Kalen DeBoer Reflects on Alabama Football's First Preseason Scrimmage

Alabama football kicked off its first preseason scrimmage on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the Crimson Tide’s preparations for the upcoming season. The practice, held behind closed doors at Bryant-Denny Stadium, was a crucial opportunity for the team under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, who took the helm after Nick Saban's retirement in January.

The Crimson Tide began their preseason camp on July 31, with DeBoer guiding the team through rigorous preparations for his inaugural season. The regular season opener is set for August 31, when Alabama will host Western Kentucky in Tuscaloosa.

On Sunday, the team will return to the field for a special practice session, which also serves as the Crimson Tide’s Fan Day at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This event, open to the public, will offer Yea Alabama members the chance to meet the players and get autographs after practice.

Following the scrimmage, DeBoer addressed the media, sharing insights and observations from the day. Here are the key takeaways from his press conference:

• Scrimmage Environment: DeBoer highlighted the importance of the scrimmage for acclimating to the atmosphere of Bryant-Denny Stadium. The team ran approximately 102 plays, giving players a solid run-through in a game-like setting.

• Discipline and Communication: He noted a significant improvement in avoiding penalties during the scrimmage. The team also focused on refining coach-to-player communication and utilizing sideline tablets effectively.

• Injury Updates: DeBoer mentioned that the scrimmage involved typical fall camp bumps and bruises, with no major injury concerns.

• Quarterback Performance: When asked about the quarterbacks, DeBoer expressed satisfaction with their playmaking abilities, noting they’ve improved in managing pressure. However, he would like to see them throw the ball away more to avoid unnecessary risks.

• Running Back Impact: The running backs impressed, with several explosive plays, particularly from Jam Miller in the red zone. DeBoer praised the versatility of the group, highlighting their dual-threat capabilities in the passing game. Miller and Justice Hayes received first-team reps.

• Injury Reporting: On the topic of injury transparency, DeBoer acknowledged the importance and indicated that Alabama would comply with any guidelines provided.

• Offensive Discipline: DeBoer observed fewer mental mistakes and penalties on the offensive side during the scrimmage, a positive sign of progress.

• Concerns and Areas of Focus: Staying healthy remains DeBoer’s primary concern, though he feels optimistic about the team’s overall performance. He noted that future scrimmages would likely be shorter.

• Defensive Line and Offensive Line Dynamics: DeBoer pointed out moments where the defensive line excelled, particularly in passing situations. He also sees the offensive line making strides towards consistency, praising the ongoing development of a solid pass rush.

• Receiver Performance: When asked about the receivers, DeBoer emphasized the distribution of the ball, with nearly every receiver getting involved and making catches.

• Tackling and Defense: The scrimmage provided a good opportunity to evaluate live tackling, with DeBoer pleased with the team’s pursuit of the ball and their effectiveness in bringing down ball carriers.