Alabama enters the 2026 season ranked sixth in the SEC by CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford, marking a drop from the conference’s top tier. The ranking reflects concerns about whether head coach Kalen DeBoer can maintain the program’s championship standard.
“Opponents now believe they can go toe-to-toe with the Crimson Tide offensively, and that matters,” Crawford wrote. He believes the team “doesn’t cast the same intimidating shadow it did under Saban.”
The quarterback position remains unsettled. Both Keelon Russell and Austin Mack are competing for the starting role heading into fall camp.
Crawford identified the passing game as a primary concern. He also questioned whether the running game can establish the physicality needed to compete in the SEC.
“Quarterback uncertainty could become a weekly storyline if Alabama fails to establish consistency early with either Austin Mack or Keelon Russell. DeBoer’s system works best with balance and efficiency, but the SEC punishes finesse teams.”
The pressure on DeBoer extends beyond typical coaching expectations. Alabama’s fanbase has grown accustomed to competing for national championships annually.
“Nine or 10 wins get celebrated almost everywhere else. In Tuscaloosa, that sparks questions about whether the dynasty can return. That’s the burden DeBoer inherited. And if Alabama slips defensively or fails to develop a physical rushing attack, regression becomes less of a hot take and more of an expectation.”
Schedule provides opportunity for redemption
Alabama’s 2026 schedule offers DeBoer a path to success. Only Georgia and Texas A&M appear likely to challenge the Crimson Tide significantly.
Both teams made last year’s College Football Playoff. They present the strongest tests on Alabama’s schedule, particularly on defense.
The Third Saturday in October against Tennessee could prove troublesome. The Iron Bowl presents another potential stumbling block, with the team from the Plains looking to build momentum under their current coaching staff.
A nine or 10-win season could secure Alabama a CFP berth. That would likely quiet criticism of DeBoer for another year.
However, the schedule’s favorable nature creates additional pressure. If Alabama struggles against weaker competition, athletic director Greg Byrne may face difficult decisions about the program’s direction.
The lack of quality opponents before the CFP could hurt Alabama’s preparation. Teams like Notre Dame, Texas, Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana project to enter the playoff battle-tested.
Alabama may reach the CFP without facing adequate competition to prepare for the tournament’s intensity.
