Scarborough: What changed for Alabama? Against Florida State, not nearly enough - 247Sports

Alabama Football Team's Downward Spiral: A Year of Decline

The world of college football is always filled with surprises and upsets. However, when a powerhouse program like Alabama experiences a drastic decline in performance over the course of just one year, it raises some serious eyebrows. The latest chapter in this saga unfolded on Saturday in Tallahassee, Florida, where the Crimson Tide suffered a humbling loss to an unranked opponent.

A Year of Decline

For those who may not be familiar with Alabama football, let me provide some context. The team has been one of the most dominant forces in college athletics for decades, with a rich history of success and a loyal fan base that expects nothing but excellence on the field. However, over the past year, the tide seems to have turned against them.

From a mediocre finish in the 2024 season to a shocking opening loss in 2025, it's clear that something is amiss. The team's performance has been lackluster, with players struggling to execute even the simplest of plays. It's not just about winning games; it's about playing with heart and passion, which seems to be lacking on this particular Alabama team.

The Loss in Tallahassee

On Saturday, the Crimson Tide took on the Florida State Seminoles in the 2025 season opener. What was expected to be a straightforward victory turned out to be a nail-biter, with the Seminoles emerging victorious by a narrow margin of 17-14.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows and neither able to gain a clear advantage. However, it was Florida State that ultimately came out on top, thanks in large part to their stingy defense, which limited Alabama's offense to just a handful of first downs.

What Went Wrong

So, what went wrong for the Alabama football team? Was it a lack of experience among the new players, or perhaps a coaching staff that couldn't get things right? The answer is likely a combination of both.

In the offseason, there were several key departures from the program, including the loss of some veteran starters to graduation and injury. This created an opportunity for young players to step up and take on more responsibility. However, it seems like they were not quite ready for prime time just yet.

Additionally, the coaching staff made some questionable decisions on the sidelines, which may have contributed to the team's struggles on offense. Whether it was a failure to adapt to Florida State's defensive scheme or simply a lack of creativity in play-calling, whatever the reason, it's clear that the Tide were not prepared for what they faced on Saturday.

Looking Ahead

As Alabama looks to regroup and refocus, there are several key questions that need to be answered. Will the team be able to bounce back from this tough loss and get back on track? Can the coaching staff find a way to reignite the spark that has been missing from the program?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Alabama football fans are not used to seeing their team struggle like this. The Crimson Tide have always been known for their blue blood and excellence, so it's going to take something special for them to get back on track.

Conclusion

The story of the 2025 Alabama football season serves as a reminder that even the most powerful programs can experience setbacks. However, what makes Alabama different is the way they respond to adversity. Will they be able to overcome their struggles and get back to being the dominant force we've come to expect? Only time will tell.

In the meantime, fans will have to wait with bated breath to see how this season unfolds. One thing is for sure: it won't be an easy ride, but with the Crimson Tide's rich history and tradition of excellence, there's always a chance that they'll find their way back to the top.

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