Halo

Remember, Bama, like LSU and other large institutions that make big money from athletic programs, uses a LOT of that 32 million to help fund academics. Research and research dependent departments like mathmatics, engineering, Sea Grant, petroleum research either make their own money or are so vital to the other they MUST continue.

Most academic colleges run deficits even after tuition. Bama, like LSU, is a modest tuition school because so much is made from grant programs and academics.

That 32 million is also part of funding the school. It may 8 million many be too much for the Alabama system board to approve as it would cut the budget too close.

But beyond all that.... Saban is a whore like the rest of us - he'll go where the money is IF he wants to. Same thing for Sean Payton, Tubby Tommerville, or whoever else. If Saban left for the NFL and failed, he'll have crack at the best college coaching job anywhere he wants if he decided to return.

That said, I hope he stays at Bama. A strong Bama football program ensures LSU will pump cash and energy in theirs year after year. Vice versa. Competition is good.

Beastmode

Unlike Pete Carroll, Saban had a rough time as an NFL coach and it's well documented, not only his record but also the testimony of those who played for him. He just wasn't good at it. The only way Saban goes back to the NFL is if there is a major scandal at Bama and that may not even be enough. I think it left a real bitter taste in his mouth because he likes the control and structure of college. I could be wrong but I don't see him ever going back.

mutineer10

As a Tide fan, of course I hope he retires here. But I won't hate on anybody for bettering himself, let alone a guy who's already brought us 2 National Titles and the very real possibility of a third in a month or so.

That said, I don't think going to the NFL would be "bettering himself," especially given his last foray. It also doesn't help if it's with the Browns. They are a perennial loser, and I dunno if even Saban could help that bunch.

SapperSaint

I don't care what he does.

Using his words:

"I'm not going anywhere. I love LSU and what we have built here. I'm a Tiger."

"I'm not going to coach Alabama.

"I'm not going to Cleveland"

He has a tendancy to not tell the truth.

Danno

What the hell did you expect him to say? "Yes, I'm considering job X but won't decide until I hear some numbers"?

The guy was asked daily about what he wanted to do. I'd have said the same damn thing to force the press to STFU already.

Can you name one single coach in football history that said "Yes, I'm probably gonna leave mid-season for job X"?

"F" the media.

SapperSaint

I think it's fine to say, that. Too a certain point. Then when the media continues to ask that question, you say, "I am tired of being asked that, next question."

Now, I will not lie on this. Saban was and is, one of the greatest coaches at LSU. The problem I have with him, is I feel like I was lied to and betrayed, as a fan. And not only does he leave when LSU is on the door step of making a dynasty for a sucky Miami team; he then comes back to college FB and coaches a rival in the SEC.

You and every other Bama fan can't sit there and tell me that after he won y'alls NC (his 1st with Bama), that if he did the same thing to Bama and reverse the rolls; y'all wouldn't hate his guts too.

Now I will admit the truth telling bit was a bit harsh and on the bitter side. So you will have to forgive me for that.

I can take my bias and put it aside and truly admit that Nick Saban is in the top 2 of greatest NCAA coaches.

However, I don't have to like it.

"We are number one. All others are number two, or lower."
-The Sphinx
http://blackandgold.com/groups/28-ou...tsman-s-corner

lee909

Ivan understand your feelings on this,nothing hurts more than feeling like you have been stabbed in the back,especially if that person goes on to succeed elsewhere.

stickman

I never begrudged Saban for leaving LSU. He wanted his shot at the NFL, he took it. It wasn't working, he took the truckload of money Bama was offering. And yes, he lied, but, that's what coaches do.