Two Alabama podcasters believe fans of other college football programs were waiting for the moment when the Crimson Tide were no longer the most dominant program in the nation. While discussing the recent season on their popular Locked On Bama YouTube channel, Luke Robinson and Jimmy Stein outlined the rise in anti-Alabama rhetoric this year—something they did not appreciate.
The Crimson Tide did not have a bad season by average college football standards. However, over the past decade, Alabama has built a dynasty under head coach Nick Saban. Before the start of this campaign, Saban stepped away from the program, and in its first season without him, the team finished with a 9-3 regular-season record.
Podcast Hosts Analyze Disrespect Toward Alabama
Both Robinson and Stein acknowledged that they expected some criticism from rival fan bases, particularly Auburn supporters. However, they were surprised by how much enjoyment other non-rival programs took in Alabama’s struggles.
“I don’t know what we did to deserve such a lack of respect. I mean, I guess people were just itching to start disrespecting us because we have forced people to respect us for so long,” Robinson said. “I mean, I know a lot of Auburn friends, but I mean, that’s just tradition. They’re like, ‘I can’t wait till y’all fall off.'”
Can Alabama Rebound Next Season?
By the standards set under Saban and the program’s sustained success, there is no doubt this season was a disappointment—even if some drop-off was expected. Looking ahead, the Crimson Tide will need to remain active in the transfer portal and recruiting, given that several top players are NFL draft-eligible.
MORE: Way-Too-Early Top 25 Power Rankings for 2025
In College Football Network’s recent 3-round NFL Mock Draft, the Crimson Tide had six players selected within the first three rounds: linebacker Jihaad Campbell, interior offensive lineman Tyler Booker, quarterback Jalen Milroe, edge rusher LT Overton, linebacker Deontae Lawson, and cornerback Domani Jackson.
With key departures, replenishing the roster will be crucial for Alabama to return to championship contention in 2025.
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