After retiring from coaching after a whopping 50 years at the end of the 2023, just after suffering defeat in the CFP Semi Finals at the hands of eventual winners, Michigan, Nick Saban’s future was a murky grey.
Nick Saban’s Future Up In The Air Post Coaching
Unlike close friend and former colleague, Bill Belichick, who mutually agreed to part ways with the New England Patriots earlier in January, who still has coaching ambitions, despite being just a year Saban’s junior, it seems as if Saban was always planning to hoist up his coaching boots to enjoy his well-earned retirement.
However, that ‘retirement’ will not last long, as it has been just announced that Saban has agreed to join ESPN’s College GameDay, per Adam Schefter.
Former Alabama HC Nick Saban, one of the most accomplished and decorated coaches in college football history, is joining ESPN. Saban will work primarily as an analyst on the set of College GameDay, but also will appear on the NFL Draft and SEC Media Days coverage. pic.twitter.com/DCqSCiZ7ti
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2024
One Of The New Faces Of College GameDay
Nick Saban joins current analysts Kirk Herbstreit, Pat MacAfee, Lee Corso and Desmond Howard on the set of GameDay, and will undoubtedly contribute immensely with his unparalleled knowledge of the game, particularly at the collegiate level, and experience on the ‘other’ side of the pitch.
Will Saban Succeed On National TV?
Some argue that concerns may rise due to Nick Saban’s somewhat gruff, unbecoming exterior. But, just like counterpart Bill Belichick, who was electric on the set of the NFL 100, this authentic, trademark characteristic will, if anything, draw more viewers than a disingenuous, polished, upbeat persona from any other former coach or player.
Ultimately, no one can foresee what will happen, especially with something as volatile and unpredictable as television. However, it is safe to say that there will certainly be ‘rolling tide’ of new viewers (I apologize for that) curious to see Nick Saban’s presence in his new analyst form.
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