Nick Saban is a name synonymous with SEC dominance, having built dynasties at Alabama and LSU. But long before the national titles and the legendary status, the seven-time champion was just a young defensive backs coach trying to make his mark in the Big Ten. From 1980 to 1981, Saban cut his coaching teeth under Earle Bruce at Ohio State, a stint that ended sooner than he would have liked.
Despite the abrupt end, Saban holds no grudges. In fact, he says he still has a deep affection for the Buckeyes and the university that gave him his first major coaching opportunity.
Nick Saban: 'I Actually Love Ohio State'
Appearing on the Pat McAfee Show this week, Saban reflected on his time in Columbus and the circumstances that led to his departure. He didn't shy away from the details, candidly admitting that he was let go and that he alone was to blame.
"I got fired when I was a defensive backs coach at Ohio State," Saban revealed. "I actually love Ohio State. I've always liked Ohio State, I loved it when I coached there. It's a great institution. It was my fault I got fired; I can't blame anybody else for that."
Saban's time at Ohio State placed him among a who's who of future head coaches who worked under Bruce, including Urban Meyer, Pete Carroll, Jim Tressel, and Mark Dantonio. That list alone speaks to the caliber of coaching talent that passed through Columbus during that era.
Saban Shuts Down Mario Cristobal's ACC Argument
The conversation on McAfee's show also veered into conference supremacy, with Saban addressing a familiar debate he has with Miami head coach Mario Cristobal. According to Saban, Cristobal is relentless in trying to convince him that the ACC is superior to the SEC—a notion Saban flatly rejects.
"He's always trying to convince me that the ACC is better than the SEC," Saban said. "The SEC has nine teams in the Preseason Top 25. That's all I know. It's a deep conference. I know it is."
While Saban acknowledged the Big Ten's rise, particularly with powerhouses like Ohio State and Oregon at the top, he remained steadfast in his belief that the SEC's depth is unmatched. "I know that the Big Ten is a really good conference and getting better when it comes to depth. It's really great at the top with Ohio State and Oregon," he added. "But, anyway, it is what it is. He's never gonna convince me. Never gonna convince me that the ACC is better than the SEC."
Saban's loyalty to the SEC is well-documented, but his fondness for Ohio State is a reminder that even the most bitter endings can leave behind lasting respect. As he continues his role as an analyst, Saban's insights remain as sharp as ever, whether he's dissecting conference strengths or reflecting on his own coaching journey.
For more on Saban's recent comments and reactions, check out his take on Ohio State's senior day scheduling and the ongoing debate over Pat McAfee's rise to fame.
