Nick Saban’s career is a masterclass in greatness, but even the most legendary coaches have their missteps. In a revealing interview on *The Pivot*, Saban shared the one decision that still lingers as a regret: leaving college football for the NFL.
“When I left LSU, that was probably the biggest professional mistake I ever made,” Saban admitted. His tenure with the Miami Dolphins wasn’t a failure—he enjoyed the challenge—but it taught him something crucial. “I realized I love college coaching more because you can really develop players in a way you can’t in pro ball.”
Looking back, Saban recalled his agent’s pointed question before taking the Dolphins job: Did he want to be remembered as the Bear Bryant of his era or chase the Vince Lombardi dream in the NFL? Despite wanting to emulate Bryant’s legacy, Saban took the NFL leap—and learned a valuable lesson.
Fortunately, that “mistake” led to redemption. Returning to college football with Alabama, Saban built an empire. Seven national championships—one at LSU, six at Alabama—cemented his status as the GOAT of college coaching. Along the way, he collected five SEC Coach of the Year honors, two AP Coach of the Year awards, and endless respect from the football world.
Now 73 and retired, Saban thrives in the media spotlight, offering insights from a career defined by dominance. His brief detour to the NFL wasn’t just a regret; it was a revelation that shaped the coach—and the legend—he would become.
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