A victory overshadowed by heartbreak

Rushed flights, heavy silence, and a son’s desperate race home

Simpson was immediately escorted by Alabama staff to a private area of the facility. Within minutes, plans were underway to fly him home. Several sources within the program said the quarterback refused media availability, speaking only once to head coach Kalen DeBoer, who placed a hand on his shoulder and told him:

“Football can wait. Family cannot.”

A community responds with love and unity

Inside the Alabama program: a locker room united

Kalen DeBoer’s response: leadership beyond football

The uncertain hours ahead

A moment bigger than the game