The excitement surrounding the SEC Championship is palpable, especially with two former assistants of the legendary Nick Saban going head-to-head. Kirby Smart of Georgia and Steve Sarkisian of Texas are set to clash for the league title, and you can bet that Saban will be watching closely. But beyond the game itself, there’s a fascinating dynamic at play among Saban’s former coaches that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.
Group Chats: A Window into Coaching Camaraderie
The group chats involving former Saban assistants have become quite the topic of conversation. These coaches, who once shared the sidelines under Saban’s watchful eye, maintain a lively connection through text messages. It’s a unique blend of competition and camaraderie, where they share insights, jokes, and, of course, a little friendly banter.
In a recent interview, Sarkisian shared some light-hearted details about these chats. “There’s multiple group chats,” he told Laura Rutledge on the SEC Championship coaches show. “You can probably guess the one guy who stokes the fire all the time. . . He might live in Oxford.”
Lane Kiffin: The Life of the Party
Sarkisian was clearly referring to Lane Kiffin, the head coach at Ole Miss. Kiffin is known for his vibrant social media presence, where he often showcases his humor and pokes fun at his fellow coaches. It seems that his playful spirit isn’t confined to Twitter; he brings that same energy to the group chats, where he’s the one stirring the pot and keeping the conversation lively.
Later in the interview, a fan question sparked a fun exchange between Sarkisian and Smart. They were asked what Christmas gift they would give to Kiffin. Although Smart hesitated, not wanting to offend his fellow coach, he eventually chose Kiffin and crafted a gift that perfectly encapsulated their group chat antics.
Smart’s Hilarious Gift Idea
“I think I would get Lane a flip phone with no texting allowed,” Smart quipped. “I would keep it where he couldn’t text [and] he had to call somebody. He doesn’t like doing that.” This playful jab at Kiffin’s texting habits perfectly illustrates the light-hearted nature of their interactions. It’s clear that the bond they share goes beyond just football strategy; it’s about friendship and shared experiences.
A Memorable Moment in 2020
The group chat gained national attention back in 2020 when then-Tennessee coach and former Alabama defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt received a text from Kiffin during a live radio show. This unexpected moment led to a question from Paul Finebaum, prompting Kiffin to confirm the existence of their chat. It was a humorous reminder of how these coaches keep in touch and the camaraderie that persists even in a highly competitive environment.
Saban’s Newfound Texting Habits
Interestingly, Saban himself has been getting more into texting since his retirement. Both Sarkisian and Smart joked about how frequent these messages have become. They shared that they’ve received texts from the GOAT himself, urging them to call him. It’s a testament to how the relationships formed during their time together continue to evolve, even as they pursue their own paths in coaching.
The Big Game Ahead
As the SEC Championship approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Georgia and Texas will face off at 4 p.m. ET on ABC, and all eyes will be on this thrilling matchup. Saban, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of both Smart and Sarkisian, will undoubtedly be watching with great interest.
The game is not just about the title; it’s a showcase of how Saban’s coaching tree has flourished. It’s a chance for these former assistants to prove their mettle and perhaps even outshine their mentor.
Looking Ahead
The SEC Championship is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of the relationships and rivalries that make college football so special. As Sarkisian, Smart, and Kiffin continue to navigate their coaching journeys, their group chats will remain a source of laughter and support.
So, as we gear up for this exciting showdown, let’s remember the camaraderie that exists behind the scenes. It’s a reminder that while the competition is fierce, the bonds formed in the world of college football are equally strong. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the spirit of competition and friendship will shine bright on the field this Saturday.
