Full Breakdown
DeBoer Charts Alabama’s Offseason: Reviving the Run and Keeping the QB Race Open
7/23/2026, 1:40:06 PM
DeBoer Sets Offseason Priorities at SEC Media Days
At SEC Media Days in Tampa, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer outlined two central goals for the Crimson Tide’s 2026 campaign: restoring a physical rushing attack and finalizing the quarterback competition between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell. DeBoer said the team must “run the football better” and that the quarterback battle will “lead to a tough decision” as fall camp approaches.
Rushing Struggles in 2025 Prompted a New Focus
Alabama’s 2025 season exposed a pronounced weakness in the ground game. The Tide finished near the bottom of the SEC in rushing yards per game and were unable to control the line of scrimmage during their College Football Playoff loss to Indiana. Turnover on the offensive line and the lack of a featured back contributed to the decline, prompting DeBoer to prioritize “toughness” and “physicality” in the offseason.
Statistical Snapshot of the Tide’s Ground Game
- 3.25 yards per rush, 15th of 16 SEC teams.
- 42 rushing plays of at least 10 yards, the fewest in more than a decade.
- 104.1 yards per game and 3.4 yards per carry in 2025.
- 132nd in rushing success rate and 110th nationally in EPA-per-rush (Game on Paper).
Quarterback Competition Remains Open
The competition will hinge on poise, execution, and the ability to manage the offense under pressure. DeBoer refrained from naming a frontrunner, stressing that the decision will be made after evaluating performance in fall camp.
Official Statements & Responses
DeBoer linked the run-game overhaul to overall success, saying improving the rushing attack “will help our overall team.” He noted the hiring of offensive line coach Adrian Klemm and the addition of eleven new front-seven players as essential for rebuilding “continuity” and “communication” on the line. Regarding the quarterback race, DeBoer added that “our quarterbacks do have the belief and trust amongst our entire team,” and the final choice will depend on poise and consistency.
Cornerback Zabien Brown echoed the need to “raise our level” to meet championship standards, while safety Bray Hubbard defended the team’s effort after the CFP loss, calling critics’ comments “free country” but affirming the Tide remains a “great team.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want to be able to run the football better,” — Kalen DeBoer
- “Our quarterbacks do have the belief and trust amongst our entire team,” — Kalen DeBoer
What’s Next
Alabama’s 2026 schedule opens with a home game against East Carolina on September 5. Early SEC matchups include trips to Kentucky and South Carolina, both featuring strong defensive fronts. The performance of the revamped offensive line and the eventual starting quarterback will be closely monitored in these initial contests as the Tide seeks a return to championship contention.
