Paul Finebaum Has A 'Problem' With One SEC Powerhouse

There are always a lot of changes in college football each offseason but this past one takes the cake in terms of the biggest headlines generated.

While all of the conference realignment moves became officially official, the transfer portal was as wild as ever, and NIL deals were seemingly flying all over the place, it was actually one coaching move that shook the sports world. Legendary Alabama head coach Nick Saban decided it was time to call it a career, and retired.

Stepping in his place is former Washington coach, Kalen DeBoer who was able to retain some of the best players on not only Alabama's roster, but in college football. The headliner of course being quarterback Jalen Milroe, who went from being benched early in the season to making a late push for the Hesiman trophy. A quarterback that ESPN's Paul Finebaum thinks will be "great" in 2024.

“I think he’s going to be great,” Finebaum said on ESPN's Get Up . “I think he has enough ability to be a Heisman finalist and to lead Alabama to the playoffs and beyond.”

However, even with how talented Milroe is, there is one aspect of the Crimson Tide's team that Finebaum thinks will hold them back.

Finebaum revealed that even if Milroe ends up in New York City for the Heisman ceremony, or if Alabama is contending for the SEC title it is their defense that will prevent them from contending for a title.

“The problem I have with Alabama is not Jalen Milroe. It’s the defense,” said Finebaum. “The secondary is very thin and that’s the key to winning big games in the end.”

Finebuam took it a step further, saying that unlike in year's past this team simply doesn't have the talent to be the final team standing.

“They’re a playoff team but I don’t think they’re going to win the national championship, even though Jalen Milroe is good enough to lead them,” said Finebaum.

A playoff appearance for any coach in year one would be a big deal, but for DeBoer he will quickly learn that Alabama is championship or bust every single season.

Related: Paul Finebaum Issues Major Warning To Nebraska's Matt Rhule