Kalen DeBoer on Alabama's win after wild South Carolina rally: 'I'm proud of these guys'

It wasn't pretty. In fact, it was ugly, and No. 7 Alabama continued to give South Carolina a boost Saturday before the Crimson Tide cruised to a 27-25 victory in a wild game in Tuscaloosa.

“We just talk so much about finding a way to win,” Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said immediately after the game. “The ball didn’t go our way. But when you find a way to win with your back against the wall, like the last trip there, I’m proud of those guys.”

The Tide suffered a shocking 40-35 loss to Vanderbilt in Nashville a week ago.

“It was a week where they really stuck together, had the attitude and came out,” DeBoer said of the Tide. “I think South Carolina is a very good football team. We just persevered through the ups and downs of the game.”

Jalen Milroe, who ran for two scores but also threw two interceptions, hit Geramie Bernar for a 33-yard touchdown with 1:54 to play, giving the Tide a 27-19 lead.

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However, the Gamecocks scored a touchdown with less than a minute left but failed to convert the 2-point conversion. Shane Beamer's team managed to breathe new life with the onside kick, but a final lob was intercepted.

DeBoer said he was proud of his leader, but also of his defense.

“They also caused a few turnovers,” he said of the defense. “That is crucial. Short field right after the interception. There are five points they didn't have on the scoreboard. They continued to fight. I’m proud of her.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard daily from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile app.