The conclusion of the 2024 football season saw Alabama's Crimson Tide securing a respectable position in the final coaches' poll, landing at No. 17. The team, under the guidance of first-year coach Kalen DeBoer, finished the year with a 9-4 record. Despite their solid performance throughout the season, they faced a setback in the ReliaQuest Bowl, where they were defeated by Michigan. This outcome highlighted both the strengths and challenges the team encountered during this transitional period.

Interestingly, opinions on Alabama's standing varied among the coaching community. Five coaches did not include Alabama in their top 25 rankings, reflecting differing perspectives on the team's overall performance. Coach DeBoer himself, being part of the voting process, ranked his own team slightly higher than the average at No. 15. His ballot included teams like SMU and Indiana ahead of Alabama, sparking discussions among fans who felt these selections were debatable given the playoff exclusions.

The 2024 season marked significant changes in college football, notably the introduction of a 12-team playoff format. Alabama narrowly missed out on this expanded tournament due to regular-season losses against Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. As Ohio State claimed the national championship over Notre Dame, it became clear that consistency and resilience were key factors in determining playoff eligibility. Looking ahead, Alabama will aim to build on this experience, focusing on improving their game to secure a place in future playoffs and continue their legacy of excellence in college football.