Media Backlash Intensifies as Alabama Stumbles in Season Opener
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — September 1, 2025
The Alabama Crimson Tide’s season opener against Florida State has sparked a wave of criticism from national media outlets, with head coach Kalen DeBoer squarely in the crosshairs after a 31–17 defeat that left fans and analysts stunned.
Despite entering the season ranked No. 8 nationally, Alabama looked anything but elite in their Friday night clash, struggling on both sides of the ball and failing to match Florida State’s physicality and execution.
Analysts Sound the Alarm
ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky didn’t mince words in his postgame analysis, questioning whether DeBoer can “survive September” given the team’s lack of discipline and energy. “This wasn’t just a bad game,” Orlovsky said. “It was a breakdown in effort and fundamentals. That’s on the coaching.”
Meanwhile, CBS Sports delivered a scathing assessment, calling the Tide’s performance “lackluster, soft, embarrassing, pathetic.” The outlet emphasized the gap between Alabama’s preseason expectations and its on-field reality, suggesting the team looked unprepared and uninspired.
A Rocky Road Ahead
The loss has intensified scrutiny on DeBoer, who took over the storied program following Nick Saban’s retirement. With upcoming matchups against Louisiana Monroe, Wisconsin, and Georgia, the pressure to rebound is mounting fast.
Alabama fans are hoping the team can regroup and rediscover its identity before the season spirals further. But for now, the media backlash is loud—and growing louder.
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