Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said he understands the relentless expectations that come with leading a blue-blood program, even after going 20-8 in two seasons. He emphasized that keeping roster and staff continuity is vital to sustained success, particularly in an era shaped by the transfer portal.
Spring practices are underway, bringing optimism, settled rosters and coaches who are talking up their teams. The offseason features six new SEC head coaches, added pressure on established programs to reach the College Football Playoff and possible shifts among the Group of 6. Here are the main takeaways from around the country and what coaches are saying about the playoff landscape.
Around the country
Oregon: Dan Lanning called it the program’s top offseason win that at least eight players who could have entered the NFL draft chose to return, including QB Dante Moore and several high-end defenders such as A’Mauri Washington, Bear Alexander, Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti. Lanning credited the program’s trust and players’ maturity for convincing them to bet on another college season.
Texas Tech: Joey McGuire relayed his son Garret’s bold aim: to make Texas Tech the first Big 12 pr