In addition to DeBoer’s winning track record (104-12 before coming to Tuscaloosa), Dippre was immediately impressed by DeBoer agreeing to succeed arguably the greatest college football coach of all time.

There’s a different feeling within Alabama’s early practices that’s tangible, according to safety Bray Hubbard. Outside of just the general excitement for a new season, there’s a crispness in certain areas that wasn’t present a year ago, the result of a spring under a familiar coaching staff.

Kalen DeBoer is setting clear expectations that 2025 must be better. “Now we understand what this place is all about,” DeBoer said. “All together, the relationships now are there with our players; we can just really take it to the next level.