In a surprising twist this season, Nick Saban, the head coach of Alabama, has been showing a lighter side since joining ESPN’s College GameDay. Known for his stoic demeanor, Saban has been seen laughing and joking more often, even going viral for his candid language. This change in personality has brought a refreshing energy to the show, much to the delight of fans.
Nick Saban’s Viral Moments
One of the standout moments occurred during a special episode of College GameDay on Friday, where Saban shared some laughs with Indiana coach Curt Cignetti. Their playful banter included jokes about Cignetti’s ability to “talk shit,” which led to a notable reaction from CBS Sports’ Danny Kanell. Kanell, not impressed with the expletive-laden exchange, took to social media to express his nostalgia for a time when cursing on TV was less common.
I miss when people didn’t curse on TV
— Danny Kanell (@dannykanell) December 20, 2024
A Long-Standing Relationship
The camaraderie between Saban and Cignetti is rooted in a long-standing relationship that dates back to the early days of Saban’s coaching career. They worked together during Saban’s tenure at Alabama, and their bond extends to the days when Saban was under the mentorship of Cignetti’s father, Frank. This history adds depth to their playful exchanges, showcasing a mutual respect and understanding that transcends the typical coach-player dynamic.
Strength of Schedule Discussion
The conversation took a more serious turn when Cignetti addressed the skepticism surrounding Indiana’s strength of schedule. He confidently pointed out the ranked opponents the Hoosiers faced and how they performed against them. “I mean look: There’s a lot of skeptics, there’s a lot of doubters,” Cignetti stated. He highlighted a significant victory against Nebraska, who was ranked 25th in the Coaches Poll, emphasizing that they “beat their ass 56-7.” Cignetti also recalled a time when his team, Coastal Carolina, defeated a ranked opponent 47-7, asserting, “We don’t just beat Top 25 teams, we beat the shit out of them.”
Saban’s Insightful Rant
Following this exchange, Saban took the opportunity to share his thoughts on the pressure surrounding Ohio State’s coach, Ryan Day. Despite an impressive 66-10 record, Day faces scrutiny, particularly after four consecutive losses to Michigan. Saban’s message was clear: players should focus on their championship aspirations and ignore the negativity surrounding them.
“I used to tell the players all the time: Why do you care about what some guy puts on the internet who’s a fat guy, in his underwear, living in his mother’s basement? Why does that affect you?” Saban passionately stated. He urged both players and fans to concentrate on what they can control and to support their teams positively.
The Importance of Support
Saban further emphasized the need for a supportive environment, particularly for the Buckeyes. “If Ohio State wants to beat Michigan, they need to be positive about their coach and the players. There’s nobody who wants to beat ’em worse than the players and the coaches. That’s No. 1. No. 2: They have an opportunity to win the national championship. Everybody ought to be supporting the hell out of them so that they have the best opportunity to do it, and quit all this negative bullshit,” he declared.
Looking Ahead
As the college football season progresses, Saban’s transformation and candidness are refreshing. His ability to blend humor with serious insights demonstrates his multifaceted approach to coaching. Fans are eager to see how this new side of Saban will influence his team and the broader college football landscape. With his experience and wisdom, Saban continues to be a pivotal figure in the sport, reminding everyone of the importance of positivity and focus in the face of challenges.
With the upcoming matchups, including the highly anticipated clash between Notre Dame and Indiana, the excitement in college football is palpable. As coaches like Saban and Cignetti share their perspectives, fans can look forward to a thrilling season filled with memorable moments and passionate rivalries. The energy surrounding the sport is undeniable, and it’s clear that both players and coaches are ready to rise to the occasion.
