Alabama fans are speaking out after a 9-win season that left a sour taste in their mouths. The Crimson Tide’s shocking losses to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, plus a heartbreaking loss to Tennessee, meant they missed out on the College Football Playoff. As DeBoer heads into his second year, fans are sharing their opinions on what needs to change.
Fans want DeBoer to show more strength and leadership, holding players accountable for their actions. Some believe the defense needs to be top-notch, while others think consistency on offense is key. There’s a consensus that the team needs to tighten up and focus on the game, rather than celebrating individual plays. Fans are tired of seeing the Tide lose to teams they should beat, and many think consistency is the key to success.
One fan, Benjamin Wesley Loggins, said, “Stop trying to be the players’ friend. Players respect strength and leadership. They don’t need their Coach to be their friend, they need their Coach to hold them and everybody else accountable, and show them that lack of effort or discipline will not be tolerated. DeBoer is too soft!” Others echoed similar sentiments, with Elder Rod Caldwell saying, “The Defense will be top 3 in the SEC! The offense has to be more consistent. Being able to run the ball is a must!!!” Christopher Smith added, “Beating teams you should never lose to.” Sheila Taylor emphasized the importance of accountability, saying, “Accountability from the entire team for their position.”
Johnny Johnson Jr. thinks consistent offense and defense are crucial, stating, “Consistent offense, QB, O-line, and especially play calling. A defense that is aggressive, disciplined, and does not give up so many big plays on the back end.” Martha Ellis agrees, saying, “Discipline, consistency, stop the dancing after a play and focus on the next play. Practice like it’s a game. He has the talent on both sides of the ball. So, coach them to be better than they were the day before.”
Eric King added, “Discipline and accountability we cannot have mental meltdowns on the field when things don’t go our way.” Brandyn Leonard was blunt, saying, “Not let the inmates run the prison.” Micah Long thinks consistency is the biggest issue, stating, “Consistency. The biggest issue last year was consistency. You win a huge game against Georgia, then lose to Vanderbilt the next week. You cream LSU in Death Valley, then get blown out by Oklahoma the next week. You finish strong against Auburn, then look terrible against Michigan. Just winning the games you’re supposed to is one of the biggest things he needs to do in year 2.”
John Hanby believes starting the right quarterback is crucial, saying, “Starting the right Quarterback no matter what the fans or players think.” With these opinions in mind, it’s clear that Alabama fans are hungry for a championship, and they’re looking to DeBoer to deliver.
