Kalen DeBoer: Alabama Merits CFP Spot Despite Georgia Defeat

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Kalen DeBoer: Alabama Merits CFP Spot Despite Georgia Defeat

In a recent SEC championship game, Alabama faced a tough defeat against Georgia, losing 28-7. Despite this setback, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer argued that the No. 9 Crimson Tide still deserve a position in the College Football Playoff (CFP). He maintained that a loss in a conference title game should not adversely affect their playoff resume.

Kalen DeBoer Advocates for CFP Spot Despite Loss

DeBoer expressed his thoughts clearly, indicating that the precedent for playoff selections should not exclude teams based on a single loss in a championship game. “If this game applies to and takes away from our résumé, I don’t think that’s right,” he stated.

Throughout the season, Alabama had showcased their strength, initially suffering a 31-17 loss to Florida State but rebounding with eight consecutive victories. Their season included notable wins over teams such as Georgia, Vanderbilt, Missouri, and Tennessee. However, a loss to Oklahoma on November 15 complicated their journey.

Key Game Details

Opponent: No. 3 Georgia
Score: Alabama 7 – Georgia 28
Date: SEC Championship Game
Alabama’s Season Record: 8 wins, 2 losses

During the championship game, Alabama struggled offensively, recording merely 16 carries for a total of minus-3 rushing yards. This marked a rare occasion in the program’s history, being just the second time they finished with negative rushing yards. DeBoer reflected on the game strategy, emphasizing a need to take risks to win.

With 8:13 left in the game, DeBoer made a pivotal decision to go for it on fourth-and-2 from Alabama’s 12-yard line. Quarterback Ty Simpson’s pass attempt fell incomplete, leading to a quick touchdown from Georgia just moments later.

Injury Struggles and Resilience

DeBoer noted the absence of key players, including running back Jam Miller, who he believes could have altered the game’s outcome. He mentioned, “Two of our three losses are when Jam doesn’t play.” This highlights the team’s challenges in depth and injury management this season.

Alabama’s defensive struggles were evident as Georgia capitalized on favorable field positions, largely due to special teams errors. DeBoer stated that this was a deciding factor in the game’s outcome, yet he praised his team’s determination to remain competitive until the final minutes.

Looking to the Future

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey echoed DeBoer’s sentiments, stating that a loss to Georgia should not define Alabama’s merit for the CFP. “That may be the best team in the country right now,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of Alabama’s overall performance throughout the season.

As the selection committee prepares for the upcoming playoff, the discussion around Alabama’s inclusion remains pertinent. Alabama’s quarterback Ty Simpson also commented on the performance, reinforcing the idea that their tough schedule makes them a worthy contender for the playoffs.

With the possibility of returning key players, Alabama will focus on proving their legitimacy as a playoff team, regardless of the championship game’s outcome. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the CFP selection process addressing the implications of this significant loss.