This shift has created a more nationalized recruiting approach, one that doesn’t just focus on getting the top high school players, but also on securing top-tier transfers from other programs. Alabama football’s focus in 2025 is not just about getting players who are fresh out of high school, but also attracting talented athletes who have experience at other programs and can immediately contribute to the team. In the era of the transfer portal, Alabama has had to adapt to a new world where rosters can change rapidly.

DeBoer, who himself has navigated the complexities of recruiting at various programs, likely recognizes the challenges Alabama faces as it balances the traditional emphasis on elite high school talent with the modern necessity of securing established players through the portal and leveraging NIL deals to gain a competitive advantage.

While Alabama is still an elite program with the resources to succeed, the evolving landscape of recruiting—and the impact of NIL and the transfer portal—may be making the program “feel different” in ways that weren’t as prominent in the past. Programs like Washington, under DeBoer’s leadership, are thriving by embracing the new recruiting era. It’s possible that DeBoer’s statement reflects an understanding that Alabama, once an indomitable force in traditional recruiting, is now navigating uncharted waters.

Program Culture and The Changing Identity of Alabama Football

As Alabama football adapts to the changing recruiting landscape and the eventual transition of leadership from Nick Saban, its program culture is also undergoing some shifts. Historically, the culture of Alabama football has been synonymous with toughness, discipline, and a no-nonsense approach to the game. Under Saban’s leadership, the program prided itself on physicality, defensive prowess, and a relentless running game that wore down opponents.

However, in 2025, there’s a growing sense that Alabama football is evolving in a different direction. The shift in offensive philosophy has been evident for the past several years, as Alabama’s offense has become more dynamic and pass-oriented. This shift was apparent when Bryce Young took the reins at quarterback and elevated the Crimson Tide’s offense to new heights.

While Alabama is still known for its defense and physicality, the offense is beginning to take center stage in a way that it never has before. The program has embraced more innovative, modern strategies, and the infusion of young talent is leading to a more balanced, up-tempo style of play. Alabama is still physically dominant, but it’s now using speed and athleticism to push the envelope offensively.

Kalen DeBoer, whose offense at Washington has been defined by its explosiveness and versatility, can likely sense this shift happening at Alabama. The team is evolving into a program that values high-scoring offenses and game-changing athletes on both sides of the ball. This evolution is important not just for Alabama’s recruiting efforts but for its overall identity. As the program continues to incorporate more modern concepts on offense and defense, the program’s historical identity as a grind-it-out, smash-mouth team might give way to something more versatile and unpredictable.

The Impact of College Football Playoff Expansion

Another significant factor contributing to the feeling of change at Alabama is the expansion of the College Football Playoff (CFP) in 2024. With the CFP moving to a 12-team format, the dynamics of college football postseason play have shifted dramatically. Now, more teams have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs, which could impact the way that elite programs like Alabama approach their seasons.

For years, Alabama’s dominance in college football was fueled by the understanding that making the CFP was almost a given. However, with the expanded playoff, there’s more room for teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and even Group of Five conferences to assert themselves. This new reality could lead to even more intense competition at the top of college football, and for Alabama, it could make the road to a championship even more challenging.

DeBoer, as a coach with experience navigating the competitive landscape of college football, understands the shifting dynamics that come with an expanded playoff. Alabama’s new normal—which may be characterized by a more unpredictable postseason landscape—could be another factor that makes the program feel different in 2025. With more teams entering the playoff hunt, the competition will be stiffer, and Alabama may face more challenges than it has in the past, even with its historically high recruiting standards.