‘Itching to Disrespect’: Alabama Podcasters Call Out Unfair Treatment of Crimson Tide Post-Dynasty
For years, Alabama football under Nick Saban was the gold standard in college football, commanding respect and instilling fear in opponents. But with the Crimson Tide experiencing a rare downturn in dominance this season, two Alabama podcasters believe that fans of rival programs—and even neutral supporters—were quick to revel in their struggles.
On the Locked On Bama YouTube channel, hosts Luke Robinson and Jimmy Stein shared their thoughts on the wave of anti-Alabama sentiment that emerged during the team’s 2025 campaign. The Crimson Tide ended the regular season with a 9-3 record, a respectable performance by general standards but a clear departure from the championship-caliber success fans have come to expect.
The Rise of Anti-Alabama Sentiment
Robinson and Stein noted that rival fan bases, particularly Auburn supporters, have always enjoyed Alabama’s setbacks. However, they expressed surprise at the extent to which non-rival fans took pleasure in the Crimson Tide’s perceived decline.
“I don’t know what we did to deserve such a lack of respect. I mean, I guess people were just itching to start disrespecting us because we have forced people to respect us for so long,” Robinson said. “I know a lot of Auburn friends, but I mean, that’s just tradition. They’re like, ‘I can’t wait till y’all fall off.’”
This season marked a significant transition for the program, as Alabama navigated its first campaign without legendary head coach Nick Saban, who retired after solidifying his place as one of the greatest coaches in college football history. Under his leadership, Alabama built a dynasty with multiple national championships, consistently dominating the SEC and beyond.
A Season of Adjustments
Despite falling short of their usual standards, the Crimson Tide’s 9-3 record was not indicative of a program in freefall. However, by the elevated benchmarks set during the Saban era, the season was considered disappointing. Critics quickly pointed to the team’s struggles as evidence that Alabama’s dynasty might be over, fueling a narrative that Robinson and Stein found unfair.
Still, the podcasters acknowledged that the team’s performance wasn’t up to par, citing challenges in adapting to life without Saban, inconsistencies on the field, and the rise of other powerhouse programs.
Rebuilding for 2025: Can Alabama Reclaim Its Throne?
Looking ahead, the Crimson Tide will need to focus heavily on recruiting and the transfer portal to remain competitive in a crowded SEC. With several top players declaring for the NFL draft, Alabama faces significant roster turnover.
According to College Football Network’s recent three-round NFL mock draft, six Alabama players are projected to be selected early:
- Linebacker Jihaad Campbell
- Interior offensive lineman Tyler Booker
- Quarterback Jalen Milroe
- Edge rusher LT Overton
- Linebacker Deontae Lawson
- Cornerback Domani Jackson
These key departures leave substantial gaps in Alabama’s roster, particularly at quarterback, linebacker, and in the trenches. The team’s ability to replace these stars with top-tier recruits or experienced transfers will determine whether the Crimson Tide can bounce back to championship form in the 2025 season.
The Tide’s Legacy: A Target for Criticism
As the Crimson Tide work to rebuild, Robinson and Stein believe Alabama’s history of dominance makes them an easy target for criticism. For over a decade, Alabama set the bar for college football success, a feat that naturally bred envy and animosity from rival programs and their fans.
“Success breeds haters,” Stein remarked during the podcast. “When you’re on top for so long, people are just waiting for you to stumble. That’s what’s happening now.”
Despite the noise, Alabama remains one of the most respected programs in college football, with a track record of rebounding from adversity. The 2025 season will be a critical test for the program, and the Crimson Tide will undoubtedly look to prove their doubters wrong.
Can Alabama Silence the Critics?
With their legacy on the line, Alabama’s response in the coming season will shape the narrative surrounding their program. Will they prove the doubters wrong and rise again, or will this season mark the beginning of a prolonged downturn? One thing is certain—when Alabama steps back onto the field, all eyes will be on them.
