TLDR: Kalen DeBoer is stepping into the role of head coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide, a move announced by Director Greg Byrne. DeBoer has a remarkable coaching record, boasting a 104-12 win-loss tally over nine seasons. Before Bama, he led Washington to its most successful season yet, clinching a Pac-12 Championship and the school’s first College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Byrne praised DeBoer as a caring and strategic coach, someone he’d choose for his own kids. DeBoer, too, expressed his respect for Alabama’s football history and thanked the university’s leadership for the opportunity to follow in Nick Saban’s illustrious footsteps. DeBoer’s track record at Washington and earlier stints, including winning national titles with Sioux Falls and successful seasons at Fresno State, speak volumes of his coaching potential. His offensive prowess also guided Michael Penix Jr. to a Maxwell Award in 2023. DeBoer is ready to continue Alabama’s esteemed tradition of excellence, eagerly looking forward to engaging with the Tuscaloosa community.

Alabama’s football program is ushering in a new era with Kalen DeBoer at the helm. Director of Athletics Greg Byrne announced Friday that the former Washington coach will lead the Crimson Tide. Byrne was full of praise, saying Alabama’s lucky to snag such a strategic thinker who cares about his players. Known for his strong record—leading the Huskies to 25 wins against just 3 losses—DeBoer’s tenure shows why he’s one helluva coach. Byrne made it clear, “When it comes to Xs and Os, and being a mentor, DeBoer’s second to none.”

Now, let me tell y’all, DeBoer’s no stranger to winning. In nine seasons, he’s racked up 104 victories with only 12 defeats. Over at Washington, he chalked up the school’s best season—14 wins, a Pac-12 Championship, and a shot at the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. And don’t forget those two back-to-back Pac-12 Coach of the Year awards! DeBoer’s makin’ history, and now, all eyes are on him to bring that magic to Tuscaloosa.

DeBoer himself is thrilled about the opportunity. He’s quite the family man; he, his wife Nicole, and daughters Alexis and Avery are hyped to join Alabama’s bustling community. The man respects his predecessors, especially Nick Saban, whose legendary status he hopes to honor. “I wouldn’t leave Washington for just any team,” DeBoer said, underlining the allure and prestige of Bama’s program. It’s a legacy of greatness he’s ready to uphold.

From his roots as a standout player at the University of Sioux Falls to a celebrated coach, DeBoer’s trek through college coaching has been a victorious one. His stint turning Fresno State around—12 wins there—and a spectacular run with three NAIA national titles at Sioux Falls laid the groundwork. Add in winning coaches’ awards and guiding players like Maxwell Award winner Michael Penix Jr., and you got yourself a coach who knows a thing or two about the game.

As he takes on the reins of Alabama’s program, DeBoer has countless fans excited, me included! Folks around Tuscaloosa are lookin’ forward to seeing this football maestro in action. With Alabama’s rich history and DeBoer’s track record of success, the game’s just started in a brand new playin’ field, y’all, and I can’t wait to see where this partnership goes!