Paul Finebaum Shares Optimistic Outlook For Top College Football Head Coach

After completing an undefeated regular season and competing in the national championship game, Kalen DeBoer decided to depart from Washington and become the next head coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

DeBoer has a 37-9 record in his four FBS seasons, including a 25-3 record in the last two seasons at Washington. However, he faces the challenge of replacing legendary coach Nick Saban.

Still, Paul Finebaum is optimistic about what DeBoer will accomplish at Alabama in his first year.

"I'm pretty optimistic about DeBoer," Finebaum said. "I think most people have them for about nine or 10 wins ... the toughest games are Wisconsin on the road, that's an early season game, Georgia at home, there's also a game at Tennessee, Missouri at home, game at LSU and at Oklahoma."

Kalen DeBoer speaks during an Alabama spring practice on 2024. Gary Cosby Jr./Tuscaloosa News/USA Today Network

According to ESPN's Football Power Index, the Crimson Tide is ranked as the No. 5 team in the country. The FPI predicts the Crimson Tide will have a nine-win season in Tuscaloosa. Additionally, it suggests there is a 57.2% chance of making the College Football Playoff, a 15.3% chance of making the national championship game, and an 8.5% chance of winning the national championship — all of which rank top seven in the country.

If DeBoer achieves any of that, it could make for a significant first year at Alabama and generate momentum for the Crimson Tide's future.