TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Watching Alabama roll past Wisconsin 38-14 on Saturday, you’d hardly guess the program was in its first season beyond the Nick Saban era. Quarterback Ty Simpson looked completely at ease in the pocket, picking apart the Badgers with precision throws to his receivers.

But at Alabama, dominance is the baseline expectation. A 24-point victory in a game where the Tide was already favored by 20 is business as usual. The win completes the home-and-home series with Wisconsin after last year’s 42-10 rout, and it may — just may — cool some of the heat on head coach Kalen DeBoer.

This matchup showcased Alabama at its best: explosive on offense and suffocating on defense. If anything, it suggests the Florida State stumble might have been more of an anomaly than a forecast of trouble ahead.

Simpson was outstanding, throwing for 382 yards and four touchdowns. Protected by a steady offensive line, he delivered strikes all afternoon, showing why he’s capable of threading the needle whenever given time.

Freshman sensation Ryan Williams returned from a concussion to electrify the crowd with a trick-play touchdown on the opening snap of the second half, then added a dazzling 41-yard score after juking multiple Wisconsin defenders.

Meanwhile, Alabama’s defense clamped down. Safety Bray Hubbard intercepted two passes, single-handedly halting Wisconsin drives, while the Badgers’ lone score through three quarters came on a kickoff return.

The comprehensive effort is sure to buy DeBoer some goodwill from fans still adjusting to life after Saban. But his challenge remains steep. He isn’t Bear Bryant or Nick Saban — two coaching giants immortalized in Alabama lore. Bryant had his trademark fedora, Saban his fiery tirades. DeBoer, by contrast, cuts a quieter figure on the sideline in a crimson cap and black hoodie, arms folded, expression steady.

For now, though, Saturday proved Alabama can still look like Alabama.