Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer addressed reporters Monday ahead of the Crimson Tide’s upcoming road matchup against South Carolina. The game is set for Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
Here’s a breakdown of what DeBoer said about facing the Gamecocks.
Opening Statement
“Just wrapping up Tennessee — a lot of what I felt after the game — it was another resilient effort by our guys,” DeBoer said. “They stuck together and played really good team football. It’s never perfect when you’re playing a good team like Tennessee, but our guys made the right plays at the right times, especially in the red zone.”
DeBoer praised Alabama’s offensive efficiency, noting, “We went 4-for-4 on touchdowns in the red zone, and defensively we held them to two out of five. Those were critical moments where our players stepped up.”
Looking ahead to the Gamecocks, DeBoer acknowledged the challenge of going on the road in the SEC. “We just have to sustain our focus and edge for another week. We’re heading into a great environment at South Carolina to face a team that’s really stout defensively with a lot of dynamic playmakers. Offensively, they’ve got explosive players who can make big plays. They’ve come up short in a few games, but it’s going to be a battle that’ll take four quarters of great effort.”
On Defending Quarterback LaNorris Sellers
When asked about South Carolina’s dual-threat quarterback LaNorris Sellers, DeBoer had high praise for his physicality and athleticism.
“Watched a cut-up this morning with the defensive staff, and it’s just one play after another,” DeBoer said. “We didn’t even need to see all of it — the point was clear. We’ve got to rally to him. We’ve faced tough running backs before, but this guy touches the ball every single play. It’s not enough to reach him; you have to get him down, and it’s going to take multiple guys.”
DeBoer continued: “He’s got the speed, the size, and he’s super strong — a relentless player who fights for every yard.”
On Carrying Energy Into a Road Game
DeBoer acknowledged that Alabama expects a charged atmosphere at Williams-Brice Stadium.
“I think it’s their homecoming, too,” he noted. “You try to find every possible challenge to present to your guys, because we know what we’re up against. Our players understand we’re going to get everyone’s best shot.”
On Road Game Challenges and Execution
When asked about Alabama’s past struggles on the road against unranked teams, DeBoer emphasized the importance of execution in critical moments.
“There have been different reasons,” he explained. “Sometimes neither side of the ball could overcome momentum swings. Starting fast — getting early stops or points — is key. But it’s about execution in the loudest, toughest moments: converting a third down early or finishing a drive before halftime.”
DeBoer said the Tide must “be great in critical moments,” adding that those moments don’t always come in the fourth quarter.
“A critical moment could be at the end of the second quarter — getting a stop, or scoring before the half,” he said. “When our fight is there as a team, it builds resiliency, belief, and consistency. That’s the mental, physical, and emotional toughness we’re counting on to get the job done.”
In short: DeBoer respects South Carolina’s talent, particularly at quarterback, and expects a gritty four-quarter battle in Columbia. The Tide’s focus this week? Staying sharp and executing when it matters most.
