Paul Finebaum Gives Two-Word Answer on Alabama's College Football Playoff Hopes

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 9:00 PM ET

The Alabama Crimson Tide did not qualify for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. They finished the season ranked No. 11 in the final CFP rankings. However, two conference champions were ranked below Alabama, which secured them automatic bids to the playoff. As a result, Alabama was the first team left out of contention.

Kalen DeBoer's first season as head coach ended with a disappointing 9-4 record, marking Alabama's worst performance since 2007. DeBoer took over after the retirement of legendary head coach Nick Saban, who stepped down following the 2023 season. To worsen the situation, Alabama suffered losses to t hree teams that each finished the year with five or more losses.

On "The Paul Finebaum Show," the SEC Network analyst was asked if the Crimson Tide would return to the playoffs in 2025. He answered without hesitation.

"Bank it," Finebaum said.

Paul Finebaum Reveals Why Alabama Will Return to the College Football Playoff

Finebaum has discussed the Crimson Tide's goal of returning to the playoffs this upcoming season. He believes it will be due to the hiring of offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb.

“I think if Alabama goes to the playoffs this year, and I think they will, the reason why they didn’t go last year was Grubb's decision to take the NFL job, instead of staying in Tuscaloosa,” Finebaum previously said. “I think he’s that important.”

Grubb initially decided to follow DeBoer to Alabama, but later changed his mind and opted for the offensive coordinator position with the Seattle Seahawks instead. As a result, Nick Sheridan was appointed as the offensive coordinator.

Ryan Grubb Has History of Developing Quarterbacks

The last college quarterback to work with Grubb as his offensive coordinator was Michael Penix Jr., who became a Heisman Trophy finalist and was selected in the NFL Draft's first round.

For this season, Ty Simpson is set to be the starting quarterback. Simpson, a former five-star prospect, beat out Austin Mack, who initially committed to Grubb and DeBoer at Washington before following DeBoer to Alabama, as well as Keelon Russell.

The challenge for these players is their lack of experience. Simpson has only thrown 50 passes in his career, totaling 381 yards. Mack has attempted just three passes, while Russell has yet to throw a pass.

Alabama's Preseason Ranking Heading Into the Season

Finebaum has expressed his belief that Alabama isn't receiving the respect it deserves and that the Crimson Tide should be ranked among the top four teams in the country. Alabama is positioned in the top four in two preseason rankings. Here are Alabama's preseason rankings: