After Alabama’s thrilling 41-34 victory over Georgia, it’s time to declare Kalen DeBoer as the best coach in college football. While such a bold statement may seem reactionary following an exhilarating game, the evidence supports this claim.
DeBoer’s record stands at an impressive 30-3 in power conference coaching. His performance against top rivals is particularly striking; he holds a flawless 6-0 record against prominent coaches like Kirby Smart, Dan Lanning, and Steve Sarkisian.
Given this remarkable track record, DeBoer makes a compelling case for being the top coach in the sport. He has outperformed Lanning and Sarkisian, both of whom have yet to secure a national championship as of last season. DeBoer managed to defeat Lanning twice in 2023 and outclassed Sarkisian in the CFP semifinal.
With Nick Saban’s retirement and Jim Harbaugh’s departure to the NFL after winning the national title, the coaching landscape has shifted significantly. The opportunity for a new leader atop college football emerged, and DeBoer has stepped into that role.
The matchup between Alabama and Georgia was seen as the first major test for the vacant throne, and DeBoer emerged victorious, solidifying his status.
Critics may point to Kirby Smart’s two championship titles as a counterargument to DeBoer’s rising status. While Smart’s achievements are undeniable, DeBoer is on a similar trajectory. In his first two seasons at Georgia, Smart won 21 games and reached a national title game, though he didn’t clinch a championship until his sixth season.
In contrast, DeBoer has already won 25 games and has also reached a title game within two seasons at Washington. His pace suggests he could secure a national title within his third or fourth season as a power conference coach.
If Alabama and Georgia were to face each other again in the SEC Championship or a playoff game, a Georgia victory could shift the narrative back to Smart. Additionally, there’s the possibility of Sarkisian, Lanning, or even Ryan Day claiming a national championship, which would complicate the discussion on the best coach.
As the 2024 season progresses, the competition for the title of best coach remains fierce. DeBoer’s achievements have positioned him well, and his continued success could further cement his legacy in college football.
Overall, Kalen DeBoer’s recent accomplishments illustrate his potential to dominate the coaching landscape in the coming years. With each victory, he strengthens his claim to being the top coach in the sport.