TUSCALOOSA, Alabama – Kalen DeBoer described the entire day as “special,” and as Alabama completed its first spring practice with DeBoer as coach in its traditional A-Day Game, his players expressed excitement about what comes next.
Quarterback Jalen Milroe and offensive guard Tyler Booker both stated that DeBoer and the new coaching staff’s positivity, confidence, and energy since their arrival have been exactly what the program needs, with Nick Saban retiring after a famous coaching career.
Booker hasn’t seen his new coach flinch since his first meeting with the club.
“That’s why he was the right guy for the job,” Booker remarked. “I believe whoever accepted this position had to have heart because they knew they were succeeding after Coach Saban. So, just being able to take on this work and be proud of it earned him my respect. Anyone who accepted this position would have my respect.
“He just continues to earn it and continues to prove why he was the guy for this job.”
A crowd of 72,358 saw DeBoer’s debut on Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium for an offensive-versus-defense scrimmage in which the offense built a 31-0 lead and then held on for a 34-28 victory using a specially created scoring system. Saban, who watched the game from a suite with his family, joked during the A-Day Walk of Fame ceremony before the game, “I’m one of you.” I’m one of the fans now.”
DeBoer had Saban speak to the players for the first time this spring, and while DeBoer has been intensely focused on his team, he admitted that it “really hit him” Saturday watching the supporters’ fervor and immersing himself in all Alabama football.
