Alabama fans are not accustomed to losing, and ex-Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban’s daughter Kristen is no exception. On Saturday, the Florida State stunned Alabama 31-17. Analysts blamed the new offense and a retooled defense.
Alabama legend Saban was a perfect 17-0 in season openers. It’s the second season for the head coach, Kalen DeBoer, and it’s not looking good already. For the first time in 24 years, the Crimson Tide is 0-1 to start the season.
Nick Saban’s Daughter Kristen Urges Fans to Be Kinder
Filling someone else’s shoe is hard; it’s nearly impossible to fill the legendary Saban’s shoe. DeBoer knew what he was signing up for when he replaced Saban in January 2024. In Alabama, the head coach’s job is subject to constant scrutiny.
It’s just the second season, and criticism has already begun. Fans have started torching the former Washington coach, DeBoer, and the coaching staff for the embarrassing season opener. However, Kristen has empathetically urged fans to consider the people behind the team and to keep their reactions civil.
Nick Saban’s daughter, Kristen, with a message to Alabama, and I guess other CFB fans, after the loss to Florida State. pic.twitter.com/3lL9sfHwRg
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) August 31, 2025
Kristen took to Instagram after Alabama’s Week 1 upset loss to Florida State with a plea for fans to stay calm.
She wrote,
“Don’t forget there’s a family behind all of those players and coaches/staff. Everything you post can be read by anyone and it hurts people. Just a friendly reminder. Not speaking from personal experience or anything.”
Kristen Saban
She has a point. Coaches and players aren’t just athletes; they have families, and nothing justifies threats, racist attacks, or hateful messages. That kind of behavior is always unacceptable.
DeBoer Contract and Buyout
DeBoer signed an eight-year $87 million contract in January 2024. He will earn over $10 million per year through the 2031 season. DeBoer is one of nine coaches to make at least $10 million annually.
Also, the former Washington head coach has one of the largest buyouts among college football coaches. If Alabama were to let DeBoer go, it would owe 90% of its remaining contract, meaning his buyout would be around $70 million.
Athletic director Greg Byrne had Mike Norvell at the top of his coaching wishlist after Saban in January 2014. However, Alabama went with DeBoer, who is 9-5 overall in just 14 games into his tenure.
Is this the same version of DeBoer who took Washington to the national championship game two years ago? And how long will Alabama supporters continue to trust the current product put on the field?
