Former Fresno State coach Kalen DeBoer to replace legendary Nick Saban at Alabama

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Less than three years after leaving Fresno State, Alabama is hiring Washington football coach Kalen DeBoer as Nick Saban's replacement.

The fast-rising DeBoer led the Huskies to a 14-1 record that included a Pac-12 championship before losing to No. 1 Michigan 34-13 in the national title game. He was named The Associated Press coach of the year.

Saban is retiring from coaching after winning seven national championships, including six with Alabama over the last 17 years.

"Following Coach Saban is an honor. He has been the standard for college football, and his success is unprecedented," DeBoer said in a news release. "I would not have left Washington for just any school. The chance to lead the football program at The University of Alabama is the opportunity of a lifetime.

In nine seasons as a head coach, DeBoer has won 104 game only losing 12.

During his time with the Bulldogs, DeBoer led the team to being nationally ranked as high as #18 and a 9-3 record in his lone full season.

DeBoer left Fresno State before coaching the team in the New Mexico Bowl.