The Alabama Crimson Tide has long been synonymous with excellence in college football, a program often regarded as the gold standard. However, even the most illustrious dynasties can face turbulence, and Alabama’s 2024 season was a stark reminder of that reality. The team oscillated between moments of brilliance—such as their impressive win over Georgia—and puzzling collapses, including losses to teams they would traditionally dominate. This inconsistency left fans and analysts baffled, as Alabama struggled to maintain the dominance they were once known for.
At the center of this turmoil was quarterback Jalen Milroe, whose future became a focal point of discussion following Alabama’s 19-13 loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Milroe announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft after much anticipation, ending a rollercoaster tenure with the Crimson Tide. While his decision marked the end of one chapter, it also left significant questions about the team’s trajectory moving forward. Milroe, a 5-star recruit out of Duncanville High School, had demonstrated the ability to toe the line between risk and reward. However, his inconsistent performances highlighted deeper issues within the program.
College football analyst Josh Pate weighed in on the matter during his show, dissecting the challenges Alabama faced in 2024. According to Pate, much of the team’s struggles could be attributed to instability at the quarterback position. Despite Milroe’s moments of brilliance against top-tier teams like Georgia and LSU, Alabama’s offense often faltered, epitomized by 11 interceptions over the course of the season. Pate noted that the inconsistency was not reflective of head coach Kalen DeBoer’s system but rather a product of Milroe’s unpredictable performances.
The departure of Milroe now sets the stage for Alabama to rebuild its offense around fresh talent. Among the potential successors, 2025 5-star recruit Keelon Russell stands out as a beacon of hope. Hailed as Alabama’s most highly-rated recruit since Bryce Young, Russell has already garnered significant attention for his poise and exceptional skill set. Measuring 6’4” with an impressive high school record—over 70% completion rate, 3,874 passing yards, and 53 touchdowns to just four interceptions—Russell’s potential is undeniable. However, as Pate cautioned, potential does not automatically translate into championships. Alabama’s path back to dominance will require patience and careful development of its young talent.
For the 2025 season, Alabama’s quarterback competition will feature three key players: senior Ty Simpson, freshman Austin Mack, and the highly anticipated Russell. While Simpson offers experience, his performance thus far has not solidified him as a clear leader. Mack remains an unproven talent, leaving Russell as the most intriguing option. Yet, expecting a true freshman to excel immediately in the SEC—a conference known for its grueling competition—might be overly optimistic. Pate emphasized the importance of managing expectations, noting that while Russell’s abilities are promising, the pressure of leading Alabama to a national championship may require time.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer faces a challenging balancing act as he enters his second year at the helm. With Alabama’s storied history and demanding fanbase, there is little room for mediocrity. A nine-win season, while respectable for many programs, is considered subpar in Tuscaloosa. DeBoer must navigate the delicate task of grooming Russell for the future while keeping Alabama competitive in the present.
Some analysts have speculated that Milroe’s departure could ultimately benefit the program. ESPN’s Paul Finebaum remarked that DeBoer might welcome the chance to work with a quarterback more aligned with his vision. Although Milroe had moments of success, he also shouldered the blame for several losses. This transition provides an opportunity for DeBoer to shape the offense around fresh talent like Russell, whose arrival has sparked comparisons to Bryce Young.
Russell’s arrival has already generated considerable excitement, with some analysts predicting he could follow in Young’s footsteps and compete for the starting role early in his career. However, stepping into the intense environment of SEC football is no small feat, and Alabama’s coaching staff must strike a balance between fostering his development and meeting the program’s high expectations.
Ultimately, the question is whether Alabama can afford to wait for Russell to reach his full potential or if immediate results will be demanded. The 2025 season will be pivotal, not only for Russell but for the program as a whole, as Alabama seeks to reclaim its place at the top of college football.