BREAKING NEWS:This Is Bigger Than Football-DeBoer Responds to Tornado Tragedy in Alabama

BREAKING NEWS: ‘This Is Bigger Than Football’ — DeBoer Responds to Tornado Tragedy in Alabama

 

Tuscaloosa, AL – May 8, 2025

 

In the wake of the devastating tornado outbreak that ripped through central Alabama last night, University of Alabama head football coach Kalen DeBoer delivered an emotional and heartfelt message to the people of his state, declaring, “This is bigger than football.”

 

Entire communities across central Alabama were left in ruins after a string of violent EF-4 and EF-5 tornadoes tore through the region, killing at least 48 people and injuring hundreds more. Among the hardest hit was the town of Willow Creek, where schools, homes, and businesses have been completely destroyed.

 

Speaking at a press conference from Bryant–Denny Stadium this morning, Coach DeBoer expressed his grief and pledged his support for the recovery efforts. “We woke up this morning not thinking about the next game or the next practice,” he said, pausing to collect himself. “We’re thinking about our neighbors, our families, our students — people who’ve lost everything.”

 

The Crimson Tide program has already begun organizing relief drives, with players and staff volunteering to collect supplies and assist in clean-up efforts. Team buses are being repurposed to deliver emergency goods to shelters in Montgomery, Selma, and surrounding areas.

 

“What happened last night was unimaginable,” DeBoer said. “And while we love this game and everything it stands for, today, football takes a back seat. Today, we stand with Alabama as one team, one community.”

 

University officials confirmed that Bryant–Denny Stadium will serve as a temporary hub for donations, blood drives, and emergency supplies in the coming days. Crimson Tide players were seen helping Red Cross workers unload trucks and coordinate with first responders early this morning.

 

Coach DeBoer ended his remarks with a call for unity: “Whether you cheer for Alabama or Auburn or anyone else, none of that matters right now. We’re all part of the same team — the team that lifts this state back up.”

 

As the state mourns and begins to rebuild, DeBoer’s words have resonated deeply across Alabama, reminding everyone that leadership isn’t confined to the sidelines.