Kalen DeBoer Backs Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb After Alabama Slump

DeBoer stands by his play caller

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer is sticking with offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb despite growing fan frustration. The Crimson Tide are coming off back to back losses against Georgia and Tennessee.

After averaging over 40 points per game earlier this season, Alabama scored just 13.5 points per game across the last two weeks. Still, DeBoer expressed full confidence in Grubb, noting that the two have coached together for nearly 20 years. DeBoer pointed to execution details on fourth and 1 situations rather than poor play calls as the main issue.

Grubb takes accountability for offensive failures

Grubb did not hide his disappointment regarding recent performances. He called scoring 10 points against Tennessee embarrassing and described failing to score a second half touchdown in consecutive games as pathetic. He added that fans have every right to be angry with the current results.

The offensive coordinator acknowledged his responsibility in helping quarterback Keelon Russell bounce back. Russell was a top Heisman Trophy contender through the first five games. However, he turned the ball over four times with two interceptions and two fumbles while throwing just one touchdown over the past two weeks. Grubb remains firm that Russell is the best quarterback in America and wants to simplify concepts to help him play faster.

Injuries stack up before Texas A&M clash

Alabama faces a major home game on Saturday against Texas A&M, where a third straight loss would severely hurt their College Football Playoff chances.

To make matters tougher, three key players are questionable for the game. Starting receiver Ryan Coleman Williams, center Racin Delgatty, and second string running back EJ Crowell are all dealing with injuries. DeBoer stated that team standards will not change and that the squad is focused on getting back to work.

What it means for the next game

Texas A&M Aggies at Alabama Crimson Tide (College Football, Sat, 24 Oct): Alabama Crimson Tide win 83%, Texas A&M Aggies win 17%; projected score Alabama Crimson Tide 33, Texas A&M Aggies 18. Our safest pick: Alabama to win.