Introduction

Paul Finebaum did not hold back in his criticism of Alabama’s stunning 24-3 defeat to Oklahoma. During his regular segment on the Matt Barrie Show, Finebaum expressed his dismay over the Crimson Tide’s apparent lack of preparation and focus in their latest loss.

Finebaum's Critique

“Let me cut to the chase,” Finebaum stated emphatically. “It was simply inexcusable. You can blame anyone you want, but the accountability should start at the very top. That team looked completely unprepared and unfocused. They didn’t even seem to understand what was coming their way, and honestly, that’s baffling. Everyone who follows football knows that Brent Venables has built an elite defensive unit.

Impact on Alabama's Season

This latest loss marks the third setback for first-year coach Kalen DeBoer, putting Alabama's College Football Playoff aspirations in serious jeopardy as the regular season draws to a close. Finebaum questioned how Alabama could still be regarded as a legitimate playoff contender given their lackluster performance.

Finebaum's Doubts

“I don’t see how you can consider Alabama a valid playoff team,” he said. “They’ve suffered losses to Vanderbilt, a team with five losses, and now Oklahoma, which also has five losses. If we were ranking SEC teams, Alabama would likely sit in the bottom tier.”

Growing Disconnect

The veteran sports analyst also noted the growing disconnect between DeBoer and the Alabama fan base. "I’m receiving texts at all hours from traditional Alabama supporters who are questioning, ‘What have we gotten ourselves into?’” Finebaum recounted. “This is a worse team than what we saw against Vanderbilt. The players looked completely dazed.”

Looking Ahead

Despite this disappointing season, there's still a glimmer of hope for the Crimson Tide to make a run for the College Football Playoff at 9-3, but it hinges on the outcomes of the final weeks in college football. Alabama now prepares to conclude their regular season against their fierce rivals, Auburn, next weekend—a match that could define DeBoer’s inaugural season at the helm.

Conclusion

With mounting pressure and critical eyes watching, can Alabama rise to the occasion and redeem themselves against Auburn? Will DeBoer’s future as head coach be sealed with another defeat? The countdown to gameday begins now.