The second season of the Kalen DeBoer era in Alabama kicks off this weekend as the Crimson Tide travel to Tallahassee for a clash with Florida State.

Alabama is coming off a four-loss season for the first time since 2007, while Florida State is coming off its worst season in program history (2-10). With both programs looking to make a massive statement in the opening weekend of the college football season, the weather does not look like it is going to cooperate.

As of Wednesday night, thunderstorms and scattered rain are expected in the Tallahassee right at kick-off between the Crimson Tide and the Seminoles. Have no fear however, as Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer discussed preparing for these conditions on Wednesday night’s edition of ‘Hey Coach & The Kalen DeBoer Show.’

“You can ask the offensive skill guys in particular what that looks like,” DeBoer said. “Wet balls, balls that are wet with soap on them, anything to make it as slippery as possible so they’ve got to really focus. I’m trying to give them the worst case scenario of what it could be, but that’s part of what we’re doing and getting ready because that’s certainly a possibility.”

“It definitely has an impact. I don’t care if you’re gonna do it, but do it right in practice. Sometimes it can go not quite as well as you want.”

Young Alabama running backs will have to emerge in Miller’s absence

Unfortunately for Alabama, starting running back Jam Miller will miss its season opener after suffering a dislocated collarbone in mid-August. Miller’s veteran prowess would have been valuable in dealing with such conditions, but the Crimson Tide will instead have to roll with redshirt sophomore Richard Young and sophomore Daniel Hill in the backfield.

Young was the No. 63 ranked player in the Class of 2023 and will have a major opportunity to shine in Miller’s absence. In his two years with the program, he’s totaled 170 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 36 attempts. Hill was the No. 152 ranked player in the Class of 2024 and will also enjoy a big opportunity to make a name for himself. He totaled 61 yards and one touchdown on 21 rushes last season.

Kick-off between Alabama and Florida State on Aug. 30 is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET on ABC. The two historic programs have not met since 2017, where the Crimson Tide rolled the Seminoles 24-7 in what was a highly-anticipated season opener.