Alabama Opens 2025 Season Against Florida State with High Expectations and a New Identity

The University of Alabama football team begins its 2025 campaign today with a marquee matchup against Florida State at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee. Kickoff is set for 2:30 PM CT, and while the Crimson Tide enter the game as 13.5-point favorites, the stakes go far beyond the scoreboard. For head coach Kalen DeBoer, now in his second season in Tuscaloosa, this game marks a pivotal moment in defining the program's new era.

After a 9–4 finish in 2024 that included a loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl, Alabama is looking to reassert itself as a national contender. DeBoer, who arrived from Washington with a reputation for offensive innovation, has spent the offseason reshaping the team's identity-starting with the quarterback position.

Ty Simpson Era Begins

Redshirt junior Ty Simpson will make his first start as Alabama's quarterback, taking over after a year of uncertainty at the position. Simpson, a true pocket passer, is expected to lead a more vertical, pass-heavy offense than Alabama fans have seen in recent years.

"Ty's earned this opportunity," DeBoer said earlier this week. "He's got the arm talent, the leadership, and the understanding of what we want to do offensively. I'm excited to see him take command."

Simpson will be surrounded by a deep receiving corps, led by sophomore standout Ryan Williams, who posted 865 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Transfers Germie Bernard (from Michigan State) and Isaiah Horton (from Miami) add experience and explosiveness to the mix.

Defensive Depth and Dominance

While the offense is undergoing a transformation, Alabama's defense remains its backbone. The Tide ranked 10th nationally in scoring defense last season, allowing just 17.4 points per game. Linebackers Jihaad Campbell and Deontae Lawson return as anchors, while the secondary features veterans Malachi Moore and Bray Hubbard.

"We've got guys who know how to fly to the football," DeBoer said. "That's the standard here. Physicality, discipline, and execution-that's what we expect every snap."

Florida State, meanwhile, is coming off a disastrous 2–10 season and enters the game with a rebuilt roster. Head coach Mike Norvell brought in Boston College transfer Tommy Castellanos to stabilize the quarterback position, but the Seminoles' offensive line and receiving corps remain question marks.

DeBoer's Mindset: No Room for Complacency

Despite Alabama's 82.5% win probability, DeBoer has emphasized urgency and focus throughout fall camp. The memory of last year's early-season loss to Vanderbilt still lingers, and the second-year coach is determined to avoid a repeat.

"We're not looking past anyone," DeBoer said. "This is a proud program, and we know what's expected. But expectations don't win games-execution does."

He added, "I told our guys: don't chase perfection, chase progress. Every rep, every series, every quarter-stack it. That's how you build championship habits."

Key Matchups to Watch

• Alabama's Receivers vs FSU's Secondary: Florida State's cornerbacks are all new starters, and they'll be tested early by Alabama's speed and route precision.

• FSU's Offensive Line vs Alabama's Front Seven: If Castellanos doesn't get protection, Alabama's pass rush could dominate.

• Special Teams Impact: With a new kicker and punter, Alabama's special teams unit will be under the microscope.

What's at Stake

For Alabama, this game is about more than just starting 1–0. It's a chance to showcase the evolution of DeBoer's system, build momentum heading into SEC play, and reestablish the Crimson Tide as a playoff-caliber team.

For Florida State, it's an opportunity to prove that last season's collapse was an anomaly. A competitive showing-even in defeat-could signal progress and restore confidence in Norvell's leadership.

Final Thoughts

As fans pack into Doak Campbell Stadium and the nation tunes in on ABC, all eyes will be on Alabama's new-look offense and whether DeBoer's vision can translate into results. The pressure is high, but the potential is even higher.

"We've got a lot to prove," DeBoer said. "But I wouldn't trade this group for anything. They're hungry, they're focused, and they're ready."