Alabama, Kalen DeBoer
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DeBoer's winning pedigree and offensive innovation offer Michigan a chance to rebuild. But can he truly conquer Tuscaloosa's shadow?
Beyond the wins and losses, there is a narrative at stake here that's more than just wins and losses. A loss in the College Football Playoff opener can steer conventional wisdom -- right or wrong -- about a team, or in this year's case, whether half the sport even belongs in the format at all.
There isn't a commitment issue at Alabama. There's a results problem -- and Tide coach Kalen DeBoer better figure out how to beat Oklahoma.
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer has made a strong start in Tuscaloosa.
1don MSN
Oklahoma's Venables, Alabama's DeBoer overcome critics, lead blue blood programs to the playoff
DeBoer is in his second season with the Crimson Tide after stepping in for the retired Nick Saban and Venables is in his fourth year leading the Sooners following Lincoln Riley's departure. Both had impeccable credentials.
Several coaches have been linked to the Michigan job since it opened, with the likes of Alabama's Kalen DeBoer and Arizona State's Kenny Dillingham being among the more highly rumored candidates for the job.