IMO there is some sort of twisted loyalty behind Saban not making a change at dc before the year began or during the year when concerns have continually shown themselves. This is also applicable to our oc as of this current year.
While he may have persuaded or recommended for some assistants to look around, Saban is not one to openly fire assistants. Saban likes structure, continuity and tries to avoid distractions so normally he makes coaching changes he feels are not working out, ie major applewhite, or coaches that have accepted other jobs, in the off season, with the exception being kiffin. However, regarding these most recent hires to me he has been obscenely patient.
Saban specifically stated in an interview after all of the coaching turnover, rehab stints, that he was asking new hires to make a commitment and not just leave after a year. He understands the launchpad principle and he wants his assistants to be successful and advance. This is widely shown throughout the current landscape of college football, all you have to do is look at his coaching tree, but he also wants some stability from them not just stop here, coach a year or two so you can leave and get another job or promotion.
Therefore, IMO he has let this current situation with the oc and dc go on longer possibly due these reasons, ie. his wanting to be loyal, avoid bringing on new coaches again so soon, and or to honor a gentleman’s agreement.
Regardless it is very evident changes need to be made and especially at dc. With the exception of a very few players we play soft and our tackling, technique, schemes are abysmal at times. When kirby left pruitt did not really miss a beat and there was negligible drop off if any but since then it has been a struggle. Talent can hide flaws and weaknesses especially in coaching. Up to now we have been winning despite some atrocious undisciplined play and extremely subpar coaching, but like the saying goes keep playing with fire and you are going to get burned.
As far as those calling for him to step down, that is plain and simple deplorable and ridiculous. He is called the
by many for a reason and I have confidence that he will find a solution to right the ship. Even our bad years under Saban, with exception of 2007, would be banner, all worldly types of years for many programs.
Coach Saban IMO has more than earned pretty much a lifetime free pass with the entire University of Alabama and all of its fan bases. What he has done for the entire University and the positive impact he has generated and created throughout the university and state is immense. To think that some people question whether or not he should be fired or forced out after 2 tough losses, one at the end of regulation and the other a 2pt conversion in ot, also both games were on the road in two of the toughest environments to play in college football playing against two teams who are playing very well and ranked in the top 10, is truly amazing. We really are a spoiled rotten fan base and regretfully sometimes the bad side shows.
RTR
