Kalen DeBoer has proved himself that he’s one of the best HCs that Alabama ever had. Saturday’s victory over Mercer proved more than one thing for the Crimson Tide, with their new HC sweeping up most of the glory. He not only broke Nick Saban‘s record in his debut year in Tuscaloosa but also broke a four-decade program record! 

Following Alabama’s dominant victory over Mercer, Nick Kelly made an announcement in X on November 17. The Alabama beat writer posted, “With the victory over Mercer, Kalen DeBoer has won 8 games this season. That matches the best first season in wins for an Alabama coach since Ray Perkins (8-4) in 1983.” We’re talking about a 41-year-old record! 

All eyes were on Kalen DeBoer this season as he filled the position of the legendary CFB GOAT coach who led Alabama for 17 years. But records speak for themselves. Right from the blowout 63-0 season opener victory against Western Kentucky, the 50-year-old beat Nick Saban’s season opener record, which was 52-6 against the same opponent. If you’re wondering how the GOAT fared in his first season with the Crimson Tide, you’ll be surprised.

It’s not what you think because Nick Saban went 7-6 in his first season in 2007. Six HCs sit in between Ray Perkins and Kalen DeBoer, with the best wins being 7 like Saban. However, a couple of falls along the way, especially with Vanderbilt, tainted his reputation and made him somewhat of a polarizing coach. But that’s beside the point. What matters is that Alabama won their third straight game!

Alabama is thriving under Kalen DeBoer 

“Good to get a win,” said Kalen DeBoer in his post-game speech. In what was the second last home game for Kalen DeBoer and Alabama this season, the Crimson Tide showed the world their dominance with their 52-7 win over Mercer. It was a complete game that brought all of Alabama’s positions to the spotlight, including backups who saw playing time after the Tide’s strong 38-7 halftime lead. Star QB Jalen Milroe finished 11 of 16 passes for 186 yards while running for 43 yards on six carries for a touchdown. 

Alabama may have been one of the top teams for the past few seasons, but let’s not forget this is the same team that faced a serious dilemma back in January when Saban retired. But considering how Kalen DeBoer is steadily leading the program with 8-2 despite the initial hopelessness, it depicts nothing less than a strong and able leadership. Alabama still has two games ahead. They’ll hit the road for a clash with Oklahoma and wrap up their regular season with an Iron Bowl battle against Auburn at home while basking in the glory of their CFP eligibility. 

Also, get a glimpse into how the Griffin sisters are changing football in our exclusive Think Tank podcast.