Kalen DeBoer described his first half as Alabama coach as “awesome” after the Crimson Tide led 42-0 against Western Kentucky heading into the locker room with Nick Saban looking on.

“It was awesome,” DeBoer told Crimson Tide Sports Network. “Proud of the guys. “Made some nice defensive takeaways early there, made some stops in the red zone.

“Proud of the way the boys bent over backwards and made it difficult for the opponent.

Jalen Milroe completed 4 of 6 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns. Two were to freshman Ryan Williams, who hauled in both passes thrown to him for 139 yards.

He did, however, point out areas that need improvement, citing communication on offense and substitutions. More specifically, according to ESPN, the communication between quarterback and center.

“Overall, I like the way the guys are playing,” he said. “Playing hard. Playing for each other. Playing fast. Making plays.”

The Tide mustered 354 yards of offensive prowess on just 20 plays in the first half, an average of more than 17 yards per play.

Meanwhile, the defense has limited Western Kentucky to just 131 yards and quarterback TJ Finley has thrown two interceptions, both to Alabama’s Keon Sabb.

Alabama hosts the second half kickoff. Follow coverage from AL.com.

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