ESPN/SEC Annual Report Cards: Alabama Crimson Tide Earns “A” Grade from ESPN — Power, Precision, Pride Define 2024-25 Season
In ESPN’s much-anticipated SEC Annual Report Card for the 2024-25 season, the Alabama Crimson Tide has once again proven its status as a gold standard in college football, earning a prestigious “A” grade for an outstanding year marked by dominance, discipline, and dynamism. The report, released as part of ESPN’s comprehensive review of every SEC team, praised Alabama for its consistency, power, and championship-caliber execution on both sides of the ball.
Under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, the Tide not only maintained their historic legacy but elevated their game with a renewed sense of identity. This season was one of transition following the legendary tenure of Nick Saban, but the Crimson Tide showed the college football world that dynasties don’t die—they evolve.
The ESPN grading system evaluated teams across several key areas: offensive efficiency, defensive strength, special teams, coaching, and intangibles such as leadership and team chemistry. Alabama earned high marks in all categories, particularly for its explosive offense, disciplined defense, and the remarkable development of quarterback Jalen Milroe, who emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the nation.
Milroe’s evolution into a poised, intelligent field general was one of the season’s biggest storylines. His decision-making, deep-ball accuracy, and clutch performances in big games were critical to Alabama’s success. Combined with a powerful running game and a deep receiving corps, the Tide’s offense became nearly unstoppable during the heart of the SEC schedule.
Defensively, Alabama lived up to its storied tradition of physical, punishing football. The unit, led by a ferocious front seven and a ball-hawking secondary, consistently shut down top-ranked offenses and made key plays in pressure-packed moments. The leadership of veterans and the emergence of young stars created a perfect storm of aggression, speed, and intelligence.
One of the highlights of the season was Alabama’s commanding performance in the SEC Championship Game, where the Tide outclassed their opponent in all phases of the game. That victory not only solidified their place among the nation’s elite but also affirmed that DeBoer had successfully reloaded—not rebuilt—the Alabama machine.
ESPN analysts were unanimous in their praise. “Alabama’s 2024-25 season was a masterclass in adaptation and excellence,” said ESPN’s SEC insider Greg McElroy. “They were challenged early but responded like champions. The coaching transition was smooth, and the standard in Tuscaloosa remains sky-high.”
Off the field, the program continued to excel in academics, leadership, and community service, further reinforcing Alabama’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes. The team’s culture of accountability, brotherhood, and discipline remained intact and thriving.
Fans across the Crimson Nation celebrated the report card as validation of a remarkable season. From Bryant-Denny Stadium to homes across America, the message is clear: Alabama is still the class of college football.
As ESPN’s report concludes: Power. Precision. Pride. — the Alabama Crimson Tide didn’t just play football in 2024-25 — they redefined what excellence loo
ks like in the SEC.