Nick Saban Reveals Whether He’ll Pick Against Alabama on ESPN’s ‘College GameDay’

Despite retiring from coaching after the best run in college football history, former Alabama coach Nick Saban won’t have much off time. The seven-time national champion will join ESPN’s College GameDay starting in the 2024 season, when he’ll be asked to pick winners on a weekly basis—a scenario that could put him in a difficult position. 

During a press conference Monday in Birmingham to announce the winner of the Nick Saban Legacy Award, Saban was asked whether he’d ever pick against the Crimson Tide if he’s asked to pick one of Alabama’s games. He chose his words carefully. 

“I’ve tried to steer away from picking people,” Saban said. “I think I’m gonna have to do that now. I don’t know that you always have to pick the team you think is gonna win. You’re allowed to have a spiritual feeling about who do you like and who you want to win.” 

It sounds as if the legendary former Alabama coach is prepared to pick his former team even if his gut tells him otherwise. Only time will tell what direction Saban will go when he undoubtedly finds himself in that position.

Kalen DeBoer was hired as Saban’s replacement on Jan. 12. Saban called DeBoer an “outstanding choice” to guide the Tide.