UNEXPECTED: Alabama fired coach with Nick Saban

In September, Alabama will officially name its football field at Bryant-Denny Stadium as Nick Saban Field, following a unanimous approval by the university’s board. Saban, who led the Crimson Tide to six national championships, will be honored with signage recognizing his contributions. “We are humbled that The University of Alabama has honored us with the naming of Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium,” Saban stated. He acknowledged the success of the football program over the past 17 years as a team effort involving many student-athletes, coaches, and staff. Saban, who retired after the 2023 season with a college coaching record of 297-71-1, including a 206-29 record with Alabama, expressed his gratitude for the honor. He won nine out of his 11 SEC titles with Alabama and also had coaching stints at Toledo, Michigan State, and LSU, where he won a national title in 2003.

UA President Stuart R. Bell remarked, “Dedicating the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium as Saban Field is a fitting way to honor Coach Saban’s extraordinary contributions to The University of Alabama. Coach Saban and Ms. Terry have significantly enriched our community, and this recognition celebrates their lasting legacy. We are grateful to the Board of Trustees for bestowing this great honor.”