The New York Times recently took another look at the University of Alabama’s decision to hire Nick Saban back in January 2007, exploring how that pivotal move shaped college football and transformed the program’s trajectory.
🏈 Why the NYT revisited the story
Alabama’s choice to bring in Saban followed six lackluster seasons under Mike Shula (including a 6–6 record in 2006), marking a major turning point. According to Saturday Down South, the hiring process took 38 daysfrom firing Shula to finalizing Saban’s dealwhich included clandestine meetings, private jets and intense negotiations . The Times highlights how the university orchestrated one of the most high-stakes coaching searches in college history.
The transformation under Saban
Immediate impact: Despite early skepticism—many criticized Alabama paying him what initially seemed an outsized salary—Alabama went from mediocrity to dominance. By February 2008, Alabama landed the nation’s #1 recruiting class, widely seen as the catalyst for its dynasty .
Saban’s leadership style: NYT and other analyses emphasize Saban’s relentless work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, film study, and adaptability. Once derided as an unrecruiting “workaholic,” he evolved by bringing in offensive guru Lane Kiffin in 2014—a move that helped Alabama embrace a modern, spread offense .
Ripple effects: His hire sparked a broader shift: other programs now chase the “Saban model” of discipline, recruiting, and adaptability. His coaching tree is massive—disciples like Kirby Smart at Georgia rose to prominence, while assistants like Kiffin, Sarkisian and Daboll built their own careers
Perspectives from the fanbase
A Reddit user recalled the initial reaction among Tide fans:
When we landed Saban I knew instantly that I was wrong … people went absolutely nuts. It had been an extremely difficult time for Alabama football and getting Saban was incredible.”
Media skeptics initially mocked the huge salary and doubted his long‑term commitment, but those voices quickly disappeared as Saban’s success mounted.
So what does the NYT say today?
The Times frames the hiring of Saban as one of college football’s most consequential decisions—a masterstroke that restored Alabama to elite status and redefined how top-tier programs operate. It emphasizes the blend of ambition, strategic hiring, massive spending, and bold leadership that spearheaded a new era of sustained excellence.
In summary: Revisiting the Saban hire, NYT sees it as more than just a coaching changeit was the start of a dynasty and a blueprint that reshaped the competitive landscape of college football
Let me know if you’d like the full NYT article or analysis on another aspect of Saban’s legacy!
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