The backstory of If they aint wearin Crimson from Alabama footballs Malachi Moore [Video]

The phrase didn’t need much to become a rallying cry. Just a few days, a legendary head coach’s retirement and the threat of significant roster shakeup for Alabama football.

Then “If they ain’t wearin’ Crimson” took flight.

Its ascension began that one unforgettable week in January. The phrase was part of defensive back Malachi Moore’s video announcing his return for one more season. He posted that on social media Tuesday, Jan. 9. The next day, Nick Saban retired.

That Friday, Kalen DeBoer became coach. Meanwhile, roster turnover began. Within a week of Saban’s retirement, eight new players entered the transfer portal, including Isaiah Bond, Trey Amos and Caleb Downs.

But as some players departed, others chose to stay.

“In DeBoer I trust and if you ain’t wearing CRIMSON … yall know the rest,” defensive back DeVonta Smith posted to X on Jan. 15.

The phrase’s origin dates back years prior, but never registered like it did in January. As other …