Alabama Football: Tommy Tuberville talks sense about Saban
By Ronald Evans
Tommy Tuberville says Alabama football fans owe him a favor for UA hiring Nick Saban. He also had some interesting observations about his friend, Nick Saban.
Alabama football fans have long memories. Games lost decades ago recede slowly on our lifetime lists of “what ifs.” Being unable to forget makes it harder to forgive. That is the space Tommy Tuberville occupies in many of our minds.
We have no sympathy for the underhanded mauling of Tuberville when Auburn wanted him gone in favor of Bobby Petrino. We are not at fault for our lack of pity toward Tuberville. He is at fault. He did us wrong by defeating the Tide six straight times when we were at our most vulnerable.
What Alabama fan will ever forget this image?
Given Alabama football fans’ antipathy towards Tubs, it is shocking to discover common ground.
Tuberville was recently interviewed by Bo Mattingly and Tommy had much to say about Nick Saban. Here are some of those comments:
"“He is just getting started … talking to him at breakfast on Monday … he is fired up – he’s got as much energy now as he had 7-8 years ago.”"
When asked how to describe Saban, Tuberville was effusive in praise:
"“Nick is a CEO … he outworks everybody … a steamroller … relentless”"
Shortly after details of the new Saban contract were released Paul Finebaum said on ESPN that in his opinion, Saban will not work through the entire term of the new contract.
"“I think it is highly unlikely … I don’t think he is going to be here for an extended period of time … at some point I think he will say there is really nothing more that I can prove”"
Tuberville has a very different opinion regarding how long Nick will coach. When asked if Saban would continue through the extension until January 2025, he said:
"“he might go past it … it is in his blood” (Saban told Tuberville) “what else am I going to do”"
Let’s be clear, Paul Finebaum is an exceedingly bright man who shapes words for maximum exposure. He is good at what he does. We are inclined to believe he and Saban share a mutual respect.
That respect may not expand to friendship and relaxed candor. Tommy Tuberville calls Nick Saban a friend. Which relationship is more likely to have more insight into Saban?
None of us, not Finebaum or Tuberville or Nick or Miss Terry can see very far into the future. When the Alabama-Saban era will end will remain unknown until it ends.
The college football offseason is perfect for whimsical diversions. Consider this:
- Paul Bryant won 232 games at Alabama coaching 25 years
- Nick Saban has won 119 games at Alabama coaching 10 years
- Average Wins for Saban (last six years) is 12.7
- 9 more Saban-Alabama seasons at 12.5 wins per season = 113 more wins
- Saban 119 wins plus 113 more wins = 232 wins in an Alabama career
Yes, we know, our tether needs to be reined in before we drift into absurdity. But what symmetry it would be, for arguably the two greatest coaches in college football history – to both win 232 games at the same school.
Next: The All-Time Best Tide Football Players at each Position
Remember the 2008 dagger into Auburn hearts that basically ended Tuberville’s Auburn career. Here it is:
RTR Forever!