CFB Insider echoes Nick Saban's biggest concern for Alabama in 2024, and it's not Jalen Milroe

Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has been turning heads since the SEC Media Day with even hard-to-impress CFB insider Paul Finebaum noticing his progress. Finebaum, always a keen observer, believes Milroe has what it takes to be a Heisman finalist and lead the Crimson Tide to the playoffs.

While some fans and analysts think that Milroe might be the one to hold Alabama back this season, Finebaum sees it the other way around. He identified a major concern for Alabama that isn't tied to their quarterback.

“The problem I have with Alabama is not Jalen Milroe. It’s the defense,” he said. “The secondary is very thin and that’s the key to winning big games in the end.”

Finebaum's sentiment mirrors former Alabama coach Nick Saban’s comments during SEC Media Days, where he expressed concerns about the secondary while affirming his belief in Jalen Milroe and the Alabama team.

The ESPN analyst went further, suggesting that this Alabama team lacks the overall talent to secure the national championship, despite being playoff contenders. Adding to the uncertainty is the arrival of new head coach Kalen DeBoer.

The former Washington coach led the Huskies to the national championship game in 2023, but Finebaum believes Alabama’s defensive issues under an offensive-minded coach will hinder their national title aspirations.

Jalen Milroe believes in Kalen DeBoer's ability to lead Alabama

Kalen DeBoer has found a fan in Milroe as he prepares to maintain Alabama’s glory days in college football. Since DeBoer's appointment, fans have noticed Milroe's enhanced leadership under his coaching style.

During an interview with SB Nation, Milroe praised DeBoer's approach:

“I enjoy being around him beyond the coaching. He’s done a really good job of just getting to know the players," Milroe said. "Everyone has built a relationship with Coach DeBoer.”

The 21-year-old QB raved about DeBoer's accessibility, noting that all players have his phone number and can communicate with him anytime.

“He also has a room by his office where players can sit and have downtime or talk to him whenever they want," he added.

This open-door policy has created a supportive environment for the team, with Milroe excited to work under DeBoer, an offensive mastermind.