The Impact of Hiring Ryan Grubb: How He Can Revamp Alabama’s Offense
For the fourth consecutive season, Alabama football will see a new face leading its offensive strategy. This time, it’s Ryan Grubb, who will step in as the offensive coordinator for the Crimson Tide in 2025, sources confirmed to AL.com on Sunday. Grubb’s appointment follows a series of short-lived tenures at the position, including Nick Sheridan in 2024, Tommy Rees in 2023, and Bill O’Brien in 2022. Given Alabama’s historic dominance in college football, this move could be a turning point in restoring the team’s offensive prowess.
Grubb’s hiring is particularly significant due to his established partnership with Alabama’s head coach, Kalen DeBoer. The duo previously found great success working together at Washington, where they built one of the most potent offenses in the nation. Their proven track record makes this reunion a logical decision, even if it prompts adjustments within Alabama’s offensive staff. Although there was no vacancy at the offensive coordinator position before this move, DeBoer seized the opportunity to bring back one of the best offensive minds in college football.
A Look at Grubb’s Offensive Success
Grubb’s offensive schemes have delivered impressive results in the past. Under his leadership, Washington ranked 12th in total offense (462.1 yards per game) and 13th in scoring (36 points per game) in 2023. The previous season, they were even more dominant, ranking second in total offense (515.8 yards per game) and seventh in scoring (39.7 points per game).
When DeBoer accepted the Alabama head coaching job, Grubb was initially expected to follow him to Tuscaloosa. However, he made a detour to the NFL, joining the Seattle Seahawks as their offensive coordinator. With Grubb’s departure, Alabama promoted tight ends coach Nick Sheridan to offensive coordinator, which led to underwhelming results. In 2024, Alabama’s offense ranked 42nd in total offense (410.2 yards per game) and 23rd in scoring (33.8 points per game)—a noticeable drop from the high-powered offenses the program is accustomed to.
Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ offense under Grubb finished 14th in total offense (332.2 yards per game) and 18th in scoring (22.1 points per game). While neither Alabama nor Seattle showcased elite offensive performances, the decline in production for both teams suggests that each coaching change had an impact. DeBoer’s decision to reunite with Grubb signals a return to a system that has consistently produced results.
The Challenges Ahead
Grubb and DeBoer have built successful offenses before, but Alabama’s unit faces several uncertainties heading into 2025. One of the biggest questions is at the quarterback position.
Who will be the starting quarterback?
Will the new starter be more consistent than Jalen Milroe in 2024?
Can the offense provide better support for the quarterback?
How will the running game evolve?
Can the offensive line take a step forward?
The answers to these questions will be critical to Alabama’s success next season. One of Grubb and DeBoer’s notable achievements is their ability to develop quarterbacks into NFL-caliber players. They played a significant role in the development of Michael Penix Jr. and Jake Haener, both of whom are now in the NFL. To return to the top of the college football ranks, they will need to work that same magic with Alabama’s next signal-caller.
Building a Balanced Attack
Beyond quarterback play, Grubb’s expertise extends to offensive line coaching—a crucial component of any high-powered offense. His experience at Sioux Falls, Eastern Michigan, and Fresno State gives him a well-rounded understanding of offensive schemes that emphasize both passing and rushing efficiency. His collaboration with offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic will be key to ensuring that Alabama’s front five can provide stability for the offense.
A strong offensive line, combined with consistent quarterback play, will allow Alabama to maximize its weapons. The team boasts an exciting receiving corps featuring Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard, and Isaiah Horton, along with the healthy return of Cole Adams. At running back, Jam Miller and Richard Young bring versatility and depth, making it imperative for Grubb to implement a system that leverages the run game to complement the passing attack.
The Road Ahead
This hiring couldn’t have come at a better time for Alabama. Grubb’s return to the college ranks gives the Crimson Tide an experienced, innovative offensive coordinator who already has chemistry with DeBoer. However, there is little time for celebration—Alabama’s offense requires immediate fine-tuning. The 2024 season exposed weaknesses that must be addressed quickly, and with spring practice on the horizon, the coaching staff will need to implement changes effectively.
If Grubb and DeBoer can replicate their past success, Alabama has the potential to reclaim its spot among the nation’s elite offenses. Their partnership has already proven it can produce dynamic, high-scoring units. Now, it’s time to bring that same energy to Tuscaloosa.
