Greg McElory, Sean McDonough call out Alabama fans who wanted Kalen DeBoer fired after win over Tennessee

For the fourth straight week, Alabama finds itself a winner vs. a ranked opponent. Tennessee was on the other end on Saturday, lighting up cigars inside Bryant-Denny Stadium. It’s the first time Kalen DeBoer has won in the rivalry too, sending a big statement.

Not too long ago, people in Tuscaloosa were not too happy with DeBoer. Losing to Florida State is the season opener sent shockwaves through the program, wondering if DeBoer would keep his job. Well, after the Tennessee win, McDonough called out anyone who still subscribes to that.

“There are many in this part of the world that doesn’t want him as their head coach,” McDonough said. “Hopefully, that’s died down.”

Greg McElroy then provided his thoughts, praising DeBoer for recent victories. And given his relationship with Alabama and still being located in Birmingham, he provides a great idea on what the pulse is.

“I think that is a very silent minority at this point,” McElroy said. “Because he’s doing a fantastic job. He’s really allowed this team to take on a different edge than what we saw.”

DeBoer is in his second season at Alabama after coming over from Washington. His first did not end quite well, ending any chance of making the College Football Playoff by losing to Oklahoma. Dropping the bowl game to Michigan certainly did not help. Losing to Florida State only made matters worse, cranking up the pressure to an all-time max.

Since then, almost everything has gone well for DeBoer. Beating Georgia really got the party started before earning a rivalry win over Tennessee. Of course, the success needs to continue in the coming weeks as the schedule remains difficult for the Tide.

Kalen DeBoer looking to protect magic of black hoodie amid Tennessee celebrations

Part of the fun in DeBoer winning is people loving the black hoodie he wears. Leading into the Mizzou game, even Eli Drinkwitz wanted to know about the outfit. After wearing a polo vs. Florida State, there has been no looking back.

But making sure the hoodie came out clean from Tennessee celebrations was a must for DeBoer. He sent out a warning to everyone smoking a cigar on Saturday night — make sure nothing happens to what has become a rallying cry for fans, players, and even coaches.

“We’re gonna ride the momentum and I told the guys to not get any [cigar] ashes on it,” DeBoer said via Hunter De Siver on X.