Kalen DeBoer didn’t think Alabama football’s quarterbacks are different enough to warrant using a two-QB system in 2025.

As college football continues to evolve, so too do the strategies used by the game’s most successful teams. One area where strategy has become a focal point in recent years is at the quarterback position. With the increasing popularity of dual-threat quarterbacks, mobility and versatility have become essential assets in a team’s offensive scheme. This has led many programs to experiment with a two-quarterback system, hoping to maximize their chances by keeping defenses on their toes.

However, not all coaches share the belief that employing two quarterbacks is a viable or successful approach. Kalen DeBoer, head coach of the Washington Huskies, has a nuanced take on the situation. He recently offered his opinion on Alabama’s quarterback situation as the Crimson Tide looks to build its offense heading into the 2025 season. DeBoer, known for his keen understanding of offensive strategy and player development, doesn’t believe that Alabama’s quarterbacks are different enough to justify utilizing a two-QB system in 2025.

This stance contrasts with what some other programs have attempted over the years, where two quarterbacks of distinctly different playing styles are used in various situations, creating a sort of quarterback “package.” For many fans and analysts, the two-QB system has become an intriguing concept, but DeBoer’s perspective sheds light on the importance of stability, consistency, and knowing your personnel when it comes to managing such a high-profile position.

In this piece, we will take a deep dive into DeBoer’s thoughts on the two-quarterback system, especially as it relates to Alabama football. We’ll explore why DeBoer doesn’t see a need for this kind of strategy in 2025 and examine the potential impact on the Crimson Tide’s season. Additionally, we’ll look at how Alabama’s quarterback situation is shaping up and why a clear starter might be the key to success.

Understanding the Two-Quarterback System: A Brief Overview

Before diving into Kalen DeBoer’s thoughts on Alabama’s quarterbacks, it’s helpful to first understand the concept of the two-quarterback system. A two-QB system typically involves utilizing two different quarterbacks who bring contrasting skill sets to the table. This can be used to exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses or to keep defensive coordinators guessing about the types of plays that might be run. The two quarterbacks could either complement each other, where one is more of a pocket passer and the other a mobile, dual-threat signal-caller, or they could simply alternate for match-up purposes.

In the past, many programs have had success with a two-quarterback system when they’ve had a clear division in skill sets between the two players. One quarterback might be better at throwing the ball deep, while the other might excel at running and scrambling. In these scenarios, teams have used the system to create dynamic offensive schemes and make it harder for defenses to anticipate what’s coming next.

However, the two-quarterback system isn’t without its risks. Having multiple quarterbacks can sometimes lead to a lack of rhythm and consistency within the offense. Moreover, when quarterbacks are frequently substituted, it can be difficult to develop a sense of timing, chemistry, and leadership. As a result, some coaches prefer to pick a single quarterback to lead the offense, ensuring stability and continuity throughout the season.

For Alabama football, this question of using multiple quarterbacks has become a point of discussion heading into 2025. After a season filled with uncertainties at the quarterback position, many expected head coach Nick Saban and his staff to entertain the idea of utilizing two quarterbacks to make the most of their roster’s talent. Yet Kalen DeBoer, who is renowned for his offensive acumen, has voiced a more conservative approach, asserting that the quarterbacks Alabama has are not varied enough in style to warrant such a strategy.

DeBoer’s Analysis: Why Two-QB Systems Don’t Always Work

Kalen DeBoer’s perspective on the use of a two-QB system isn’t just rooted in personal preference; it’s a product of his experience coaching quarterbacks and developing offensive schemes. DeBoer has built a reputation for his high-powered offenses at Indiana, Fresno State, and now Washington, and he is widely regarded as a coach who values stability at the quarterback position. In his view, quarterbacks must be allowed to settle into their roles, grow with the offense, and develop chemistry with their teammates, something that’s harder to achieve with a rotating quarterback situation.

In his analysis of Alabama’s quarterback situation for 2025, DeBoer noted that the quarterbacks on the roster were capable but did not offer the stark contrast in styles that would justify a two-QB system. He explained that a successful two-quarterback system often hinges on having two quarterbacks who complement each other in terms of their skill sets—such as a traditional pocket passer paired with a mobile, dual-threat quarterback. However, DeBoer didn’t believe that Alabama’s quarterbacks in 2025 were different enough in their playing styles to benefit from such a setup.

“For a two-quarterback system to work, you need to have two players who bring something uniquely different to the table,” DeBoer said. “Alabama’s quarterbacks, while talented, are similar enough in style that alternating them doesn’t necessarily give you a strategic advantage. In most cases, it just disrupts the flow of the offense.”

DeBoer went on to explain that quarterback continuity is critical to a successful offense, particularly in the high-pressure world of the SEC. He cited the importance of a quarterback being able to establish rhythm, build confidence, and develop timing with his receivers. With a two-QB system, these factors are more difficult to achieve.

“Imagine a situation where a quarterback is getting into a groove, but then he’s pulled for another guy who doesn’t have the same rhythm with the offense,” DeBoer continued. “That’s a surefire way to hinder progress. That’s why a program like Alabama, which has elite talent across the board, should focus on developing one quarterback and letting him grow within the system.”

Alabama’s Quarterback Situation Heading into 2025

As DeBoer pointed out, Alabama’s quarterback room in 2025 may not lend itself to a two-QB system. With Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, and Tyler Buchner all vying for the starting role, there’s a sense that the Crimson Tide could benefit from having a clear leader under center. Each of these quarterbacks brings his own set of strengths and weaknesses to the table, but none seem to be so drastically different in terms of style that they would necessitate an alternating system.

• Jalen Milroe: Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Milroe has impressed with his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. However, his passing accuracy and decision-making have been questioned at times, which has led some to believe he could benefit from additional development.
• Ty Simpson: Simpson, a highly-rated prospect, offers a more traditional pocket-passing style but has shown glimpses of mobility. His experience and football IQ could make him the more reliable option for Saban in the long run.
• Tyler Buchner: After transferring from Notre Dame, Buchner brings with him significant experience, though his time as a starter in college football has been somewhat limited. His ability to lead the offense and adapt to Saban’s system will be crucial in his pursuit of the starting role.

While each of these quarterbacks has potential, none stand out as being vastly different enough from one another to warrant the use of a two-QB system. Instead, the focus for Alabama will likely shift toward developing one of these quarterbacks into a true leader for the team.

The Importance of Stability in Alabama’s Offense

DeBoer’s perspective on the two-quarterback system aligns with what many observers believe is key for Alabama’s success in 2025: stability at the quarterback position. With so much talent surrounding the quarterback, including elite receivers and an offensive line capable of protecting the passer, it’s crucial that the team has one signal-caller who can lead the offense with confidence.

Nick Saban has always been a coach who values consistency, and with so much uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position in recent seasons, settling on a starter and allowing him to lead the offense may be the best path forward for Alabama. The rise of Bryce Young as a Heisman Trophy winner and one of the nation’s top quarterbacks was largely due to his ability to lead Alabama’s offense without the distraction of rotating quarterbacks. Saban and his staff may be hoping for a similar outcome in 2025.

For Alabama to return to championship contention, the team must have clarity at the quarterback position. While Milroe, Simpson, and Buchner all have the potential to succeed, the lack of a distinct contrast in their playing styles means that Alabama doesn’t need to employ a two-quarterback system to keep opponents guessing. Instead, what they need is a stable, well-coached quarterback who can command the offense and make plays when it counts.

Kalen DeBoer’s thoughts on Alabama’s quarterback situation in 2025 suggest that the Crimson Tide should focus on developing a clear leader under center, rather than experimenting with a two-quarterback system. With three talented quarterbacks competing for the starting job, the most effective approach for Alabama is to allow one quarterback to settle into the role and lead the offense with consistency and confidence.

While the transfer portal and modern recruiting practices have made college football more dynamic than ever before, the importance of stability at quarterback cannot be overstated. As DeBoer emphasized, it’s difficult to achieve offensive rhythm with a constantly rotating group of quarterbacks. Instead, the key for Alabama’s success in 2025 will be ensuring that one quarterback steps up and takes control of the offense, helping to guide the team to its next championship challenge.