Former Alabama Star Gives Kalen DeBoer ‘B-‘ Grade For 2024
As college football heats up in preparation for the 2024 season, coaches are under constant scrutiny, and many analysts and former players provide their assessments. Recently, a former Alabama football star, who has built a reputation for insightful commentary, offered his thoughts on Washington Huskies head coach Kalen DeBoer’s prospects for the upcoming season. While DeBoer has had success at Washington, the former Alabama player gave him a “B-” grade for 2024, sparking conversation about DeBoer’s ability to take the Huskies to the next level.
Kalen DeBoer, who took over as Washington’s head coach in 2022, has made notable strides in rebuilding the Huskies’ program. His first season was a promising one, as Washington finished with a solid 11-2 record and reached a bowl game. DeBoer’s offensive-minded approach and his leadership style have rejuvenated the team, especially in the offensive ranks. His background as an offensive coordinator at places like Fresno State and Indiana has translated into an explosive attack in Washington, highlighted by quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s exceptional play.
Despite these successes, the former Alabama player who graded DeBoer felt that the coach still has areas to improve, particularly in terms of his overall program development and consistency against top-tier competition. While DeBoer has shown he can win at the Pac-12 level, the former star pointed to Washington’s lack of success against elite teams, particularly in big games. The Huskies’ loss to the Oregon Ducks in the 2023 Pac-12 Championship Game was seen as a missed opportunity to cement their place among the nation’s elite programs.
The “B-” grade reflects a sense of cautious optimism. It’s clear that DeBoer has the talent and coaching acumen to guide Washington to success, but there are questions surrounding his ability to compete consistently with college football’s powerhouses in the postseason. Additionally, while Washington’s offense has been formidable, the former Alabama player believes the Huskies still have work to do in terms of overall balance and defense, which could be the key to taking the program to the next level.
For DeBoer, the 2024 season is an important one. While Washington has shown flashes of brilliance, the pressure will be on to continue improving, especially after losing some key players to the NFL. Penix Jr., who has been a standout quarterback for the Huskies, will need to remain at the top of his game, and the defense will have to take strides in order to compete against powerhouse programs in the playoff picture. With the competition for top-tier recruits intensifying and the evolving landscape of college football, DeBoer’s ability to recruit and develop talent will be paramount.
The “B-” grade, while not a harsh criticism, acknowledges that there is still work to be done for DeBoer and the Washington program. He has shown promise and the ability to lead, but the coming season will be a true test of his coaching ability and his team’s potential. Washington fans are hopeful that DeBoer can elevate the program to new heights, but only time will tell if the former Alabama player’s grade will hold true or if DeBoer can prove that he’s ready for the next step in his coaching career.
