The Alabama Crimson Tide football program demonstrated its dominance in college football for nearly two decades, largely due to the man who led the team: Nick Saban.
As Alabama’s head coach, Saban became a staple of the program, and the team’s sustained success reflected his leadership. So, how long did the legendary coach remain with the team? Here’s a look back at the impact of Saban’s long and storied career with the Crimson Tide.
Nick Saban’s Career at Alabama
Before taking over at Alabama, Nick Saban served as head coach at three schools: Toledo, Michigan State, and LSU. He won three conference titles and secured the 2003 BCS National Championship with the Tigers.
After a two-year stint as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach, Saban took over Alabama’s program in 2007. The team went 7-6 in his first season, including an Independence Bowl win. This would be the only season under Saban where they won 10 or fewer games.
Success came quickly for the Crimson Tide, with the team winning six national championships and achieving two undefeated seasons. Saban earned AP Coach of the Year in 2008 and was named SEC Coach of the Year four times during his tenure at Alabama.
By the end of the 2023 season, Saban had completed his 17th season with Alabama. Prior to joining the Crimson Tide, he had spent 11 seasons as a head coach in college football.
Saban’s overall career record stands at 292-70-1 across four schools over 28 years as head coach, with 12 conference championships and seven national titles to his name.
At 72, Saban’s career continued without signs of decline. Regarded as one of the best head coaches in college football history, his achievements with Alabama only added to his legacy.
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His Crimson Tide team lost their College Football Playoff semifinal game to eventual national champion Michigan Wolverines, and just a handful of days later, Saban retired from coaching.
Fans knew Saban wouldn’t stay down for long and now can be see gracing your televisions as a broadcaster and as a famed television commercial actor.
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