Kalen DeBoer Erupts in Fiery Defense of Ty Simpson: “What’s Happening to Him Is a Crime Against Football”

In what became one of the most intense press conferences of his Alabama tenure, head coach Kalen DeBoer delivered a blistering defense of quarterback Ty Simpson on Monday, calling the wave of public criticism directed at the junior signal-caller “a crime against football” and urging fans to stand with the player who “has carried this program on his back.”

The remarks — emotional, pointed, and louder than anything DeBoer has said this season — sent a shockwave through the Alabama fanbase and national college-football media.

DeBoer Confronts the Narrative Head-On

The tension rose almost immediately when a reporter asked DeBoer about Simpson’s recent struggles and the criticism that followed Alabama’s latest loss.

DeBoer leaned forward, eyes sharpened, and delivered his opening strike.

“What’s happening to Ty Simpson is a crime against football,” he said.
“A blatant betrayal of what this sport is supposed to stand for.”

The room fell quiet as he continued.

“How can people be so cruel to a young man who shows up every single week, gives everything he has, never asks for attention, never blames anyone, and just tries to win for the Alabama Crimson Tide?”

Another reporter pressed him, asking whether the criticism was justified given Simpson’s turnovers.

DeBoer cut him off.

“You want to blame someone? Then blame all of us. Blame me. Blame the staff. Blame the system. Football is not a one-man game, and Ty should not be treated as a shield for everyone else’s frustration.”

A Coach’s Loyalty Laid Bare

When asked whether Simpson was still the right quarterback for Alabama moving forward, DeBoer didn’t hesitate.

He even let out a short, incredulous laugh.

“Not only is he the right quarterback — he’s one of the greatest quarterbacks I’ve ever coached. That’s not up for debate.”

He paused, then added:

“People should be standing behind him, not tearing him apart every time the team struggles.”

Simpson Reacts to His Coach’s Passionate Defense

Moments later, Simpson entered the room — clearly caught off guard when told what his coach had said.

A reporter asked him directly:

“Ty, what’s your reaction to Coach DeBoer calling the criticism toward you ‘a crime against football’?”

Simpson shook his head softly before answering.

“Honestly… it means the world,” he said.
“I know I need to play better. I’m not running from that. But having a coach who believes in me the way Coach DeBoer does — that’s something I don’t take lightly.”

Another reporter asked whether the constant online attacks have affected him.

Simpson paused, choosing his words carefully.

“I’m human. Of course it hits you. But I try to focus on my teammates, my coaches, and the people who actually see how hard we work.”

Teammates Step Up to Defend Their Quarterback

Wide receiver Isaiah Bond, seated beside him, quickly chimed in.

“If people want to criticize, they should criticize the whole offense. It’s never just Ty,” Bond said.
“We win together, we lose together. That’s how it works.”

Safety Malachi Moore added his perspective from the defensive side.

“People don’t see the hours Ty spends studying film,” Moore said.
“There were nights he didn’t leave the facility until 10 p.m. because he wanted to fix things. You can’t question that guy’s heart.”

DeBoer Sends One Final Message Before Leaving the Podium

Before exiting the press room, DeBoer turned back toward the microphones and delivered a final statement that set the tone for the rest of Alabama’s season.

“Let me make this clear: if anyone wants to keep attacking my quarterback, they’ll have to go through me first.”

He paused, letting the words hang in the air.

“And if you call yourself a fan of Alabama football, act like one. Support your players — especially when things get tough.”

What This Moment Means for Alabama

DeBoer’s fiery statement was more than just a defense of a player — it was a declaration of the culture he intends to build:

• Loyalty over blame.

• Unity over finger-pointing.

• Support over public shaming.

It also signals that Simpson remains firmly entrenched as Alabama’s QB1. DeBoer’s unwavering commitment suggests that the coaching staff believes Simpson can still grow into an elite leader — but only if protected from what the coach sees as unfair and harmful external attacks.

A Turning Point for the Tide?

Time will tell whether this passionate defense becomes a turning point for Simpson and the Crimson Tide. But one thing is clear: Alabama’s head coach has drawn a line in the sand.

In DeBoer’s words:

“This young man deserves respect. And he’s going to get it — starting today.”

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