Finebaum highlighted that Nick Saban spent over an hour on the phone with each SEC head coach before the season began, demonstrating his dedication to being well-prepared. Finebaum noted that this commitment reflects Saban's passion for his new role. He also recognized Saban's talent for being on television.

Nick Saban could return to coaching at some point in the future, former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy says someone “very much in the know” has told him priva