After a thrilling win over No. 7 seed Texas A&M on Dec. 20, the Hurricanes were operating a high-level across the board against the Buckeyes. Meanwhile, Ohio State's offense looked out of rhythm in its first live action since the Big Ten Championship Game on Dec. 6.

DeBoer squeezed what he could out of this season and got Alabama a College Football Playoff win after it sputtered at times in the second half of the season. Despite the step forward, several areas left much to be desired heading into the 2026 season.

Alabama football turned to backup QB Austin Mack in a 38-3 blowout loss to Indiana in the Rose Bowl. Here's what coach Kalen DeBoer said about it.

SportsLine's model reveals its Indiana vs. Alabama best bets for their College Football Playoff matchup in the Rose Bowl

The mailbag is here with sharpened blade affixed for the New Year. Alabama football circa 2025, RIP, but sometimes it’s best to leave bleeding things behind and start anew. Does anyone have a cell phone number for DeMeco Ryans? If he’s not going to coach the Tide, can he at least overnight some cash.

Disappointment is the lingering feeling for Alabama following the Rose Bowl loss, but the team took steps forward in Year 2 under DeBoer with an SEC title game appearance, CFP appearance and playoff win at Oklahoma. DeBoer has acknowledged the Alabama standard since his arrival in Tuscaloosa and knows that the standard involves championships.