Full History Of Nick Saban In Timeline From 1900

1900: Historical Context of Alabama Football

The year 1900 serves as a historical marker in the context of Alabama Crimson Tide football, highlighting the program's long and storied tradition.

1908: Nick Saban's Grandfather Emigrates to the United States

In 1908, Nick Saban's grandfather, Stanko Saban, emigrated from Gospić, Croatia, to Portland, Oregon at the age of 13.

1922: Alabama Travels to Austin

In 1922, Alabama traveled to Austin, Texas, for the first time since 1922 to play the University of Texas.

1946: Alabama's First Rose Bowl Appearance and Win

In 1946, Alabama made their first appearance in the Rose Bowl, securing their first victory in the prestigious game.

October 31, 1951: Birth of Nick Saban

On October 31, 1951, Nick Saban was born in Fairmont, West Virginia.

1958: Previous LSU Tigers' Season Win Record

In 1958, the LSU Tigers set a single-season win record with 11 victories. This record stood until 2003 when Nick Saban's LSU team surpassed it with a 13-win season, culminating in a national championship.

1962: Record-Breaking Win Against Auburn

In 1962, Alabama achieved their largest margin of victory over Auburn since 1962.

1965: Michigan State Football Achieves Most Wins Since 1965

The 1999 season was a historic one for Michigan State University's football team, as they achieved their highest number of wins in a single season since 1965.

1966: Alabama's Last Orange Bowl Victory

Prior to a particular game, Alabama's last victory in the Orange Bowl occurred in 1966.

1966: Michigan State Football Achieves Highest Ranking Since 1966

The 1999 season saw Michigan State University's football team reach its highest ranking since the 1966 season.

1968: Nick Saban Wins State Championship

In 1968, Nick Saban played quarterback for Monongah High School and led his team to a state championship in West Virginia.

1968: LSU Wins First Sugar Bowl Since 1968

The Louisiana State University Tigers' victory in the 2002 Sugar Bowl marked their first win in this prestigious bowl game since 1968.

May 4, 1970: Nick Saban Narrowly Avoids Kent State Shootings

On May 4, 1970, Nick Saban and a roommate narrowly avoided being caught in the Kent State shootings because they decided to eat lunch before heading to the rally area.

December 18, 1971: Nick Saban Marries Terry Constable

On December 18, 1971, Nick Saban married Terry Constable.

1971: Alabama Ties Record for Consecutive Wins over Tennessee

Alabama's win against Tenessee in 2017 marked their 11th consecutive victory, tying a record set between 1971 and 1981, highlighting their long-standing dominance in the rivalry.

1972: Joining the Kent State Coaching Staff

After graduating from Kent State in 1972, Nick Saban began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Kent State under Don James.

1973: Undefeated Regular Seasons

In 1973 and 1974, Alabama achieved the feat of finishing the regular season undefeated in consecutive years.

1973: Nick Saban Graduates from Kent State University

In 1973, Nick Saban graduated from Kent State University with a bachelor's degree in business.

1974: Undefeated Regular Seasons

In 1973 and 1974, Alabama achieved the feat of finishing the regular season undefeated in consecutive years.

1975: Nick Saban Earns Master's Degree, Father Passes Away

In 1975, Nick Saban earned his master's degree in sports administration from Kent State University. Sadly, during that same year, his father passed away.

1977: Alabama's First SEC Three-Peat Since 1977-1979

Alabama's 2016 SEC Championship victory marked their first three-peat since the 1977-1979 seasons, showcasing a level of dominance not seen in decades.

1977: Saban Ties Bear Bryant's Record

In 1977, Nick Saban achieved his fourth consecutive 10-win season, equaling the record set by Bear Bryant from 1977 to 1980.

1977: Nick Saban Begins Coaching Career at Syracuse University

In 1977, Nick Saban began his coaching career as an assistant coach at Syracuse University.

1978: Alabama Faces Missouri for the First Time as Conference Opponents

In 1978, Alabama played against Missouri for the first time as conference opponents in a game held in Columbia, Missouri.

1978: Alabama Ranked No. 1 for First Time Since 1978

In 1978, Alabama started the season ranked No. 1 for the first time since 1978.

1978: Nick Saban Begins First Stint as Assistant Coach at West Virginia University

In 1978, Nick Saban started his first period as an assistant coach at West Virginia University.

1979: Alabama's First SEC Three-Peat Since 1977-1979

Alabama's 2016 SEC Championship victory marked their first three-peat since the 1977-1979 seasons, showcasing a level of dominance not seen in decades.

1979: Record-Breaking Victory for Alabama

In 1979, Alabama achieved their highest score since 1979, defeating Georgia State 63-7.

1979: Nick Saban Continues as Assistant Coach at West Virginia University

In 1979, Nick Saban continued his role as an assistant coach at West Virginia University.

1979: Alabama's Highest Scoring Game Since 1979

In 2017, Alabama achieved its highest scoring game since 1979, putting up an impressive 66 points against Ole Miss, signifying a return to offensive firepower.

1980: Alabama Achieves Back-to-Back Shutouts

For the first time since 1980, the Alabama Crimson Tide achieved consecutive shutouts against conference opponents during the 1980 season.

1980: Saban Ties Bear Bryant's Record

In 1980, Nick Saban achieved his fourth consecutive 10-win season, equaling the record set by Bear Bryant from 1977 to 1980.

1980: Nick Saban Begins Coaching at Ohio State University

In 1980, Nick Saban embarked on his coaching journey at Ohio State University.

1980: Alabama's Last No. 1 Ranking Before Saban

In 1980, the Alabama Crimson Tide achieved the No. 1 ranking during the regular season. This accomplishment highlighted the program's historical success and the significance of Nick Saban leading them back to the top spot for the first time since that season.

1981: Alabama Ties Record for Consecutive Wins over Tennessee

Alabama's win against Tenessee in 2017 marked their 11th consecutive victory, tying a record set between 1971 and 1981, highlighting their long-standing dominance in the rivalry.

1981: Bear Bryant Defeats Auburn Four Years in a Row

In 1981, Bear Bryant became the first Alabama coach to defeat Auburn four years in a row.

1981: Nick Saban Continues Coaching at Ohio State University

In 1981, Nick Saban remained at Ohio State University, continuing his coaching tenure.

1982: Nick Saban and Bill Belichick Meet

Bill Belichick and Nick Saban became friends after meeting in 1982.

1982: Nick Saban Coaches at The United States Naval Academy

In 1982, Nick Saban took on a coaching position at the United States Naval Academy.

1982: Working with Steve Belichick at Navy

In 1982, Nick Saban worked alongside Steve Belichick, Bill Belichick's father, as part of the coaching staff at Navy.

1983: Nick Saban Begins Coaching at Michigan State University

In 1983, Nick Saban commenced his coaching career at Michigan State University.

1985: Alabama's First Meeting with USC Since 1985 Aloha Bowl

In 2016, Alabama faced USC in their first encounter since the 1985 Aloha Bowl, marking a significant time gap between matchups for the two teams.

1986: LSU Wins First Outright SEC Championship Since 1986

The 2001 SEC Championship marked the first outright SEC title for Louisiana State University since 1986, a testament to the team's resurgence.

1986: Alabama's First Meeting With Washington Since 1986 Sun Bowl

The 2016 Peach Bowl marked Alabama's first game against Washington since the 1986 Sun Bowl, signifying a rare matchup between the two programs.

1987: Nick Saban Concludes First Coaching Stint at Michigan State University

In 1987, Nick Saban concluded his initial coaching period at Michigan State University.

1987: Nick Saban Joins Houston Oilers

In 1987, after being passed over for the head coaching position at Kent State, Nick Saban was hired as an assistant coach for the Houston Oilers in the National Football League.

1988: University of Toledo Football Goes 6-5

In 1988, the University of Toledo Rockets football team finished their season with a 6-5 record.

December 22, 1989: Nick Saban Becomes Head Coach at University of Toledo

On December 22, 1989, Nick Saban was hired as the head coach at the University of Toledo.

1989: Alabama Defeats Penn State

In 1989, Alabama traveled to Penn State for the first time since 1989, securing a victory against the Nittany Lions.

1990: Alabama Defeats Penn State

In 1990, Alabama faced and defeated Penn State for the first time since 1990.

1990: Nick Saban Leads Toledo to Co-Championship

In 1990, Nick Saban led the Toledo Rockets to a 9-2 season, making them co-champions of the Mid-American Conference.

1990: Alabama vs Cincinnati Rematch

In 1990, Nick Saban's Alabama team had their first meeting with Cincinnati.

1990: Last Winning Season for Michigan State Football Under George Perles

The 1990 season marked the last winning season for Michigan State University's football team under the leadership of coach George Perles.

1990: Alabama's First Three-Peat Win Over Auburn Since 1990-1992

The 2016 Iron Bowl saw Alabama achieve their first three-peat victory over Auburn since the 1990-1992 seasons, underscoring their recent dominance in the rivalry.

1992: Alabama's First National Championship Since 1992

The 2010 BCS National Championship was Alabama's first since 1992.

1992: Alabama's First Three-Peat Win Over Auburn Since 1990-1992

The 2016 Iron Bowl saw Alabama achieve their first three-peat victory over Auburn since the 1990-1992 seasons, underscoring their recent dominance in the rivalry.

1993: Alabama vs Miami Rematch

In 1993, Nick Saban's Alabama team played against Miami in a rematch of the 1993 Sugar Bowl.

1994: Nick Saban Coaches Cleveland Browns' Top-Ranked Defense

In 1994, Nick Saban contributed to the Cleveland Browns having the best defense in the NFL in terms of points allowed, a testament to his coaching skills.

1994: Alabama's Last Undefeated Regular Season

The 1994 season marked the last time the Alabama Crimson Tide achieved an undefeated regular season before Nick Saban accomplished the feat in 2008. This accomplishment highlighted the significance of Saban's impact on the program's return to prominence.

1995: Nick Saban Returns to Coach at Michigan State

In 1995, Nick Saban returned to Michigan State University to take on the role of head coach.

1995: Nick Saban's First Season Coaching at Michigan State

The 1995 season marked the beginning of Nick Saban's second stint as the head coach for Michigan State University's football team.

1997: Nick Saban's Third Season Coaching at Michigan State

The 1997 season was Nick Saban's third consecutive season leading Michigan State University's football team.

November 7, 1998: Michigan State Upsets No. 1 Ohio State

On November 7, 1998, the Michigan State Spartans, under Nick Saban's guidance, pulled off a stunning 28-24 upset victory against the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium.

November 1999: Nick Saban Named Head Coach of LSU

In November 1999, Nick Saban was appointed as the 31st head football coach for Louisiana State University, marking a significant moment in his coaching career.

1999: Alabama Wins SEC Western Division Championship

In 1999, Alabama clinched its first SEC Western Division championship since 1999.

1999: Nick Saban Departs Michigan State for LSU

In 1999, Nick Saban made the significant decision to leave his position as head coach at Michigan State University to take on the same role at Louisiana State University.

1999: Alabama's First SEC Title Since 1999

The 2009 SEC Championship was Alabama's first since 1999.

2000: Alabama Defeats Michigan in Season Opener

In 2000, Alabama played their first game against Michigan since the Orange Bowl, emerging victorious in a game held at Cowboys Stadium.

2000: Nick Saban's First Season Coaching at LSU

The 2000 season marked Nick Saban's first year as the head coach of the LSU Tigers.

2001: Nick Saban Leads LSU to SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl Victory

In 2001, Nick Saban led the LSU Tigers to an impressive 10-3 record, culminating in an SEC Championship win and a triumphant victory at the Sugar Bowl.

2001: Alabama's First Victory over Auburn Since 2001

The 2008 game marked Alabama's first victory over Auburn since the 2001 season.

2002: LSU Tigers Football Season

In 2002, the LSU Tigers, coached by Nick Saban, had a season of highs and lows. They opened with a disappointing loss to Virginia Tech, then rallied to win six consecutive games. However, quarterback Matt Mauck's mid-season injury proved costly. The Tigers lost four of their last six games, including a heartbreaker to Arkansas that dashed their SEC Championship hopes. Their season concluded with an 8-5 record after a Cotton Bowl Classic loss to Texas.

2002: LSU Wins Sugar Bowl

In 2002, the LSU Tigers, under Nick Saban's leadership, emerged victorious in the Sugar Bowl.

2003: Nick Saban's First National Championship

In 2003, Nick Saban secured his first national championship as the head coach of the LSU Tigers, leading them to victory in the BCS National Championship.

2003: LSU Tigers' National Championship Season

The 2003 LSU Tigers achieved a historic season, culminating in a BCS National Championship. They started strong, securing five wins, including a victory against the defending SEC champions, the Georgia Bulldogs. Despite a setback against Florida, the Tigers remained undefeated for the rest of the regular season. Their victory against the Arkansas Razorbacks secured the SEC West title, followed by a dominant win over Georgia in the SEC Championship game. Ranked No. 2, they triumphed over the No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners in the Sugar Bowl, clinching the BCS National Championship with a 13-1 record, setting a new single-season win record for LSU, surpassing the 11 wins set in 1958.

December 25, 2004: Nick Saban Joins the Miami Dolphins

On December 25, 2004, Nick Saban officially became the sixth head coach in the history of the Miami Dolphins.

2004: LSU Tigers' Final Season Under Saban

In 2004, Nick Saban's final season with the LSU Tigers ended with a 9-3 record. The team faced setbacks, including a narrow loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Capital One Bowl and defeats against Auburn and Georgia. Following the season, Saban made a significant career move, leaving LSU to take on the head coaching position for the NFL's Miami Dolphins.

2005: Distant Cousins?

In 2005, an article referred to Nick Saban and another football coach Lou Saban as "distant cousins." While Lou's widow later suggested they might have been second cousins, their families deny any relation.

2005: Saban's First Season with the Dolphins

Nick Saban's inaugural season with the Miami Dolphins in 2005 was a mixed bag. It began promisingly with a resounding victory over the Denver Broncos. However, a challenging period followed, with the Dolphins dropping seven of their subsequent nine games. A late-season resurgence saw them win their final six games, narrowly missing the playoffs.

November 27, 2006: University of Alabama's Coaching Change

The University of Alabama made a significant decision on November 27, 2006, by firing head coach Mike Shula. This move sparked speculation about potential replacements, with Nick Saban emerging as a top contender for the position.

December 2006: Saban Addresses Alabama Coaching Rumors

Throughout December 2006, Nick Saban found himself at the center of rumors linking him to the vacant head coaching position at the University of Alabama. Despite facing constant questions from the media, Saban consistently denied these rumors, even stating publicly that he would not be taking the Alabama job.

2006: Alabama's Performance Before Saban

In 2006, prior to Nick Saban's arrival, the Alabama Crimson Tide experienced a challenging season. Their struggles on the field highlighted the need for a coaching change, paving the way for Saban's arrival and the subsequent transformation of the program.

2006: Miami Dolphins' Challenging Season

The 2006 season proved to be a challenging one for the Miami Dolphins under Nick Saban. The team faced setbacks, including the decision to trade for an injured Daunte Culpepper over a then-available Drew Brees, a move Saban later admitted contributed to his decision to leave the Dolphins. Despite a mid-season winning streak, the Dolphins concluded the season with a 6-10 record, marking Saban's first losing season as a head coach.

January 1, 2007: Saban Meets with Alabama Officials

On January 1, 2007, Nick Saban met with officials from the University of Alabama. This meeting followed the conclusion of the Miami Dolphins' season and fueled speculation about Saban's potential move to college football.

January 3, 2007: Saban Accepts Alabama Head Coach Position

On January 3, 2007, Nick Saban made a pivotal career move by accepting the head coach position at the University of Alabama. His decision followed a meeting with Miami Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga. Saban's eight-year, $32 million contract made him one of the highest-paid coaches in both college and professional football at the time.

January 4, 2007: Saban Officially Introduced as Alabama Head Coach

On January 4, 2007, the University of Alabama officially welcomed Nick Saban as their 27th head football coach during a press conference held on campus. This marked the beginning of Saban's tenure with the Crimson Tide.

September 1, 2007: Saban's First Game at Alabama

Nick Saban's first game as Alabama's head coach took place on September 1, 2007, resulting in a decisive 52-6 win over the Western Carolina Catamounts. This victory showcased the team's offensive potential, surpassing their highest point total from any game in the 2006 season.

2007: Nick Saban Begins Coaching at The University of Alabama

In 2007, Nick Saban began his tenure as head coach for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.

2007: Start of 100-Game Win Streak

In 2007, Nick Saban's Alabama team began a 100-game win streak against unranked opponents, which continued until 2022.

2007: Saban's Second Year at Alabama

In 2007, Nick Saban's second year as head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, guiding the team from a disappointing previous season to an undefeated regular season. This achievement highlighted Saban's ability to quickly rebuild a program and establish a winning culture.

September 1, 2008: Saban Featured on Forbes Magazine Cover

Nick Saban's impact at Alabama was recognized on September 1, 2008, when he was featured on the cover of Forbes magazine as "The Most Powerful Coach in Sports." This recognition underscored his influence and success in transforming the Crimson Tide football program.

2008: Alabama's Successful Season Under Saban

In 2008, Nick Saban led Alabama to a successful season, clinching the SEC Western Division championship and a spot in the SEC Championship Game. Despite losing the championship and the Sugar Bowl, Saban received several Coach of the Year awards.

2009: Mark Ingram II Wins Heisman Trophy Under Saban

In 2009, Mark Ingram II, coached by Nick Saban at Alabama, won the Heisman Trophy, a testament to Saban's coaching prowess.

2009: Nick Saban's Second National Championship

In 2009, Nick Saban achieved his second national championship, this time at the helm of the Alabama Crimson Tide, guiding them to both the BCS and AP national championships.

2009: Start of Alabama's Lowest Preseason Ranking

In 2009, Nick Saban's Alabama team received their lowest preseason ranking in eight years, starting at No. 3, a departure from their usual top-five dominance.

2009: Alabama's First Undefeated Regular Season Since 2009

In 2016, Alabama achieved an undefeated regular season for the first time since 2009, demonstrating their consistent ability to remain a top contender in college football.

2009: Cameo Appearance in "The Blind Side"

Nick Saban made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2009 film "The Blind Side," where he opted to draw from a real-life conversation with Michael Oher instead of strictly following the script.

2009: Alabama Sets School Record for Single-Season Victories

The 2009 Crimson Tide set a school record for single-season victories with 14.

2009: Nick Saban's First Undefeated Season at Alabama

The 2009 season marked Nick Saban's first undefeated season as the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

August 2010: Documentary Release: Nick Saban: Gamechanger

The documentary "Nick Saban: Gamechanger," featuring interviews with notable figures like Bill Belichick and Mal Moore, was released in August 2010.

2010: Alabama vs Texas Rematch

In 2010, Alabama and Texas played in the BCS National Championship Game.

2010: Alabama Wins BCS National Championship

In 2010, Alabama won the BCS National Championship, defeating the Texas Longhorns. This victory marked Saban's second national championship and Alabama's 13th.

2010: Mark Ingram II's Return and Alabama's Victory

In 2010, Mark Ingram II returned to the Alabama Crimson Tide, leading them to a victory against Duke.

2010: Last Time Nick Saban Lost Two Regular Season Games

The last time Nick Saban experienced two losses during a regular season was in 2010.

April 16, 2011: Saban Statue Unveiled at Alabama

On April 16, 2011, a statue of Nick Saban was unveiled at the University of Alabama, recognizing his achievements as the football coach.

2011: Alabama's Bowl Victory and Consecutive Wins

In 2011, Alabama played in the Capital One Bowl for the first time, securing a victory against Michigan State and marking their third consecutive 10-win season.

2011: Nick Saban's Third National Championship

In 2011, Nick Saban led the Alabama Crimson Tide to their third national championship under his leadership, securing both the BCS and AP national championships.

2012: Alabama's Shutout Victory Against LSU

Alabama's 2012 victory over LSU stood out as their first shutout against the Tigers since the BCS National Championship Game of that year, highlighting their defensive prowess under Nick Saban.

2012: SEC Championship Victory

In 2012, Alabama, under Nick Saban's leadership, won the SEC Championship, marking their 24th title and Saban's third with the team. This victory highlighted their dominance in the conference.

2012: Successful Season with SEC and BCS Championship Appearances

In 2012, Alabama, under Saban's leadership, experienced a successful season, highlighted by winning the SEC Championship against Georgia (32-28), securing their 23rd conference title and Saban's fourth overall. They also reached the BCS National Championship game for the second consecutive year.

2012: Nick Saban's Fourth National Championship

In 2012, Nick Saban guided the Alabama Crimson Tide to their fourth national championship with him as head coach, claiming victory in both the BCS and AP national championships.

2012: Alabama's Return to National Championship Game

The 2012 season marked Alabama's return to the national championship game after last competing in it in 2012, showcasing their resurgence under Nick Saban's leadership.

2012: Previous Meeting Between Alabama and Michigan

The last encounter between Alabama and Michigan took place in 2012, prior to their game in the Citrus Bowl.

January 7, 2013: BCS National Championship Victory

On January 7, 2013, Nick Saban led Alabama to a resounding 42-14 victory over Notre Dame in the BCS National Championship Game. This marked Alabama's 15th national championship, their third in four years, and their first back-to-back titles since 1978-1979.

2013: Alabama Defeats Notre Dame in BCS National Championship

In 2013, Alabama, coached by Nick Saban, defeated Notre Dame in the BCS National Championship Game.

2013: Nick Saban Inducted into Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

In 2013, Nick Saban received the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

2013: Dominant Start to the Season and Continued Success

The 2013 season began with Alabama ranked No. 1 in both major polls, a first since 2010. The team lived up to the hype, reeling off a series of victories, including a notable win against Texas A&M, avenging the previous year's loss. They also secured their tenth straight win against Ole Miss and extended their winning streak against Arkansas to seven years.

2014: Return to the Top and Another SEC Championship

Despite the previous year's disappointment, Alabama started 2014 strong, achieving a No. 2 ranking. They suffered a setback with a loss to Ole Miss, ending a 10-game win streak. However, the team rebounded, securing significant victories, including a shutout against Texas A&M and their eighth straight win over Tennessee. Alabama finished the regular season 11-1, clinching the SEC West title and eventually winning the SEC Championship against Missouri, Saban's fifth SEC title and Alabama's 24th.

2014: First Playoff Semifinal Loss Since 2014

In 2014, Saban had his first playoff semifinal loss.

2014: Iron Bowl Heartbreak and Sugar Bowl Loss

The 2014 Iron Bowl saw one of the most dramatic finishes in the rivalry's history. With the score tied 28-28 and one second left, Alabama's field goal attempt fell short and was returned for a touchdown by Auburn's Chris Davis, ending Alabama's championship hopes. The Tide went on to lose to Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl, marking Saban's first bowl loss since 2009.

2014: Alabama and Oklahoma Meet in the Sugar Bowl

The 2014 Sugar Bowl featured a matchup between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Oklahoma Sooners.

2015: Derrick Henry Wins Heisman Trophy Under Saban

In 2015, Derrick Henry, coached by Nick Saban at Alabama, won the Heisman Trophy, showcasing Saban's ability to develop talented players.

2015: Nick Saban's Fifth National Championship

In 2015, Nick Saban led the Alabama Crimson Tide to their fifth national championship during his tenure, securing the College Football Playoff championship.

2016: Alabama's Dominant Season and Championship Run

The 2016 season saw Alabama, under Nick Saban, achieve an undefeated regular season and secure their third consecutive SEC Championship title.

2017: Nick Saban's Sixth National Championship

In 2017, Nick Saban achieved his sixth national championship as head coach, guiding the Alabama Crimson Tide to victory in the College Football Playoff championship.

2018: Endorsement of Joe Manchin

Nick Saban endorsed Joe Manchin for Senate in 2018.

2019: Nick Saban on Bill Belichick

In 2019, Nick Saban spoke about his friendship with Bill Belichick.

October 14, 2020: Nick Saban Tests Positive for COVID-19

On October 14, 2020, Nick Saban and Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne tested positive for COVID-19.

2020: DeVonta Smith Wins Heisman Trophy Under Saban

In 2020, DeVonta Smith, under the guidance of Nick Saban at Alabama, earned the Heisman Trophy, solidifying Saban's reputation for nurturing exceptional talent.

2020: Nick Saban's Seventh National Championship

In 2020, Nick Saban made history by winning his seventh national championship as a college football head coach. He achieved this feat by leading the Alabama Crimson Tide to victory in the College Football Playoff championship.

2020: Alabama vs Michigan in Citrus Bowl

The last time Alabama and Michigan met before their 2023 Rose Bowl matchup was in the 2020 Citrus Bowl.

January 5, 2021: DeVonta Smith Wins Heisman Trophy

On January 5, 2021, Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the third player coached by Nick Saban to win the award.

June 7, 2021: Nick Saban Signs Contract Extension with Alabama

On June 7, 2021, Nick Saban agreed to a contract extension with the University of Alabama, extending his tenure as head coach through the 2028 season.

2021: Bryce Young Wins Heisman Trophy Under Saban

In 2021, Bryce Young, mentored by Nick Saban at Alabama, received the Heisman Trophy, further demonstrating Saban's coaching acumen in developing outstanding players.

2022: Alabama Ranked #1 for 15th Consecutive Season

In 2022, Alabama was ranked #1 at some point in the year for the 15th consecutive season.

2022: Support for Voting Rights with Filibuster Exception

In 2022, Nick Saban co-signed a letter advocating for the Freedom to Vote Act but stated his disagreement with eliminating the Senate filibuster.

2023: Nick Saban Appears on The Pat McAfee Show

During the 2023 college football season, Nick Saban appeared as a guest on The Pat McAfee Show.

2023: Nick Saban Ends Tenure at The University of Alabama

In 2023, Nick Saban concluded his time as head coach for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.

2023: Beach House Purchase

In 2023, Nick Saban purchased a beach house in Jupiter, Florida.

January 10, 2024: Nick Saban Retires from Coaching

On January 10, 2024, Nick Saban announced his retirement from coaching after a long and successful career, ending with a record of 201-29 at Alabama.

February 7, 2024: Nick Saban Joins ESPN

On February 7, 2024, ESPN hired Nick Saban for the network's coverage of college football, including College GameDay, NFL Draft, and SEC Media Days.

2028: End Date of Nick Saban's Contract Extension

The year 2028 marks the end of Nick Saban's contract extension with the University of Alabama.

History of Nick Saban in Timeline