Nick Saban doing more than TV by helping the Crimson Tide staff

Nick Saban's new role as an ESPN analyst made big headlines this week. His announced main duty will be joining College GameDay, and not as some have speculated, as a replacement for Lee Corso. When Corso does choose to retire, it is a safe bet that donning mascot headgear will not be taken over by Saban.

In the early weeks of his retirement, Nick Saban has been doing what many recent retirees do - play a lot of golf. There are great courses near his home on Florida's east coast. This past week the GOAT travelled across the country to play in the WM Phoenix Open.

Those who play golf will notice that Saban needed a hook, rather than just a draw, to keep that shot out of the crowd stands right of the hole. Doing a short interview while walking to the green, he said that his game is in pretty good shape.

Alabama football fans, ever seeking the next Alabama Crimson Tide championship, have been wondering about Nick's post-retirement role in Tuscaloosa. He has or is slated to have an office at Bryant-Denny, indicating a good setting to interact with recruits on their visits to the campus.

When Kalen DeBoer was hired the former Washington coach was quick to say he would call on Saban often. As DeBoer said, he would be a fool to not do so. Both DeBoer and Saban will have to balance a fine line for Saban's involvement. No head coach, wants his predecessor (much less CFB's GOAT) constantly looking over his shoulder. Nick Saban will understand that even a GOAT can become a too-hands-on advisor.

Alabama football insiders have said that new Bama Defensive Coordinator, Kane Wommack also wants Saban as an advisor. Of course, Wommack wants advice from a coach who has been college football's most respected defensive mind for decades.

Some Crimson Tide fans incorrectly assume Wommack's 4-2-5 defense is vastly different from what Saban ran in Tuscaloosa. It is similar in many ways. There are differences in terminology, but in Saban's last several seasons of coaching defense, he adapted in response to spread offenses. The 4-2-5 implemented by Wommack is believed to be well-suited to stopping spread attacks.

Instead of talking Jack and Sam and Star, Crimson Tide insiders claim Nick Saban has already worked to familiarize himself with Wommack's Wolf, Bandit, Stinger, and other terminology. It is impossible to imagine Wommack having a better advisor.