Alabama has a new offensive coordinator, as Kalen DeBoer re-hired Ryan Grubb after his brief stint with the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks. Grubb originally agreed to join the Crimson Tide last year but left for Seattle before ever coaching a game. He was replaced by Nick Sheridan, who had worked with DeBoer at Washington.
Now 48, Grubb brings a wealth of experience from college football, where he thrived as offensive coordinator at Washington and Fresno State, leading successful offenses with quarterbacks like Michael Penix and Jake Haener. He’ll now try to revive an Alabama offense that underperformed in 2024, despite having quarterback Jalen Milroe. Milroe is now headed to the NFL, but Alabama still has talent, including wide receivers Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard and running back Jam Miller. Ty Simpson is expected to be the starting quarterback in 2025, though there could be competition from sophomore Austin Mack and five-star freshman Keelon Russell.
With Grubb’s track record, there are high expectations for the Alabama offense to become one of the best in the country, much like Washington’s offense during his tenure. If successful, he could quickly become a fan favorite in Tuscaloosa.
Who is the greatest offensive coordinator in Alabama football history? Here’s a look at some of the top names:
- Mal Moore (1971-82, 1990-93): Moore was Alabama’s quarterbacks coach and primary play-caller under legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. He played a pivotal role in multiple national championships, both as a player and assistant coach.
- Homer Smith (1988-89, 1994-95): Known for his innovative offensive mind, Smith led Alabama’s offense during one of its most successful stretches, helping develop quarterback Jay Barker into a Heisman finalist.
- Jim McElwain (2008-11): McElwain helped revamp Alabama’s offense, contributing to two national championships and guiding quarterback John Parker Wilson to success.
- Lane Kiffin (2014-16): Kiffin revolutionized Alabama’s offense with the no-huddle, spread system, contributing to three straight SEC championships and the 2015 national title.
- Mike Locksley (2018): In just one season, Locksley helmed one of the most prolific offenses in Alabama history, with numerous school records, including points per game and total offense.
- Steve Sarkisian (2019-20): Sarkisian directed two of the best offensive seasons in Alabama’s history, leading the team to a national title in 2020 and breaking multiple offensive records.
When it comes to total production, Sarkisian is arguably the top choice, though Moore’s legacy, Smith’s innovation, and Kiffin’s modernization of the offense are also key highlights. Who do you think deserves the title of greatest offensive coordinator in Alabama history?
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