When Nick Saban announced he would be the next coach of the Crimson Tide, naysayers doubted his loyalty to the team. And with good cause. Saban spent five seasons as LSU’s head coach when he abruptly left for the NFL. While LSU fans have not forgotten, Alabama is thankful for Saban’s short stint with the Miami Dolphins.
LSU Tigers
Saban led the Tigers to their first National Championship since the 1950s. Tiger fans celebrated their coach and didn’t want to believe that he would leave Baton Rouge. Especially since Saban said publicly that he had no interest in the NFL. It was no secret that Miami was without a coach and had interest in Saban at the close of the 2004 season. The news broke that Saban had an agreement with the Dolphins on Christmas Day, 24 hours before he made it public.
Miami Dolphins
Even though the Tigers regretted losing the best coach they had in decades, fans couldn’t blame Saban for pursuing his dreams with the NFL. While it likely wasn’t status or money that drove Saban to the Dolphins, he is never one to back down from a challenge. Unfortunately, the challenge of coaching grown men making millions, was not the same as leading college player to become champions. Saban’s NFL stint lasted only two years despite his public profession that he would not return to the collegiate level.
Alabama Crimson Tide
Just as 2007 began, Saban landed at Tuscaloosa County Airport to announce that he would join the Crimson Tide. Saban was met by droves of fans, and he has not disappointed. As he prepares for the 2022 season, Saban’s 15th year as the Alabama head coach, rumors of Saban’s prelude to a discussion with ESPN after the kick six loss to Auburn has surfaced.
Saban’s Intent to Leave
It seems that at the end of every season, someone close to the Tide entertains the idea of Saban’s departure. While there is no doubt that every season is closer to his last, it seems that Saban has found where he wants to be for the long haul. Saban’s loyal despite his past with LSU and Dolphins.
Perhaps the Saban cult should be thankful for his time at LSU and short stint with the Miami Dolphins. Like many of us with our own career path(s), this was Saban’s opportunity to play the field. Saban’s first National Championship at LSU, and his run with the NFL, allowed him to sew his wild oats. Saban was finally ready to settle down. I am so thankful it was with my alma mater, The University of Alabama.