With the 2024 college football season drawing to a close, the Ohio State Buckeyes clinched victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the CFP National Championship Game. Among the notable attendees was former Alabama Crimson Tide coach, Nick Saban, who was present in Atlanta, Georgia, as ESPN’s “College GameDay” aired its final show of the season from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Saban, who joined ESPN following his retirement after the 2023 college football season, has brought a wealth of unparalleled experience to the show. His impressive coaching career includes guiding Alabama to six national championships and nine SEC championships, making him one of the most esteemed minds in football.
Despite stepping away from coaching, Saban remains highly active. He has made recent appearances on “The Pat McAfee Show” and “The Pivot Podcast.” During his interview on “The Pivot Podcast,” hosted by Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor, Saban shared insights on various topics, including the possibility of returning to coaching and his relationship with his friend Deion Sanders. The conversation also delved into his favorite players to coach, a question that prompted Saban to reflect on his illustrious career.
When asked about his favorite players, Saban listed five individuals who left a lasting impression on him: “Julio [Jones] was great. Derrick Henry. Tua [Tagovailoa]. I always like Tua. Rolando McClain. And the other one I always liked was Reuben Foster.”
Wide receiver Julio Jones and linebacker Rolando McClain were key figures in Saban’s early tenure at Alabama, playing pivotal roles from 2008-2009 and helping secure Saban’s first championship with the Crimson Tide.
Running back and Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry, along with linebacker Reuben Foster, played under Saban from 2013-2015, contributing significantly to Alabama’s fourth national title during his era. Meanwhile, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s tenure from 2017-2019 was marked by remarkable performances that led to Alabama’s fifth national championship under Saban’s leadership.
Throughout his extensive coaching career at Alabama, Saban mentored numerous superstars, including four Heisman winners. However, these five players stood out to him for their exceptional talent and the lasting impact they had on him as a coach.
As the offseason begins, Saban continues to engage with the football community, sharing his expertise and stories from his celebrated career. His transition from the sidelines to the analyst’s chair has only deepened his connection to the sport, ensuring that his influence on college football endures.
