Nick Saban, widely recognized for his long and successful coaching career in college football, recently gained widespread admiration as a sportscaster on ESPN’s College GameDay show. From over four decades at the helm, including 27 as head coach himself, Saban has amassed an abundance of stories and insights which he freely shares with viewers; one such anecdote regarding playful interactions with players has even been confirmed by Derrick Henry – one of Saban’s illustrious protegees.
On The Dan Patrick Show, Henry brought up Coach Saban’s humorous side while recalling their time under him, specifically an amusing “Deez Nuts” joke he would make during practices. Henry explained how much Saban loved lightening up practices: he used to make jokes that involved some form of lighthearted banter about nuts: if we were practicing, “He used to tell them “Deez Nuts”, joke around every practice session,” Henry shared recalling an unusual side to someone often known for strict discipline: lighten up those practice sessions! Henry shared these memories that revealed yet another side to someone known for high levels of discipline aimed at producing results:-).
Derrick Henry flourished at Alabama, transforming from a promising talent when he joined in 2013 to an exceptional player by the end of his collegiate career in 2015. That year, Henry led in points scored, rushing attempts, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns, also securing the Heisman Trophy amongst other accolades. This period under Saban’s guidance marked Alabama’s rise as a dominant force in college football.
Derrick Henry Lauds Nick Saban as the ‘GOAT’
Saban led Alabama to 201-29 win-loss record, 6 national championships, and four Heisman Trophy wins over his 17 seasons as head coach, coaching four Heisman Trophy winners such as running back Mark Ingram, Derrick Henry, DeVonta Smith and quarterback Bryce Young – with Henry sending messages of thanks via social media such as his Instagram. Bryant-Denny Stadium field was officially renamed in Saban Field’s honor; former players like Henry sent messages of their thanks such as Henry’s statement in response which captured Saban’s profound effect both inside the stadium walls as he had on them individually as players; Henry said it encapsulating how Saban had an influence beyond their athletic abilities on them both.
With more than 61 Alabama players holding NFL contracts worth an estimated total of over $1.1 billion, Nick Saban’s legacy and influence will long outlive both collegiate and professional ranks of football. While fans and players will miss his presence on the sidelines, his tales and insights continue to entertain and educate football enthusiasts everywhere.