“It could get a little uncomfortable”: Joel Klatt predicts Kalen DeBoer’s fate at Alabama in year 2

A lot of fans were concerned about Nick Saban's legacy at Alabama and the program's future after the seven-time national champ retired after 17 years. However, most analysts thought Kalen DeBoer was a homerun of a choice as his replacement.

DeBoer proved himself to be a competent coach everywhere he went, whether at Fresno State or Washington. Not many doubted that DeBoer was the right person to take Saban's legacy further.

However, his first season with the Crimson Tide wasn't up to the fans' standards. The team finished with a 9-4 (5-3 Southeastern Conference) record, which was the first campaign in 17 years that it didnt end the season with 10+ wins.

With DeBoer heading into his second year, fans expect more from him. While he looks more comfortable in terms of recruiting and also having the support from Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, college football analyst Joel Klatt believes he can be on the hot seat if things dont go as planned.

"He obviously has been great everywhere that he's been, as a head coach, in particular, making the national championship game with Washington right before he got down to Tuscaloosa," Klatt said on Monday (04:00), via "The Joel Klatt Show."

"He's in place at a place that is expected to win, and not just win, but win big and win at the highest level of college football. Can't miss a playoff in particular, as we have expansion to 12, and we're going to be moving in 2026, and beyond, to 14, possibly 16, or most likely 16. ... I think that it could get a little uncomfortable for Kalen DeBoer."

Ryan Williams spills the beans on Kalen DeBoer's QB battle at Alabama

Alabama has three talented but inexperienced quarterbacks on its roster: Keelon Russell, Austin Mack and Ty Simpson.

Simpson is considered the frontrunner for the starting position as he's been developing behind Jalen Milroe for two years.

Crimson Tide wide receiver Ryan Williams talked about the quarterback battle on Thursday.

"Like you said, Ty (Simpson) is the frontrunner right now, just trying to build a relationship with not only him but the rest of them of course, just get prepared for this season," Williams said, via "College GameDay." "We’re super excited.”

Kalen DeBoer's Alabama will face Mike Norvell's FSU to start its 2025 college football season on Aug. 30.