Kalen DeBoer isn’t wasting any time making big moves in Tuscaloosa. He knows the Alabama job comes with sky-high expectations, and with Nick Saban’s legacy looming over his shoulder, there’s no room for missteps. DeBoer is well aware that every decision he makes will be scrutinized, dissected, and debated by one of the most passionate fanbases in college football. And yet, amidst the chaos of transfers, NIL battles, and the aftermath of a disappointing season, DeBoer has drawn his line in the sand. He’s making his mark on Alabama football, and it starts with his coaching staff.
The Crimson Tide are bringing back Ryan Grubb, a familiar face with a proven track record. Grubb, known for his offensive brilliance, is expected to bring his magic touch back to the Tide. But what’s more surprising? DeBoer isn’t parting ways with Nick Sheridan, the man who called plays last season. It’s a move that has left some scratching their heads—why shake things up without a full reset? The answer lies in DeBoer’s deep-rooted belief in loyalty, chemistry, and the power of a well-oiled machine.
Kalen DeBoer’s Unshakable Loyalty: Keeping Sheridan in the Fold
Alabama’s 2024 season ended on a sour note, with a crushing 19-13 loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl. But let’s be honest—offensive struggles weren’t just a postseason problem. What started as a high-powered scoring machine early in the season quickly lost steam. In their first five games, the Crimson Tide offense averaged a blistering 44.6 points per game, routinely lighting up scoreboards. Then, the wheels fell off. Against Tennessee, Alabama managed just 314 yards on 4.0 yards per play. Things got worse against Oklahoma (234 yards, 4.1 YPP) and Michigan (260 yards, 4.2 YPP). The explosive offense fans had come to expect disappeared when it mattered most.
With results like that, most coaches would hit the “RESET” button. But DeBoer isn’t just any coach. Instead of cleaning house, he’s opting for a strategic retooling. According to ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg, “Nick Sheridan, who served as Alabama’s primary offensive coordinator in 2024, and co-OC JaMarcus Shephard will remain with the Tide staff.” While some expected DeBoer to completely overhaul his staff, he’s sticking with key figures who share his philosophy.
Sheridan isn’t just being kept around as a courtesy. His numbers, while not dazzling, were still respectable. Under his guidance, Alabama’s offense averaged 422.8 yards per game, ranking 7th nationally. The Tide’s run game was 4th best in the SEC, racking up 182.7 rushing yards per game. And let’s not forget Alabama still managed 35.5 points per game, the 3rd-best mark in the conference and 22nd in the country.
Now, with Grubb returning to Tuscaloosa, Sheridan’s role remains uncertain. But DeBoer has made it clear—Sheridan is part of the equation, not a castoff.
Nick Sheridan, who served as Alabama's primary offensive coordinator in 2024, and co-OC JaMarcus Shephard will remain with the Tide staff, according to sources. Both worked with Grubb at Washington in 2022 and 2023. https://t.co/Q6eIznB7g0
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) February 3, 2025
The Grubb-DeBoer Duo: Reunited and Ready to Revive Alabama’s Offense
For the fourth straight season, Alabama is rolling into a new year with a different offensive coordinator. In 2025, that title belongs to Ryan Grubb. It’s a game-changing hire, one that could elevate Alabama back to the offensive juggernaut status they once enjoyed.
Grubb isn’t just another coach—he’s DeBoer’s right-hand man, his offensive soulmate. Their history dates back years, spanning multiple programs, and their partnership has consistently produced results.
When they were together at Washington, their offense was among the best in the country. In **2023, the Huskies finished with the 12th-ranked offense, averaging 462.1 yards per game. The year before? Second in the nation. The duo turned Michael Penix Jr. into a Heisman contender and a future NFL quarterback.
Grubb’s departure to the Seattle Seahawks after a brief stint with Alabama last offseason was a stunning twist. Many thought he was locked in as DeBoer’s OC in Tuscaloosa, but instead, he bolted for the NFL, leaving Alabama scrambling. That led to Sheridan’s promotion—and, ultimately, an offense that ranked 42nd in total yards per game (410.2).
Meanwhile, Grubb had a solid but unspectacular year in the NFL. Under his direction, the Seahawks’ offense ranked 14th in total yards per game (332.2). Respectable? Sure. But something was missing—his connection with DeBoer.
Now, the reunion is official. And Alabama fans have every reason to be excited.
What’s Next for Alabama? A New Era Begins
With Grubb calling the shots and Sheridan still in the fold, Alabama’s offense is poised for a transformation. The question now is how quickly they can regain their dominance. The talent is there, the system is proven, and the chemistry between DeBoer and Grubb is undeniable.
The goal is simple: return to the national championship hunt.
With Michael Penix Jr. and Jake Haener as proof of their quarterback development skills, DeBoer and Grubb now turn their attention to Alabama’s next signal-caller. Whether it’s Julian Sayin or Ty Simpson, the Tide need an elite QB to execute their vision.
For Crimson Tide fans, the message is clear: change is here, and it’s coming fast. DeBoer isn’t just replacing Nick Saban—he’s rewriting the script. And if history tells us anything, Alabama’s offense is about to be electrifying once again. Buckle up.
