I get your point, but it's not that simple. I think we've seen plenty of juniors leave early with his blessing, so it isn't as though he's desperately clinging to them or anything (not saying you meant that). I would point to Urban Meyer as someone that talked some some guys into staying (he managed to keep all his QBs around last year, managed to get Tebow to stay as well) when it might not be in their best interest. The key is that Nick Saban seems to be good at keeping guys from making bad choices. I think the distinction needs to be made.Coach Saban is also finishing #1 in the nation in re-recruiting our juniors.
I get your point, but it's not that simple. I think we've seen plenty of juniors leave early with his blessing, so it isn't as though he's desperately clinging to them or anything (not saying you meant that). I would point to Urban Meyer as someone that talked some some guys into staying (he managed to keep all his QBs around last year, managed to get Tebow to stay as well) when it might not be in their best interest. The key is that Nick Saban seems to be good at keeping guys from making bad choices. I think the distinction needs to be made.
In other words, CA, good things still happen for those who delay their gratification
yep - earlier this draft season there was an article where A'shon said he and his family were thinking about him coming back, but after talking with Saban they decided for him to go ahead and declare. that's certainly going to carry a lot of weight every single time he's having that conversation with a junior about leaving or staying, because it's proof Saban will advise what he thinks is best for that player and not just selfishly try to sell them to stay. Not to say Saban might not miss a guy and advise them to stay and then the leave and do great (Kirkpatrick), but at least players will know Saban's being completely forthcoming about things.Two things I like:
1. There is no doubt in their minds that Coach Saban has their best interest in mind, and is going to give them good advice. There appears to me that there is only one (well maybe two) exception in that list. There is a great deal of trust displayed by the players in him.
2. Recruits and their parents can and do see this.