In Alabama’s Week 12 matchup against Mercer, head coach Kalen DeBoer addressed a surprising and somewhat embarrassing milestone: the Crimson Tide, despite being one of college football’s most dominant programs, faced an FCS opponent while already carrying two losses this season. DeBoer emphasized the importance of not underestimating Mercer, a 9-1 team ranked No. 7 in the FCS. He noted that complacency, especially after Alabama’s massive win over LSU, could lead to setbacks that might jeopardize their slim chances of making the College Football Playoff (CFP)【6】【7】.
Despite the disparity in program stature, DeBoer insisted that his players treat every game with equal respect, warning against taking Mercer lightly. He also highlighted Mercer’s strong performance this season and reminded his team that Alabama cannot afford another slip-up with tough games against Oklahoma and Auburn ahead. DeBoer’s comments were likely aimed at ensuring his team maintains focus to avoid a costly letdown【6】【7】.
The Crimson Tide eventually secured a commanding blowout victory over Mercer, showcasing their superior talent but also reflecting DeBoer’s efforts to keep the team grounded. However, Alabama’s struggles earlier in the season have put them in a precarious position, making every game critical for maintaining CFP hopes【7】.
Alabama head football coach Kalen DeBoer was excited for his Crimson Tide defense’s first touchdown this season during a 52-7 blowout of Mercer at Bryant-Denny Stadium. During the postgame press conference, he was animated discussing Zabien Brown’s 68-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
“Those are exciting. The guys talk about it, and when they come up short and they think they had a chance to score, they always hear about, ‘You should have kept along this sideline or cut back.’ And for us to get him in the end zone with that long return, it was something that’s exciting for the whole team because they have gotten the takeaways. We just hadn’t ended up with one in the end zone like that. I love the mindset. Again, going back to what the defense is doing. They’re attacking. Three-and-out is what they’re shooting for. But right now, the position they’re putting our offense in, getting points on the board now, too, it’s really good,” DeBoer said on November 16 (h/t On3).
DeBoer had every right to be excited. Nick Saban would’ve pointed out how this was the first non-offensive touchdown all season, though, and probably would’ve been disappointed. Different strokes for different folks.
The “Bama Standard” has changed. Scoring the first non-offensive touchdown of the season in Week 12 against Mercer is a sign of that.
