With Alabama’s 28-14 Iron Bowl victory over Auburn, head coach Kalen DeBoer achieved a historic milestone, surpassing Nick Saban and Bear Bryant’s debut-season records. Yet, with a 9-3 record and three losses clouding their playoff hopes, DeBoer isn’t backing down from making a case to the College Football Committee.
In the postgame press conference, DeBoer passionately defended Alabama’s playoff candidacy, pointing to their wins against high-caliber teams like Georgia, Missouri, and LSU. He emphasized the Crimson Tide’s strong finish to the season, winning five of their last six games, including consecutive victories over ranked opponents. “We beat some high-quality teams,” DeBoer remarked. “Teams that are still playing good football.”
The Crimson Tide’s path to the playoffs has been tumultuous. Early triumphs, including a statement win over Georgia, gave Alabama a 4-0 start. But an upset loss to Vanderbilt ignited skepticism, putting immense pressure on DeBoer in his first year. While they rebounded with key victories, a late-season defeat to Oklahoma left their playoff prospects hanging by a thread.
Despite the challenges, the Iron Bowl win strengthens DeBoer’s claim. Clemson and Miami’s recent losses have opened the door slightly for Alabama, giving them a chance to sneak into the 12-team playoff bracket. The College Football Committee will unveil its final rankings on December 3, which will determine whether DeBoer’s Crimson Tide can complete an improbable playoff run.
Will Alabama’s strong finish and historic leadership under DeBoer be enough to sway the committee? The Tide’s fate remains uncertain, but DeBoer’s unwavering confidence keeps their playoff dreams alive.
