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Ryan Williams runs toward the end zone after making a catch for Alabama against Western Kentucky.
College Football

3 Takeaways from Alabama’s dominant first win of Kalen DeBoer era

Adam Spencer

By Adam Spencer

Published:

Alabama enters a new era in 2024, and Saturday officially kicked off Kalen DeBoer’s tenure as the Crimson Tide head coach.

It was all smooth sailing in the first game for DeBoer, as the Crimson Tide made quick work of an overmatched Western Kentucky squad.

When all was said and done, Alabama had earned an impressive 63-0 victory.

Here are our 3 quick takeaways from Saturday night’s game at Bryant-Denny Stadium:

1. The offense is a problem

For those wondering if Alabama would take a step back after losing Nick Saban, the answer through 1 week is … no. Yes, it’ll be nearly impossible to replace the GOAT, but the offensive effort in Week 1 against Western Kentucky was elite.

Kalen DeBoer and his staff had the Tide ready to go. Jalen Milroe was incredible, completing 7 passes for a whopping 200 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also ran for 79 yards and 2 scores.

In the first half, 40% of Alabama’s offensive plays could be classified as “explosive.” The starters got to leave the game early after being so dominant.

Yes, it’s important to note that this was done against Western Kentucky and not an SEC opponent, but it was still an eye-popping debut for Kalen DeBoer and company.

2. Ryan Williams is as-advertised

The Crimson Tide needed to reboot at the receiver position after losing Jermaine Burton to the NFL and Isaiah Bond to Texas. Well, it appears they have a rising superstar in 5-star freshman Ryan Williams. He wasted no time making an impact, catching 2 passes for an insane 139 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Here was his 55-yard touchdown catch, the shorter of his 2 receptions:

https://twitter.com/BOL_On3/status/1830045484095774795

The Tide haven’t had a receiver this explosive since … well, it’s only been a couple of years since Jameson Williams was in Tuscaloosa. But still, it’s impressive to see what this Williams was able to do on Saturday with only 2 catches. He’ll be someone opposing defenses have to keep track of at all times, which should open up plays for other Tide receivers.

Oh, and Williams is only 17. He should still be in high school.

3. Keon Sabb is an impact defender

Sabb transferred to Alabama from Michigan this offseason. He’s shown he’s ready to step up and be a leader on the Alabama defense this year, and it didn’t take long for him to make that statement.

Here’s a look at 1 of his 2 first-quarter interceptions:

The secondary was mentioned by many as a potential issue heading into the 2024 season. If Sabb can continue to play like this, the secondary could turn into a strength before we know it.

Alabama hosts USF next weekend at Bryant-Denny Stadium in what should be another comfortable victory.

Adam Spencer

Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.

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