When it comes to Alabama football, there’s always one pressing question on the minds of fans: Will Alabama make the playoffs in 2024? It’s almost a tradition for Crimson Tide supporters to speculate about playoff possibilities before the season even kicks off. With the introduction of the new 12-team College Football Playoff format and a challenging schedule on the horizon, Alabama fans have every reason to wonder how this season will pan out. Alabama’s dominance on the college football stage is legendary, but with changes in the coaching staff and roster, and a grueling schedule ahead, the road to the 2024 playoffs is anything but certain.
The 12-Team Playoff Format: A New Path for Alabama
One of the biggest shifts in college football is the expansion of the College Football Playoff from 4 to 12 teams, starting in 2024. This new format provides an expanded path for elite programs like Alabama. Under the previous system, one loss could derail a team’s season, and two losses almost guaranteed missing the playoffs. But now, with 12 teams in the mix, Alabama can afford a slip-up or two, as long as they prove themselves as one of the top programs in the country.
This expanded format benefits programs like Alabama, which face tough schedules year after year. The new system takes into account the strength of schedule, conference championships, and the overall quality of teams. For Alabama, this means even with a difficult schedule and potential losses, the playoff door remains wide open​
A Gauntlet of a Schedule: Alabama’s 2024 Road Ahead
While the 12-team format may offer Alabama more breathing room, the 2024 season won’t be a cakewalk. Alabama’s schedule for the upcoming season is one of the toughest in recent memory. The SEC, already a powerhouse conference, is becoming even more formidable with the addition of Texas and Oklahoma.
Alabama will face several key matchups that will define their season, including road games against Tennessee and LSU, two programs that have surged in recent years. The Tide will also host defending national champion Georgia, as well as archrival Auburn in the annual Iron Bowl. Not to mention, Alabama will travel to play Oklahoma, adding another tough road game to an already-stacked schedule​
While this schedule looks daunting, it could work in Alabama’s favor. Wins against top-tier opponents like Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee will make a strong case for the Tide, even if they drop a game or two. With the new playoff format, it’s all about finishing strong and proving you belong among the elite​
Key Roster Changes: New Coach, Same Expectations
One of the biggest changes heading into the 2024 season is the retirement of the legendary Nick Saban, who has been the face of Alabama football for over a decade. With Saban stepping down, Alabama hired Kalen DeBoer, the former head coach of Washington. DeBoer is known for his offensive-minded approach, which could bring a fresh, dynamic feel to the Tide’s offense.
Alabama fans are optimistic but cautious, knowing that replacing Saban’s leadership and experience won’t be easy. Still, DeBoer has proven his ability to build high-scoring offenses, and if he can implement his system quickly, Alabama will continue to be a playoff contender​.
The Quarterback Situation: Milroe’s Moment to Shine?
At quarterback, Jalen Milroe is expected to return as the starter for the 2024 season. Milroe’s dual-threat abilities bring an exciting dynamic to Alabama’s offense. After showing flashes of brilliance in 2023, Milroe’s challenge will be to develop consistency and take command of the offense. Alabama fans are hopeful that under DeBoer’s system, Milroe can take his game to the next level and lead the Tide to the playoffs​
Backup quarterback Ty Simpson will also be waiting in the wings, and competition between the two could drive both players to perform at their best. In any case, the quarterback position will be crucial to Alabama’s success in 2024.
Defense: Reloading the Crimson Wall
Alabama’s defense will need to reload in 2024 after losing key players to the NFL draft, but if there’s one thing Alabama is known for, it’s their ability to quickly develop and replace talent. Players like Keon Sabb and Domani Jackson are expected to step into leadership roles in the secondary, while the defensive line and linebacker corps will look to maintain Alabama’s reputation for shutting down opponents
As the season progresses, Alabama’s defense will be tested by elite offenses in the SEC, and how quickly they come together will play a major role in determining whether Alabama can make a strong playoff push.
What Will It Take for Alabama to Make the Playoffs in 2024?
With so many unknowns—a new coach, a challenging schedule, and developing talent—many wonder: Will Alabama make the playoffs in 2024? The answer, as always, depends on how well they navigate the key matchups and adjust to the new playoff format.
Here’s what needs to happen for Alabama to secure a playoff spot:
- Strong Performance in Key Games: Alabama will face several top-tier opponents, including Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee. Winning at least two of these matchups will be crucial.
- Minimize Losses: While the new playoff format allows for more flexibility, Alabama can’t afford too many losses. A 10-2 or 11-1 record, combined with a strong showing in the SEC Championship Game, would likely secure a spot.
- Improvement from Jalen Milroe: Milroe’s development as a passer will be key to the success of the offense. If he can limit turnovers and elevate his decision-making, Alabama’s offense could be one of the most dangerous in the country.
- Defensive Cohesion: Alabama’s defense will face high-powered offenses all season. If they can gel quickly and maintain their standard of excellence, the Tide will be tough to beat.
- Adaptation to New Coaching: How well Alabama adjusts to DeBoer’s system will be a major factor. If the players buy in early and DeBoer can implement his game plan effectively, Alabama should be right in the mix for a playoff spot.
Alabama Fans: The Ever-Present Question of Playoffs
Every season, no matter the circumstances, Alabama fans find themselves asking the same question: Will Alabama make the playoffs in 2024? This year is no different, with the excitement of a new coaching staff and the challenges of a tough SEC schedule creating plenty of anticipation. Crimson Tide fans have been spoiled with success in the Nick Saban era, and while the future remains uncertain, the passion and expectation surrounding the program have never been higher. With so many factors in play, the 2024 season promises to be one of the most thrilling and unpredictable in recent memory. But one thing is for sure: Alabama will be fighting until the very end for a chance to once again compete for a national championship.
Will Alabama Make the Playoffs in 2024?
So, will Alabama make the playoffs in 2024? Given the expanded playoff format and Alabama’s proven track record of excellence, the odds are certainly in their favor. The 12-team format allows for some margin of error, meaning Alabama could afford a loss or two and still find themselves in the postseason. However, with one of the toughest schedules in the country and a new head coach at the helm, the road to the playoffs will not be easy​
At the end of the day, when the dust settles, Will Alabama make the playoffs in 2024? It’s a safe bet that they will, but as always in college football, anything can happen. One thing is certain: Alabama’s journey through the 2024 season will be full of excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Fans will be watching closely, hoping that by the season’s end, the Tide will once again be rolling into the College Football Playoff.
