The 2024 Alabama football season was marked by inconsistency, with the team struggling to show up in games that didn’t have the same level of hype and attention as some of the bigger matchups. This trend is something that Kalen DeBoer, in his second year, needs to address..
One of the most glaring aspects of this trend was Alabama’s losses to Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. These games didn’t have the same level of attention as some of the other matchups, and it seemed like the team was caught off guard. Vanderbilt, for example, came a week after Alabama’s big win over Georgia, and it seemed like the team was still riding high from that victory.
Tennessee had one loss next to its name, but the Volunteers were trending downward after barely escaping Florida. Oklahoma was hoping to become bowl-eligible after a disappointing season, and Alabama seemed to take them lightly. The result was a 24-3 loss that was one of the most surprising upsets of the season.
On the other hand, Alabama excelled in games where the attention of the college football world was focused. The game against Georgia was considered by some to be the game of the year, and Alabama pulled off a thrilling win. The game against LSU was hyped up as a playoff game, and Alabama dominated the Tigers 42-13.
The Iron Bowl against Auburn was another game where Alabama seemed to rise to the occasion. The game had its typical intensity, with Auburn players taking shots at Alabama in the lead-up. But Alabama was focused and pulled off a convincing 28-14 win.
So, what’s the difference between these games? It seems like Alabama struggled with consistency and focus in games that didn’t have the same level of hype. This is something that DeBoer needs to address in his second year. The team needs to learn how to show up every week, regardless of the opponent or the level of attention.
DeBoer has a challenge ahead of him, but it’s not impossible. With the right mindset and approach, Alabama can learn to be consistent and focused, even in games that don’t have the same level of hype. It will be interesting to see how DeBoer addresses this trend and what changes he makes to ensure that Alabama is more consistent in the 2025 season.
One thing is for sure: Alabama has the talent and the resources to be a dominant team. But it’s not just about having the talent; it’s about having the mindset and the focus to show up every week. If DeBoer can address this trend and get Alabama to be more consistent, the sky’s the limit for the Crimson Tide.
