Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban is joining the College GameDay program, and he recently commented on whether he will be picking Alabama to win on air.
Saban retired earlier this offseason, but his blood still runs crimson. He is extremely loyal to the program and is even remaining an advisor in Tuscaloosa, but does that loyalty extend beyond the duties of his new role on ESPN’s flagship show?
Will Nick Saban Pick Alabama on College GameDay?
At a recent event ceremony, the legendary head coach was asked if he would be picking the Tide when he takes up the analyst role on college football’s most famous build-up show.
Speaking at the Nick Saban Legacy Awards in Birmingham, Alabama, on Monday, February 19, the legendary head coach unexpectedly divulged who he would be picking on College GameDay.
Coming to the end of a speech — in which Saban spoke about the future of college football and his love for coaching and teaching — the retired head coach reinforced his love for Alabama football.
As Saban was signing off, he let slip that he would be picking Alabama on the College GameDay set.
“It’s something I’m going to miss, those relationships with players. But we are Alabama. So, all you Alabama folks out there, we’re Alabama. And I’m going to take Alabama every chance I get,” Saban said.
The pregame show is famous for its game picks, with Lee Corso wearing mascot headgear to signify his selection in the biggest game of the day.
But with coach Saban joining the illustrious program, we should have no doubts about where his allegiances lie.
The greatest college head coach of all time also reinforced his thoughts when he addressed the media at the award ceremony, where he was asked about picking Alabama on set.
Saban didn’t pretend to have any impartiality or hide the fact that he would be picking the Crimson Tide when he could.
“You know, I’ve tried to steer away from picking people. I think I’m going to have to do that now,” Saban said.
“But I don’t know that you always have to pick the team that you think is going to win. You know, you’re allowed to have a spiritual feeling about who you like and who you want to win. So, I think it will be a lot of fun though.”
MORE: 2024 College Football Realignment
We don’t yet know if or when College GameDay will visit Bryant-Denny Stadium during the 2024 season. But, with several high-profile clashes on Alabama’s 2024 schedule, Saban is bound to head home and pick his beloved Tide.
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