3 things Ryan Grubb must do for Alabama to win CFP national title in 2026

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He did not follow his good friend to Tuscaloosa (Ala.) in his first season as head coach for Alabama football, but Ryan Grubb joined Kalen DeBoer in 2025.

3 things Kalen DeBoer must do for Alabama to win CFP title in 2026

Grubb, an offensive coordinator, dialed up some good moments last season – especially in matchups versus Wisconsin, Georgia, LSU, Vanderbilt, and Missouri in the regular season – however, he was not consistent when it mattered most. The 50-year-old watched the Crimson Tide crumble late in the season last year, including games versus Georgia (SEC Championship) and Indiana (Rose Bowl, College Football Playoff).

Grubb was one of multiple assistant coaches that was not rewarded a contract extension from the University of Alabama’s Board of Trustees compensation committee.

What Keelon Russell needs to do to win Alabama’s quarterback battle

This season is a pivotal one for him to prove he is right for the offense. He has to excel in three areas for Alabama to make a deep run in the CFP and potentially capture its first national championship since 2020.

Have the starting QB play with consistent confidence

Alabama had offensive coordinators in the Nick Saban era that made sure the starting quarterback operated with consistent confidence.

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Stephen M. Smith is a team writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.