Nick Saban send a strong message to Kalen DeBoer Ahead of Mercer Matchup…
As Alabama prepares for their non-conference showdown against Mercer, offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer is keeping it real about the team’s mindset and approach. While many might expect a simple win for the Crimson Tide, DeBoer isn’t taking anything for granted. Instead, he’s stressing the importance of staying focused, executing well, and maintaining a professional approach—especially in games against opponents that, on paper, appear to be overmatched.
“Look, we’re Alabama, and we’re expected to win every game we play,” DeBoer said in his press conference ahead of the Mercer game. “But what’s important is how we handle those expectations. We can’t afford to just show up and think we’re going to win. We’ve got to execute at a high level, respect our opponent, and stay sharp. It’s about getting better every week, no matter who you’re playing.”
DeBoer, who is in his first year as Alabama’s offensive coordinator, has quickly established himself as a coach who values consistency and discipline. His approach is rooted in ensuring that players remain grounded, even when facing opponents that may not pose the same level of challenge as SEC powerhouses. Despite Mercer being an FCS school, DeBoer’s focus on preparation doesn’t waver. He’s well aware that every game is an opportunity to build momentum and fine-tune aspects of Alabama’s offense that will be crucial in the high-stakes SEC matchups that lie ahead.
“I’ve been around this game long enough to know that anything can happen if you’re not ready. Mercer is a team that has a good system, and we’ve got to respect that. They’re going to come out and give their best shot,” DeBoer added. “If we take anything for granted, we’ll be in for a rude awakening.”
The Alabama offense, which has seen significant changes under DeBoer’s guidance, is still finding its rhythm early in the season. With a dynamic quarterback in Jalen Milroe and a deep running back room, DeBoer is emphasizing balance and execution. His philosophy centers on spreading the ball around, utilizing play-action, and creating mismatches, all while maintaining the tempo and physicality that has defined Alabama football for years.
Against Mercer, DeBoer is aiming for continued growth, particularly in areas like offensive line cohesion, timing in the passing game, and improving consistency in the red zone. “We’ve got a lot of talent, but talent doesn’t mean anything if we don’t do the little things right,” he said. “It’s about discipline, precision, and making sure every player knows their role and does their job to the best of their ability.”
The matchup with Mercer offers Alabama an opportunity to fine-tune their game plan before diving into the heart of the SEC schedule. While the Bears might not have the talent or depth of Alabama’s regular conference opponents, DeBoer sees this as a chance to implement key offensive concepts and sharpen the skills that will be needed when the competition ramps up.
“I want us to focus on improving every single week,” DeBoer said. “We don’t want to take any steps backward, no matter who we’re playing. The goal is to be playing our best football when we get to the bigger games, and that starts with treating every game with the same level of importance.”
For DeBoer, his first season at Alabama is as much about building a culture as it is about wins and losses. His no-nonsense approach to the Mercer game reflects his commitment to instilling discipline, attention to detail, and a mentality of constant improvement. As the Crimson Tide head into this non-conference clash, they know the real tests are still to come, but DeBoer’s philosophy is clear: stay focused, stay sharp, and never underestimate the power of preparation.
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