Former head coach turned broadcaster Nick Saban likes the mood surrounding the Alabama Crimson Tide before the 2026 season. The legendary coach worked 17 years as head coach of the Crimson Tide and delivered six national titles.
Unlike previous seasons, expectations for Alabama to do well have slowed down under head coach Kalen DeBoer. While Texas and Georgia make the most noise, it might actually work in favor of Alabama to play freely, per Saban.
“The one thing about Alabama this year is they’re flying under the radar a bit, a little bit unknown,” Saban said Wednesday on SEC Now during SEC Media Days. “I actually kind of liked that as a coach because when we were picked high, I always worried about how this is going to affect our offseason, our preparation, the culture you’re trying to develop as a team. Maybe Coach DeBoer really likes the fact that they’re flying under the radar a little.”
In his first two seasons, DeBoer has gone 20-8, including making the College Football Playoff last season. However, the team’s national championship dreams ended with a lopsided loss to eventual national champion Indiana.
Nick Saban on Alabama’s QB Situation
Kalen DeBoer has not announced his starting quarterback during the SEC Media Days, saying he will not do so until a few days into fall camp.
The competition is largely between senior Austin Mack and sophomore Keelon Russell. During his appearance on SEC Now in Tampa on Wednesday morning, Saban said the quarterback who aligns well with the rest of the team should be considered.
“Quarterback’s the most difficult position to play based on how the people around you play, so that may have something to do with who they determine as the starter,” Saban said. “What’s the best fit with the rest of the players on the team? I think both guys are capable.”
“Keelon Russell. I’ve watched this guy for two springs. He didn’t play much in the fall. I watched him in two springs. This guy is a talented guy who is a playmaker who can make plays, and whether he’s ready to play now or not, obviously the coaches have to determine that. He is going to be an outstanding player in the future.”
While Saban didn’t make any standalone choice between the two, he believes that since both are good players, either one of them is well suited to take the job.
Alabama’s season opener is on Sept. 5, and it remains to be seen who DeBoer trusts enough with the ball. Mack has been under DeBoer for four years, dating back to his time with Washington, making him the expected candidate for the starting job.
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