The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Florida State this past Saturday afternoon in Tuscaloosa and it took a while to get things going on both sides of the ball.

Fans who have now seen slow starts time and time again against inferior opponents expressed their displeasure during the first quarter with booing that could be heard on the broadcast, and clearly it could be heard by the team and coaching staff as well.

After things got going, the offense scored 50 points and Alabama won the game, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb sent a clear message during his press conference on Monday which accused the fans of “quitting” on the team despite their support through hours of rain delays.

Alabama Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb after hearing some first half "boo birds":

“I told the guys, I said, shoot, guys, if you'd have quit as fast as some of your fans. Shit, we wouldn't have won that game.” pic.twitter.com/5XujXBSqeD

— The Next Round (@NextRoundLive) September 21, 2026

Clearly, Grubb felt his statement went too far, because later that night through Yea Alabama, he made a rather unprecedented move by apologizing to the fanbase and expressing regret for his choice of words.

CRIMSON TIDE FAITHFUL

My passion for The University of Alabama football team runs deep…my commitment to this program is rivaled only by my brothers who I lock arms with every day. I will always back my players…always. I normally speak very directly and don't cut words. That…

— Yea Alabama (@yea_ala) September 22, 2026

“My passion for The University of Alabama football team runs deep…my commitment to this program is rivaled only by my brothers who I lock arms with every day,” Grubb said while addressing the Crimson Tide faithful.

“I will always back my players…always. I normally speak very directly and don’t cut words. That said – I should have worded my statement today more carefully. This is a special place with an incredible fanbase that all of us are thankful for. I have been spoiled by our great fans who are a sense of inspiration for our players. I let my loyalty and passion for my players affect my choice of words and offend some people that I certainly would have never intended to – the Crimson Tide faithful – and for that I apologize. I look forward to moving on and giving everyone something to cheer about! It’s a blessing to be here at Alabama. I truly appreciate everyone and am looking forward to a great Saturday. Again, my sincere apologies…and ROLL TIDE!!!

It’s safe to say that if the offense continues to produce at a high level, potentially even with a stronger start to a game, this will completely blow over and become a non-story.

Still, it feels notable that Grubb sent a direct message to the fanbase then chose to issue a statement regretting his choice of words.