Football
Finebaum doesn’t believe Alabama coach on hot seat
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — College football has quite the unforgiving nature from its fanbases across the country, especially it a program sustained a high level of excellence like Alabama did under Nick Saban.
As Alabama football prepares for the 2025 season, the question of head coach Kalen DeBoer’s job security has become a topic of discussion for inexplicable reasons.
Sure, his team lost to three unranked opponents such as Vanderbilt, Oklahoma and Michigan, but it was a transition season at Alabama. Sometimes patience is required.
It’s no secret that Alabama’s standard is to compete for national championships and the team’s most recent performance certainly didn’t reflect those expectations.
Paul Finebaum, a veteran college football analyst and longtime voice in SEC circles, recently addressed the issue on ESPN’s “Get Up,” offering perspective on whether DeBoer would be fired if Alabama fails to reach the playoff again.
Under the legendary Nick Saban, Alabama had a near-perfect record of CFP appearances, making the postseason eight times during Saban’s tenure. DeBoer led the Tide to a 9-4 record, but he knows it’s important to not just make the playoff field but advance.
“[DeBoer] won’t be fired; he is still in rather good standing because of the recruiting,” Finebaum said. “But, he needs to make the CFP.”
The implication is that while Alabama’s recruiting success has provided DeBoer some insulation, missing the playoff again will escalate pressure on his tenure.
The landscape for DeBoer has shifted since year one. Notably, Alabama’s former starting quarterback Jalen Milroe has moved on to the NFL, leaving the quarterback position open.
Ty Simpson, a former five-star recruit and three-year backup, was named the starter following spring practice.
Simpson has spoken candidly about the need for Alabama to return to its winning ways, suggesting last season lacked the Tide’s usual standard.
Finebaum did not mince words on the stakes for Alabama in 2025.
“He needs to make the CFP,” Finebaum reiterated, emphasizing the program’s expectations for immediate success.
The Crimson Tide opens the season on Aug. 30 against Florida State, a game that will set the tone for DeBoer’s second season. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
This season will be a critical test for DeBoer and Alabama.
Recruiting prowess has earned him time and plenty of goodwill as Alabama currently ranks No. 4 nationally by 247sports rankings. Alabama’s performance on the field remains paramount in the SEC powerhouse’s culture.
As the Tide prepare to face one of the toughest schedules in the country, the pressure to deliver a playoff berth builds with each day.
For now, DeBoer’s job appears secure, but the message from voices like Finebaum is absolutely clear. Alabama’s standards don’t compromise, winning is the only option.
