Nick Saban communicated his concern with competitive edge at SEC Media Days. Whether you are one of the many cult like Saban followers or just a college football fan, you’ve undoubtedly seen or heard of Nick Saban’s brazenness with the press. He is known to speak bluntly and refuse to answer questions he does not like. Tuesday’s SEC Media Day was no different.
3 Million Dollars for Players and How This Affects Competitive Edge
When asked about NIL, Saban said that Alabama players received around 3 million dollars collectively. While he wants his players to flourish, Saban voiced his concern with how this money could affect competitive edge. Saban believes his players possibly received more NIL money than any other team. However, this money affects recruiting which in turn affects the quality of players colleges are able to recruit. Playing for Alabama is a no brainer for recruits, but what will this do to the college teams that do not receive notoriety? Saban is obviously in a good place, but he is concerned about how NIL deals affect college football overall.
Mega Conferences and Competitive Edge
While conferences such as the SEC are becoming powerhouses, others are dwindling. Nick Saban eagerly welcomed the announcement of Texas and Oklahoma’s move to the SEC. However, at SEC Media Day he gave caution to the result of these moves. The influence of teams in large conferences is undoubtedly a better recruitment pull for recruits. Large, influential conferences have a better edge on enrolling high profile players.
Saban: “I Love my Job. I Love it.“
Saban briefly addressed rumors at Tuesday’s SEC Media Day. It is obvious that Saban has the competitive edge in recruitment over the years. This is likely why “other coaches” are telling recruits that Saban is retiring soon. Saban says he has no plans of retirement. At 70 years old he is the second oldest coach in college football. Saban reassured the press that he loves his job. He supports his team on and off the field.
Jimbo Who?
Saban downplayed the Jimbo Fisher exchange when asked if the feud would affect this season’s game in Tuscaloosa. Saban assured the press the harbors no hard feelings toward Fisher. The games are about the players according to Saban. “I have no issues with Jimbo,” Saban reassured. We will know how the off-season feud affects the players, if at all, when the Aggies visit Tuscaloosa this fall.