How will we define Alabama Post-Saban during 2024 season?

The way Nick Saban spoiled Alabama fans was defined easily by the loss column. If there was a zero in the loss column, the standard was met. If there was a one in the loss column, was Alabama able to avenge that loss and claim a national championship, that was a successful season. If there was a number two or greater, the season seemed like a failure, even though last season’s loss in the College Football Playoff semifinal against Michigan in the Rose Bowl, there were many times Saban said this was one of his favorite teams he has ever coached.

As college football as a whole and Alabama turns the page in their storied history, how will a 2024 season be defined as a success? Let’s examine:

#1 DeBoer continues dominance in the Iron Bowl

It always seemed in the Nick Saban era, that Saban always had an answer for Auburn, even if it was a fourth and miracle to Isaiah Bond to secure a fourth consecutive Iron Bowl victory. Saban in his career was 12-5 against Auburn. If one thing DeBoer can reverse, is a win against Auburn that finishes with nine or more wins. Auburn was 4-0 against Saban at Alabama when it had nine or more wins, the last time Alabama beat an Auburn team that had nine or more wins was 1994.

#2 Keeping Kirby in Check

If there is another team that looks to benefit most from Saban’s retirement and DeBoer’s transition is Georgia and Kirby Smart. Saban owned Smart, winning five of six, including last season's SEC Championship Game that thwarted Georgia’s attempt for a three-peat. Georgia visits Bryant-Denny, and this could mark a changing of the guard or Alabama maintaining its mastery of the Bulldogs.

#3 Keeping the “New Kids On The Block” In Check

Alabama completed a split in a two-game series with Texas last season. With the road team stealing a win in the series. Texas leveraged the Alabama win to get them to their first College Football Playoff appearance. While the Crimson Tide avoids the Longhorns, they will meet the Oklahoma Sooners in Norman the week before the Iron Bowl. This is a game that both may need to secure a playoff spot or a chance in the SEC Championship Game.

#4 Winning A Game In The College Football Playoff

With the College Football Playoff expanding, simply getting there isn’t enough. Making it to the Semifinal will be the minimum around Tuscaloosa and something DeBoer can create his own standard beginning this season.