In a recent appearance on The Joe Gaither Show, Alabama head coach Nick Saban was asked to select a favorite among the four Heisman Trophy winners he coached during his time in Tuscaloosa. Despite the immense talent and accolades earned by each of these players, Saban surprisingly chose just one as his personal favorite—marking a rare, direct insight into his preferences on the show.
Alabama has a rich history of Heisman Trophy winners, with Saban coaching four of them during his tenure: Mark Ingram (2009), Derrick Henry (2015), DeVonta Smith (2020), and Bryce Young (2021). All four are exceptional athletes who had standout careers with the Crimson Tide, leaving lasting marks not just in college football but on the sport as a whole. Yet, when asked to choose one player as his favorite, Saban pointed to DeVonta Smith, the wide receiver who won the Heisman in 2020.
Smith’s selection is telling, as it reveals a deep appreciation for a player who, despite his smaller stature compared to others, showcased remarkable skill and work ethic. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing just over 170 pounds, Smith was often overlooked in terms of physicality when compared to the more imposing figures like Henry or Ingram. However, it was Smith’s performance on the field—his ability to dominate against top-tier defenses, make spectacular catches, and exhibit an unparalleled sense of timing and football intelligence—that won Saban over.
One of the most iconic seasons in college football history, Smith’s 2020 Heisman campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. He caught 117 passes for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns, leading Alabama to an undefeated season and a national championship. Smith’s play in the College Football Playoff, especially in the National Championship Game where he racked up 12 receptions for 215 yards and three touchdowns against Ohio State, solidified his Heisman win and left a permanent imprint on college football.
In choosing Smith, Saban seemed to acknowledge the unique qualities that made him stand out, even in a roster full of future NFL stars. Smith’s relentless work ethic, his ability to perform under pressure, and his commitment to improving every day resonated deeply with Saban, who values the characteristics of a player just as much as their on-field accomplishments.
While Ingram, Henry, and Young all had tremendous seasons and are undoubtedly deserving of their Heisman recognition, Saban’s choice of Smith highlights the special connection he had with the wide receiver. Ingram’s toughness, Henry’s sheer dominance, and Young’s poise and leadership were all key components of Alabama’s success during those years. However, Smith’s ability to make the most out of every opportunity, despite being doubted by many early in his career, was something that Saban seemed to hold in especially high regard.
Ultimately, Saban’s decision to pick DeVonta Smith reflects more than just individual statistics or accolades. It speaks to the importance of the intangibles—those qualities that make a player not only a winner but also a symbol of the team-first mentality that has defined Saban’s Alabama program. While all four Heisman winners will forever be remembered as legends of college football, it’s clear that Smith’s resilience, skill, and heart earned him a special place in the heart of his head coach.
