With Alabama expected to overcome Jalen Milroe’s mistakes, Kalen DeBoer’s quarterback dilemma takes a new turn.

The 2025 college football season is already shaping up to be one of the most dramatic in recent years, with several high-profile programs looking to overcome key obstacles and set themselves up for success. Among these programs, Alabama and Washington stand out for the decisions they will need to make at the quarterback position—decisions that have the potential to define their respective seasons. For Alabama, the expectation is that the team will be able to overcome Jalen Milroe’s mistakes and turn him into a reliable leader under center. On the other hand, Kalen DeBoer’s Washington Huskies are grappling with their own quarterback dilemma, one that threatens to disrupt the program’s momentum.

While Alabama has historically thrived despite its quarterbacks’ occasional mistakes, Kalen DeBoer and his staff face a more complex challenge at Washington. DeBoer’s offense, which relies heavily on quarterback efficiency and precision, has placed an immense amount of pressure on the position. For Washington, the quarterback conundrum is more about finding stability, consistency, and the right fit within the offensive system. While DeBoer has built an offensive juggernaut at Washington, the success of his program hinges on finding a leader who can guide it to the next level. As Alabama looks to find ways to support Milroe’s development and mitigate his errors, DeBoer’s recruitment and development of Washington’s quarterback will take on even greater importance.

This article explores how Jalen Milroe’s mistakes and Alabama’s faith in his potential could shift the tide for both programs, as well as how Kalen DeBoer’s quarterback dilemma at Washington adds a new dimension to the growing narrative surrounding these two teams.

Alabama’s Faith in Jalen Milroe: Overcoming Mistakes for Success

Jalen Milroe has been one of the more polarizing quarterbacks in college football. Milroe, a highly talented dual-threat quarterback, has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited time as Alabama’s starter. His combination of arm strength, athleticism, and playmaking ability makes him a dangerous weapon, particularly in Alabama’s up-tempo, physical offensive system. However, Milroe’s inconsistency and propensity for making mistakes have raised concerns about his ability to lead the Crimson Tide back to their traditional level of dominance.

Milroe’s turnovers, misreads, and inability to maintain composure in big moments were key factors in Alabama’s struggles during the 2024 season. While he has shown that he can make explosive plays and lead Alabama to big wins, the mistakes that often accompanied his performance made him a liability at times. Many analysts have questioned whether he has the mental and emotional maturity to handle the pressure that comes with being the starting quarterback for a program with the expectations of Alabama.

Despite these flaws, head coach Nick Saban and the Alabama coaching staff have expressed unwavering faith in Milroe’s potential. Saban has built a dynasty around cultivating quarterbacks, and it seems that he is prepared to give Milroe every opportunity to grow and develop into a reliable starter. One thing that Saban’s Alabama teams are known for is their ability to manage the quarterback position—whether through meticulous development, veteran leadership, or a dominant defense that can carry the load. For Milroe, this means he has room to grow and the benefit of Saban’s elite coaching staff to help him refine his decision-making and minimize his mistakes.

Expectations surrounding Milroe are high heading into the 2025 season. There is a strong belief in Tuscaloosa that with the right support system in place, Milroe will be able to overcome his past errors and develop into a more polished signal caller. Alabama’s powerful defense and ground game are expected to alleviate some of the pressure on Milroe, giving him the opportunity to learn from his mistakes without the weight of the offense solely resting on his shoulders. If Milroe can cut down on turnovers, improve his pocket awareness, and make better decisions in critical moments, Alabama’s offense will be well-positioned to challenge for another national championship.

For Alabama, it’s not about finding a new quarterback; it’s about trusting Milroe’s potential and giving him the tools and confidence needed to succeed. While the Crimson Tide’s championship aspirations are not solely dependent on Milroe, a more consistent and efficient Milroe under center could be the key to unlocking Alabama’s offensive dominance once again. The program’s ability to work through his mistakes and continue to develop him will be crucial for their success in 2025 and beyond.

Kalen DeBoer’s Quarterback Dilemma at Washington

While Alabama focuses on helping Jalen Milroe overcome his mistakes, Kalen DeBoer’s Washington Huskies face an entirely different challenge. Washington’s offense, which has been one of the most dynamic in the country, relies heavily on a well-executed passing game and precise quarterback play. DeBoer’s innovative offensive schemes have helped Washington become one of the top teams in the Pac-12, but the quarterback position remains the one area where there is uncertainty.

Washington’s previous starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., left a massive hole when he declared for the NFL Draft. Penix, who enjoyed a stellar career under DeBoer, had a transformative impact on Washington’s offense. His ability to push the ball downfield, paired with his poise in critical moments, made him one of the top quarterbacks in the country. With Penix now gone, DeBoer must find a quarterback who can keep the offensive machine running at a high level.

Currently, the Huskies have a quarterback competition on their hands. The most likely candidates are sophomore Sam Huard and transfer quarterback Harrison Bailey. Both players bring unique strengths to the table, but neither has proven themselves as a clear-cut answer to replace Penix’s production and leadership. Huard, the son of former NFL quarterback Damon Huard, has shown promise in limited action but has yet to demonstrate the consistency needed to lead Washington to a playoff berth. Bailey, a transfer from Tennessee, has the physical tools to be a star but needs to prove he can execute DeBoer’s high-powered offense in game situations.

The dilemma for DeBoer is that Washington’s offense demands a level of precision and decision-making that may take time to develop. Unlike Alabama, where the team’s defense and running game can alleviate some of the pressure on the quarterback, Washington’s system places the quarterback in a more vulnerable position. The Huskies’ offense is predicated on quick throws, spreading the field, and making plays through the air. For DeBoer’s system to function at its highest level, the quarterback must be able to execute all of these elements consistently.

This creates a high level of pressure on the young quarterbacks in the system. DeBoer’s success at Washington is closely tied to his ability to identify and develop a quarterback who can operate within his system and keep the offense running smoothly. If Huard or Bailey is unable to step up and take command of the offense, it could set Washington back significantly in their quest for a Pac-12 title and a College Football Playoff berth.

Comparing the Quarterback Situations: Alabama vs. Washington

While Alabama and Washington face similar challenges with their quarterbacks, the way each program is approaching the situation highlights key differences. For Alabama, the focus is on refining Jalen Milroe’s skills and helping him learn from his mistakes. The Crimson Tide’s system is designed to protect Milroe, allowing him to develop while still competing at a high level. The defense and running game can carry Alabama through games, and if Milroe can limit his turnovers and mistakes, the offense will be effective enough to win big games.

Washington, on the other hand, does not have the luxury of relying on a dominant defense or an elite running game to take pressure off the quarterback. Kalen DeBoer’s system places a premium on passing efficiency, and without a proven quarterback, Washington risks falling short of its potential. The Huskies need a quarterback who can manage the offense, make accurate throws, and avoid costly mistakes. If Huard or Bailey struggles to take control, DeBoer may have to adjust his system or make difficult decisions regarding playing time.

For both programs, the quarterback position will be a key factor in their success during the 2025 season. Alabama is betting that Milroe can overcome his mistakes and develop into a capable leader, while Washington is hoping that one of their quarterbacks will emerge as a reliable signal caller in a high-pressure system. The success of each program’s quarterback will likely determine whether they can meet their lofty expectations and compete for national championships or playoff berths.

The Road Ahead: Can Alabama and Washington Meet Their Expectations?

For Alabama, the pressure is on Milroe to show that he can overcome his mistakes and lead the Crimson Tide back to the top of college football. The team is built to contend for a national championship, but Milroe’s performance will be a critical factor in determining whether Alabama can reach those heights. With the support of Saban’s staff and a talented roster around him, Milroe has the potential to be the difference-maker Alabama needs.

For Washington, Kalen DeBoer faces a more difficult road. The quarterback position is crucial to the Huskies’ success, and if they are unable to find a steady leader, their national title aspirations could be derailed. While DeBoer has built an offensive juggernaut, the quarterback position remains the missing piece to make the Huskies a legitimate contender on the national stage.

As the 2025 season unfolds, both Alabama and Washington will be keeping a close eye on their quarterback situations. Milroe’s growth and DeBoer’s ability to find a reliable starter will be central to the outcome of their respective seasons. The future of these programs rests on the shoulders of their quarterbacks, and how they navigate these dilemmas could shape the trajectory of their seasons—and possibly their programs—moving forward.