Coach DeBoer Praises Alabama Football Team's Productive Preseason Scrimmage
ICARO Media Group
Alabama football coach Kalen DeBoer spoke with reporters following the team's second and final preseason scrimmage on Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium. With just two weeks remaining before their season opener against Western Kentucky, DeBoer provided insight into the team's performance and shared his thoughts on various players.
Describing the scrimmage as "another really productive" one, DeBoer commended the Alabama defense for its strong performance against the run early in the game. He also highlighted the defense's ability to create turnovers, indicating a promising start to the preseason.
On the offensive front, DeBoer praised the receiving corps for their "extremely competitive" catches during the scrimmage. He emphasized the physicality of the practice, stating that it was the most intense one since he took over as head coach in January.
Although a couple of players, including Jam Miller who was previously injured, were kept out of the scrimmage, DeBoer expressed confidence in their potential availability for the season opener. He specifically mentioned guard Jaeden Roberts, affirming that he would be able to participate in Week 1.
DeBoer also commended the cornerbacks for their exceptional performance, noting that they consistently defended against the receivers throughout the scrimmage. He expressed satisfaction with their overall performance and acknowledged the strength of the group.
The right tackle position remains a topic of uncertainty for the Alabama coaching staff. DeBoer admitted that the battle for the starting role would likely continue until actual games provided more opportunity for evaluation.
Addressing the topic of kick and punt returners, DeBoer mentioned several players who have shown potential in those roles. Germie Bernard was the first name mentioned, with DeBoer expressing trust in his decision-making abilities. DeBoer also highlighted the abilities of Jaylen Mbakwe, Ryan Williams, and Kendrick Law in potentially fulfilling those crucial special teams positions.
When discussing the team's punter, DeBoer offered high praise for James Burnip, stating that he has had an exceptional camp and performed phenomenally throughout the preseason.
Finally, DeBoer acknowledged the smooth transition of Zabien Brown, crediting his experience playing high-level high school football for his seamless integration into the Alabama program.
With the season opener rapidly approaching, these insights provided by Coach DeBoer give Alabama fans reasons to be optimistic about the upcoming campaign. As the team looks to build upon its success in the previous season, the players' performance and the coaching staff's evaluations from the preseason scrimmage will play a crucial role in shaping Alabama's quest for another College Football Playoff appearance.