By Mmesoma 
A new era has officially begun in Tuscaloosa, and while the Alabama Crimson Tide may still be wearing crimson and white, there’s no mistaking that the Nick Saban era has come to a close — and something new is taking shape under head coach Kalen DeBoer.
But what exactly is changing at Alabama? According to college football analyst Greg McElroy, it’s more than just the name on the office door. It’s the culture.
> “The biggest difference between Nick Saban and Kalen DeBoer isn’t just scheme — it’s energy and communication,” McElroy said on a recent episode of Always College Football. “DeBoer is more of a relationship-first coach. He’s approachable, collaborative, and more player-centric in how he runs things. That’s a huge shift for a program that’s been defined by structure, discipline, and hierarchy under Saban.”
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A New Leadership Style
Nick Saban’s legacy at Alabama is undeniable: six national championships, a 201–29 record, and a dynasty that dominated college football for over a decade. His coaching style was famously demanding, detail-oriented, and rooted in his “Process” philosophy — a methodical, results-driven system that left little room for compromise.
Kalen DeBoer, hired from Washington in early 2024 after Saban’s retirement, is bringing in a fresh perspective.
> “There’s still accountability,” McElroy said, “but it’s being delivered differently. DeBoer empowers his staff more freely and fosters deeper player-coach interaction. It’s not better or worse — just different.”
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Scheme and Player Development
Beyond leadership style, the offensive shift under DeBoer is another noticeable change. Known for his creative passing concepts and high-tempo attacks, DeBoer has already started tweaking Alabama’s offensive identity. Returning quarterback Jalen Milroe is reportedly thriving under the new system, which emphasizes quarterback autonomy and downfield aggression.
On defense, longtime assistant Kane Wommack was brought in as coordinator, adding his own aggressive edge while honoring the physical tradition of Alabama defense.
> “They’re not trying to reinvent Alabama football,” McElroy noted. “They’re evolving it — and that’s the key.”
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Fan and Player Reaction
Early reviews from players and staff have been overwhelmingly positive. Wide receiver Isaiah Bond recently told reporters that the “energy in the building feels new and exciting,” while senior linebacker Deontae Lawson praised DeBoer for “listening more and bringing a different type of leadership.”
Even fans, initially wary of the post-Saban world, have shown cautious optimism. Spring game attendance was strong, and social media buzz around DeBoer’s recruiting and player-first approach has remained positive.
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What It Means Going Forward
As Alabama prepares for the 2025 season, the true test of DeBoer’s methods will come on Saturdays. The SEC remains stacked with powerhouses, and expectations in Tuscaloosa haven’t lowered one bit.
Still, McElroy believes DeBoer has what it takes.
> “He’s not trying to be Saban,” he said. “He’s trying to be DeBoer. And that’s the smartest thing he can do.”
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Whether DeBoer’s approach leads to titles remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Alabama is changing — and it all starts at the top.