Coach Kalen DeBoer Reflects on Team’s 34-0 Shutout Victory Over Missouri

Tuscaloosa, AL – After Alabama’s 34-0 win over Missouri on Saturday, head coach Kalen DeBoer expressed pride in his team’s performance while keeping a critical eye on areas for improvement. The win, which marked Alabama’s first SEC shutout of the season, showcased the Crimson Tide’s growing strength on both sides of the ball. DeBoer shared his insights at the postgame press conference, highlighting key moments and individual performances.

“We played good team football today,” DeBoer said, praising Alabama’s cohesiveness throughout the game. Yet, he acknowledged that despite the strong performance, Alabama still has work to do in refining their awareness and discipline on the field. “We have to stay out of situations where our backs are against the wall,” he noted, pointing to penalties and mistakes that occasionally set the team back.

Defensive Standout Moments and the

Push for a Shutout

DeBoer was especially proud of Alabama’s defense, which held Missouri scoreless and put together a goal-line stand in the closing minutes. When asked about the defense’s progress, DeBoer’s response was measured: “You’re only as good as your last play.” He emphasized the importance of building an “attacking mindset” among his defenders to keep the pressure on opponents and prevent playing on their heels.

DeBoer’s decision to call a timeout late in the game reflected his determination to secure the shutout. “Those are momentum builders,” he said, stressing the importance of third- and fourth-down stops that fuel the team’s confidence and sense of unity.

Offensive Success and Injury Update

On the offensive side, DeBoer celebrated the contributions of running backs Justice Haynes and Jam Miller, who showcased their strength as a “1-2 punch” that DeBoer believes will be pivotal for the team moving forward. Haynes delivered a memorable touchdown run, breaking through a Missouri defender with what DeBoer described as a “thunderous” impact. “That’s a step in the right direction,” he added, reflecting on the development of Alabama’s ground game.

Alabama’s win was dampened slightly by an injury to wide receiver Cole Adams, who left the game on crutches. “It feels like it will be something with a little bit of time,” DeBoer shared, noting that Adams’s condition will be monitored closely in the days ahead.

A Focus on Growth and Resilience

DeBoer took time to commend defensive back Malachi Moore, who has shown notable growth since a challenging game against Vanderbilt. “There are moments you go through,” DeBoer said of Moore’s recent improvement. “That was a moment he’s not going to want to go back to… The way he’s bringing it in practice shows a lot of growth.” Moore’s determination and resilience have paid off, and DeBoer is pleased to see his hard work rewarded on the field.

With Alabama now at 6-2 overall and 3-2 in SEC play, the Crimson Tide has a bye week to rest and refocus before facing LSU. As DeBoer put it, “Everything, we’ve just got to keep learning from.” He remains focused on refining Alabama’s performance, preparing his team to build on the success of Saturday’s win while setting their sights on continued growth in the weeks ahead.