Why Kalen DeBoer believes Alabama took steps forward in running game vs. Oklahoma

Nov 15, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Daniel Hill (4) runs into the end zone for a touchdown as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Robert Spears-Jennings (3) closes in at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Oklahoma defeated Alabama 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Alabama football’s poor running game was labeled as one of the reasons why the Crimson Tide dropped six spots in the College Football Playoff rankings, but head coach Kalen DeBoer believes his team’s rushing attack took steps in the right direction against Oklahoma.

On the SEC Coaches Teleconference, DeBoer detailed the improvements he saw in the ground game and pointed out how the performance against Oklahoma was one of Alabama’s better rushing performances in SEC play.

“I feel like we sustained blocks,” DeBoer said. “I feel like our communication was better. I think there were some running lanes for us to run through. Normal down and distances, there was an average I think that was probably better than pretty much most of the teams that have played Oklahoma, and for us, that was better than what we’ve done the last month for sure against a very good defense. Short-yardage, goal line, we punched it in. We’ve struggled there early in the season.”

The Crimson Tide finished with 80 yards rushing against a tough Sooners defense, and they also were able to finish with over 400 total yards.

DeBoer said there is no internal disbelief surrounding Alabama’s run game, adding that the team feels confident in its ability to create successful drives.

“There really wasn’t a feeling like we couldn’t run the football,” DeBoer said. “We were finding a lot of success in the passing game, and I understand there was an interception for a touchdown and a strip sack. That certainly was a killer for us, but we felt very good moving the football up and down the field.”

The play from running back Daniel Hill has improved over the last couple of weeks, and he continued to receive more and more carries. Hill carried the ball more times than starter Jam Miller, and Hill even found a way to break off an explosive 28-yard run that gave the fans in Bryant-Denny Stadium a jolt of energy.

Alabama has one more week to improve the running game before facing Auburn in Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Crimson Tide will play Eastern Illinois on Saturday, so it will be a great time for Alabama to get things going and possibly experiment with lineup changes if needed.