FSU's Mike Norvell becomes backup option for Alabama HC job amid rumors swirling around Washington's Kalen DeBoer

In the aftermath of Nick Saban's retirement announcement, Mike Norvell is being seen as a backup option if Washington's Kalen DeBoer doesn't become head coach at Crimson Tide.

While the coaching landscape seemed settled with Oregon's Dan Lanning as the leading candidate, his decision to stay put prompted a swift reshuffling of the deck.

Florida State's Norvell swiftly rose to prominence, transitioning from +1000 to +150 odds on betting platforms.

Mike Norvell's impressive coaching journey at FSU, culminating in a 13-1 campaign and an ACC Championship win, has caught the attention of Alabama decision-makers.

Despite Norvell's denial of earlier rumors linking him to Texas A&M, the Alabama vacancy has rekindled speculation around the accomplished coach.

With Washington's national championship setback and uncertainties surrounding DeBoer's potential move, the coaching chessboard remains dynamic.

Other candidates, such as Maryland's Mike Locksley and Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz, also linger in the conversation, adding layers of complexity to Alabama's decision-making process.

Kalen DeBoer, Mike Norvell and the Alabama coaching saga

The journey to find Nick Saban's successor has taken unexpected turns. Multiple sources indicate that Washington's head coach, Kalen DeBoer, is in contention for the prestigious Alabama head coaching position.

DeBoer has become one of the three 'serious contenders', alongside Florida State's Mike Norvell and Tide offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, according to FootballScoop.

The search is marked by interviews and assessments, with other candidates like Maryland's Mike Locksley and Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz also on the radar.

Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne is expected to make a swift decision by the end of the week.

As Mike Norvell's stock rises, and DeBoer remains a tantalizing but uncertain prospect, the Crimson Tide's choice will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of college football.

Kalen DeBoer's dilemma and contractual nuances

As Kalen DeBoer finds himself at the center of Alabama's coaching search, a web of contractual intricacies adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

DeBoer, who inherited a struggling Washington program and transformed it into a national championship contender, signed a two-year contract extension through 2028 in November.

However, negotiations for another extension have hit an impasse, and the coach is now faced with a $12 million buyout should he decide to depart for Alabama.

Despite DeBoer's stellar coaching credentials, questions arise about his readiness to step into the big shoes left by Nick Saban, especially considering his lack of experience in the SEC.

The looming decision, expected by the end of the week, carries implications not only for the future of the Alabama football program but also for the Huskies. The latter is grappling with the aftermath of their national championship defeat against Michigan.