Rarely is Nick Saban not the most powerful figure in the room. Last Thursday night in Tuscaloosa, the legendary coach, who has clinched seven national championships, engaged a group of graduating seniors at the University of Alabama in a warm-up act for the President of the United States. With Bear Bryant no longer among us, Donald Trump stood as the only individual capable of momentarily overshadowing the G.O.A.T. in Alabama, prompting Saban to humorously acknowledge his secondary status by likening himself to an opening act for the Rolling Stones.
Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that Saban might actually be the mastermind behind the scenes, quietly influencing and steering powerful figures to serve his own objectives. While Saban may no longer be conquering the gridiron, he has transitioned his game to boardrooms, courtrooms, and hearing rooms, proving to be a force to be reckoned with in those arenas as well.
In Alabama, there exists a popular belief that the five most recognized individuals are, in order, the head coach at Alabama, the head coach at Auburn, the starting quarterbacks for Alabama and Auburn, and the governor. Bryant once navigated the challenges posed by Gov. George Wallace, and even briefly contemplated a venture into politics. Although former Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville successfully leveraged his wins over Alabama to secure a congressional seat, Saban has mostly kept his political views private. Despite his friendship with former Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin, Saban’s actions suggest a pragmatic approach to politics, focusing on achieving tangible outcomes rather than adhering to party lines.
Saban’s ability to harness opportunities is evident throughout his career, from his strategic shift in coaching philosophy to his successful advocacy for social issues and public health initiatives. By forging connections with influential figures, irrespective of their political affiliations, Saban has demonstrated an aptitude for driving meaningful change. His recent discussions with President Trump led to the formation of a White House committee on college sports, underscoring Saban’s knack for making things happen.
While Saban’s prowess on the football field is well-documented, his potential to bring order to the chaotic realm of college football has been a topic of discussion. As a respected authority in the sport, Saban has been suggested as a candidate to lead the way forward. By effectively navigating the complexities of both sports and politics, Saban continues to command attention and respect, solidifying his status as a formidable force in various spheres.
During an event last May, Paul Finebaum suggested to Saban, “You should become the czar of college football. If you agree, we can address many issues.” Saban hesitated initially, but it is evident that he is closely monitoring the sport’s trajectory. Speaking at a public forum with Sen. Ted Cruz, Saban stressed the need for rules to ensure competitive balance in college athletics, lamenting the current system where money dictates success rather than sportsmanship.
The debate over Saban’s stance on NIL and progress is secondary to the question of who will heed his advice. Clearly, he holds influence with the president. While the impact of potential executive actions or a White House commission on ongoing issues remains uncertain, it is undeniable that Saban continues to shape the course of college football.
Having transformed the college football landscape during his coaching tenure, Saban’s influence endures even in his current role. His determination to influence the sport’s direction remains steadfast, demonstrating his enduring impact.
