Alabama University’s football coach, Kalen DeBoer, confirmed that defensive back Malachi Moore will not be suspended following a late-game tantrum during a match against Vanderbilt. The outburst resulted in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty and included instances of Moore refusing to be substituted out of the game. Despite this, Moore is set to start the upcoming game against South Carolina.
After the incident, Moore, a fifth-year senior and team captain, issued a public apology via social media. Kane Wommack, the team’s defensive coordinator, shared that the decision to substitute Moore was taken to allow him a moment to regain his composure on the sidelines. Wommack admitted they might have exercised this decision at the wrong moment, but praised Moore for handling the subsequent situation responsibly.
Head coach DeBoer seconded Wommack’s assessment, describing the situation as having been resolved internally. He further praised Moore as being a cornerstone in keeping the Alabama team united during the recent leadership transition. He credited Moore and his fellow captains – Jalen Milroe, Tyler Booker and Deontae Lawson – for maintaining team morale ahead of the season.
Despite Moore’s actions, DeBoer emphasised to ‘Bama fans the significance Moore’s leadership and dedication to the team. He underscored Moore’s prompt response of taking responsibility for his actions, and his critical role in the team. DeBoer concluded by noting that although Moore had regrets, they have managed the situation internally.
During the same press conference, an ESPN report announced that Alabama player, Jehiem Oatis, intends to redshirt for the rest of the season and enter the transfer portal. Oatis had limited play this season and is not slated to return from his redshirt until he has two years of remaining eligibility.
Despite Oatis being a notable loss, Wommack stated that his focus would remain on the players who can contribute to Alabama’s victories. Oatis quietly struggled with residual injuries from 2022, which hampered his projected breakout year in 2023. Nonetheless, Alabama’s defensive line rotation is considerably deep, and the team is prepared to move forward.
