Kalen DeBoer enters his second campaign after establishing a new culture while replacing Nick Saban during significant roster turnover last season. Players and coaches are now familiar with the program's identity. Alabama's key offseason move is the return of Ryan Grubb as offensive coordinator. Grubb brings NFL experience from his 2024 season with the Seattle Seahawks, where he led the eighth-best passing attack. Last season (9-3) marked only the second time DeBoer did not achieve 10 or more wins in a full season, and his career record is impressive at 113-16. This team is on a mission.


Pro Football Focus named Alabama's offensive line the top returning unit for 2025, bolstered by Texas A&M transfer Kam Dewberry at left guard after Tyler Booker's NFL departure. Kadyn Proctor, Parker Brailsford, and Jaeden Roberts all return. I prefer teams with a strong offensive line when playing over 9.5 wins. Alabama's 2025 recruiting class, ranked in the top 5 nationally, features five-star quarterback Keelon Russell and defensive backs Dijon Lee Jr. and Chuck McDonald, who are expected to make an early impact.


Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack enters his second season with more talent and depth. Tim Keenan III and James Smith will anchor the defensive line, while linebacker Deontae Lawson leads an experienced group after recovering from injury. LT Overton's development and Florida transfer Kelby Collins should improve the pass rush. Alabama's secondary is among the nation's best (shocker), with returning starters Domani Jackson, Zabien Brown, Keon Sabb, and Bray Hubbard. They ranked second in the SEC in opposing quarterback rating, intercepted 17 passes, and allowed just 6 yards per attempt. This unit, along with the entire defense, ranks among the best in college football to begin the season.


Breaking down Alabama's schedule game-by-game reveals multiple pathways to exceeding 9.5 wins.


Likely Wins: ULM, Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, Eastern Illinois, plus 3 of: Florida State, Missouri, Oklahoma, Auburn.


Competitive Games: Tennessee (home), LSU (home), South Carolina (road), Georgia (road)


Distributing the competitive games evenly suggests Alabama could achieve 9 to 10 wins. Winning three out of four games could elevate their total to double digits. Given their talent advantages and home-field benefits in several key matchups, surpassing 10 wins appears attainable. If you couldn't tell, I absolutely love this team in 2025. Everything is in place for the Crimson Tide to shine.


Jeff’s Best Bet: Alabama OVER 9.5 wins (-110)


Jeff’s Preferred Bet: Alabama to win National Championship (+1100)


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