Alabama football is in unfamiliar territory this postseason, as the program faces the challenge of rebounding from being left out of the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the first time under the new 12-team format. Despite the disappointment, first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer remains optimistic about his team’s future and the opportunity to finish strong against Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl.
DeBoer on Player Opt-Outs
Head coach Kalen DeBoer addressed the possibility of player opt-outs for the bowl game, particularly with NFL Draft-eligible stars like quarterback Jalen Milroe in the spotlight. In an interview with BamaOnLine’s Charlie Potter, DeBoer expressed confidence in his players’ commitment to the game:
> “I feel like right now we’re in a place where most of those guys are planning on playing; I don’t care what round they’re planning on going in [the NFL Draft].”
This sentiment reflects DeBoer’s desire to maintain a competitive and unified team culture, even as players weigh the risks and benefits of playing in a non-playoff bowl game.
The Road to Exclusion
Alabama’s omission from the CFP was a controversial decision, as the Crimson Tide had a strong resume that included three top-25 wins and a signature victory over then-No. 2 Georgia. However, the CFP committee prioritized conference championships and records, which ultimately benefited No. 10 SMU, who secured the final at-large spot.
SMU’s inclusion, despite losses to two ranked teams, highlighted the importance of winning conference titles in the committee’s evaluation process. Alabama’s own resume was marred by shocking losses to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, with the latter being a 21-point defeat in November. These setbacks, coupled with other conference champions like Clemson and Arizona State earning automatic bids, left Alabama on the outside looking in.
Lessons for the Future
The playoff exclusion has sparked introspection within Alabama’s program. Athletic Director Greg Byrne has hinted at a potential reevaluation of future nonconference scheduling to avoid a similar fate. The committee’s decision underscored the importance of balancing strength of schedule with conference success, a lesson Alabama may integrate into its strategy moving forward.
A Chance to Build
While the disappointment is palpable, Alabama’s clash with Michigan offers an opportunity to end the season on a high note. A victory would preserve the program’s streak of 10-win seasons, which dates back to 2007, and provide a morale boost for seniors and younger players alike. It’s also a chance for DeBoer to solidify his culture and leadership in Tuscaloosa.
Additionally, Alabama’s recruiting future remains bright, as the program boasts the No. 2 recruiting class for 2025. A strong performance against Michigan would reaffirm the team’s status as a premier destination for elite talent, ensuring no significant fallout from the playoff snub.
Looking Ahead
The Crimson Tide’s frustrations with the 2024 season should serve as fuel for a resurgence in 2025. DeBoer’s first season has had its ups and downs, but his ability to navigate this challenging moment could define his tenure. The loss to Vanderbilt and late-season collapse against Oklahoma may have cost Alabama a playoff spot, but the program’s foundation remains strong.
As Alabama takes on Michigan on December 31, it will not only be about finishing this season with a victory but also laying the groundwork for a return to dominance. The ReliaQuest Bowl may not carry the same weight as a CFP appearance, but it offers a chance for the Crimson Tide to make a statement: Alabama isn’t going anywhere.
