Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer demonstrated why he differs from Nick Saban, and it’s a positive aspect.
At the SEC spring meetings this week, there’s been much discussion about potential football roster-size reductions following the House court case settlement. While the outcome remains uncertain, there’s a possibility that rosters could shrink, along with a potential decrease in the number of allowed walk-ons.
Alabama football coach Kalen DeBoer addressed this topic when questioned by reporters on Tuesday. Instead of delivering a lecture, DeBoer shared a philosophy: focus on controlling what you can, avoid overreacting, and adapt as necessary.
While some coaches might express concern or frustration about such changes, DeBoer’s approach was more pragmatic, emphasizing the importance of managing the situation regardless of the outcome.
That’s not DeBoer’s style, however. He consistently appears calm, with a heart rate that seemingly never rises above approximately 60 beats per minute.
When DeBoer was asked about roster sizes, he responded in a manner that should instill confidence in Alabama fans.
“You can ask me any question, and I’m always going to say, ‘There’s always a way to get it done,’” DeBoer remarked.
If rosters were to shrink, it would affect practices more than games. DeBoer indicated that if this change were to occur, he would reassess how he conducts practice sessions and examine how NFL teams handle practices with smaller rosters.
Overall, he appeared quite indifferent to the potential change, expressing a willingness to adapt to the evolving circumstances.
“I’ve always been one to adjust to the times,” DeBoer stated.
That’s not merely a significant quote; it embodies a winning mindset.
The most successful coaches don’t maintain their position by resisting change; they excel because they adapt more effectively than their competitors.
This principle was often emphasized by Nick Saban, who frequently alluded to dinosaurs in his discussions.
“Dinosaurs couldn’t adapt, and they’re not around anymore,” Saban would remark.
While there are aspects of Saban’s approach that DeBoer won’t replicate – notably his absence of lengthy lectures on Tuesday – DeBoer recognizes the value of adopting this specific quality from Saban’s coaching philosophy.
Over the years, Saban set the standard for adaptability, even when faced with changes he didn’t initially embrace. This evolved during the latter stages of Saban’s career, particularly when Alabama lagged behind in adapting to the NIL era compared to some other programs.
However, Saban excelled at adjusting to changing circumstances. For instance, despite initially criticizing up-tempo offenses, Saban ultimately embraced change and hired Lane Kiffin to modernize Alabama’s offense, resulting in three additional national championships.
The 2020 season, amidst a pandemic, showcased Saban’s and his team’s adaptability. DeBoer has cited this as an example of his own ability to adapt.
Beyond the pandemic, DeBoer’s success across multiple levels and conferences across the country, despite various roster challenges, is commendable. While he lacks experience coaching in the SEC, his track record of adaptability instills confidence. With a career record of 104-12, DeBoer has demonstrated his capacity to evolve from one job to another, across different regions and styles of play.
His approach, focused on the players, X’s and O’s, and staff, highlights his commitment to adaptation and the pursuit of success. These traits align with those of successful Alabama coaches, albeit with fewer lectures.
In essence, DeBoer’s philosophy mirrors that of other adaptable Alabama coaches, positioning him well for the challenges ahead.
