Kalen DeBoer responds to criticism of motivation style early in Alabama tenure

When Greg Byrne tabbed Kalen DeBoer as Nick Saban’s replacement, some expressed concern about how he would adapt to the SEC. Washington was DeBoer’s first power conference head coaching job, though he had a successful run at NAIA Sioux Falls from 2005-09.

Alabama went 8-5 under his watch in 2024, and expectations were high in 2025. Following a season-opening loss to Florida State, criticism again mounted. But the Crimson Tide since rattled off three straight wins, including a marquee victory over Georgia last week on the road.

During that stretch, a caller on DeBoer’s radio show said he’s seen more energy from the head coach on the sidelines and asked about his philosophy regarding motivation and leadership. DeBoer said he doesn’t think any two teams are the same, which means you can’t coach them the same way.

“I think as much as anything, just trying to fill in the gap of what I think our team needs,” DeBoer said Wednesday on Hey Coach and The Kalen DeBoer Show. “Every team is different. It really is. Every team has a different personality to it.

“I’ve done this many years. You always start over and you always think, ‘Oh, the leaders take [this] and this and that,’ and I think every team is different. Just want to make sure whatever the gaps are, I can fill in. And that’s filling in the coaching staff gaps. That’s what you’ve got to recognize as a leader.”

Saban, of course, became well-known for his hard-nosed style of leadership and stoic demeanor at the podium during press conferences. DeBoer has a different approach. He’s typically more quiet while offering positive messages. Of course, he also is seen patting players on the helmets or on the rears during games, providing words of encouragement along the way.

However, accountability is still important, and DeBoer said that’s part of the balance when it comes to leadership. He also sees a strong response from the players, which adds to the enjoyment of the journey.

“However we’ve got to do it – I love seeing these guys succeed and cheering them on, as much as it is also about leadership and holding them accountable to all those things leaders do,” DeBoer said. “I’m loving the journey. I love the direction we’re going in. It’s fun coaching these guys because they pour everything into it and they do everything that I ask of them. Looking forward to the great challenge this week, and then we’ll worry about the great challenges that lie ahead after this weekend.”