Nick Saban has an issue with the head coaching hiring cycle

Jason Jones

Nick Saban has an issue with the head coaching hiring cycle image

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban is not a fan of the current college football coaching chaos. On last Saturday’s ESPN College Football Gameday Saban voiced his concern for the players.

The one aspect he believes is getting lost amid various coaching rumors is the players. There also seems to be a randomness to these dates and windows. 

"Everybody should be thinking about the players," Saban said. "Players should be able to play for their coach for the entire season. Players shouldn't be penalized if a coach leaves, because the committee has the opportunity, if a player or coach doesn't participate, they can sink you in the rankings." 

Saban also hinted at a one-line idea that should be considered for most aspects that affect the football vs academic schedule. Saban said, “The NCAA should match the academic calendar with the football calendar”. Saban brings up an interesting point. One that works for coaching hires as well as the transfer portal window.

College football currently has eleven head coaching vacancies, after James Franklin signed on to coach Virginia Tech. Lane Kiffin’s name seems to be associated with almost every current vacancy. Most of the online chatter revolving around Ole Miss, LSU or Florida.

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss gave Saban’s take some life when he showed support for his coach, despite constant rumors about him leaving for another program.

Saban has also suggested according to Bleacher Report, that he also believes the NCAA should eliminate early signing day. Further suggesting that Saban’s take is applicable in at least three different areas. Line up the academic and football calendars works for coaching hires, transfer portal windows and the signing day schedule.

There is virtually no benefit to having any of those decisions due prior to the end of the college football season. The coaching carousel is a distraction. Players opting out of bowl games in favor of transferring is not good for the game. Even early signing day prior to the offseason has always seemed counterproductive. 

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Editorial Team