Challenges in the Life of Nick Saban in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Nick Saban faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Nick Saban is a highly decorated American football coach, now a sportscaster for ESPN. He's widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches ever, leading the University of Alabama to six national championships (2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2020) in nine title game appearances. Previously, he coached the Miami Dolphins (NFL) and at the University of Toledo, Michigan State University and Louisiana State University (LSU). His tenure at Alabama (2007-2023) was marked by unparalleled success, solidifying his legacy in college football.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1975: Earned Master's Degree and Father's Death

In 1975, Nick Saban earned his master's degree in sports administration from Kent State. During his first year of graduate school, Saban's father passed away.

1987: Hired as Assistant for the Houston Oilers

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

1994: Defensive Coordinator for Cleveland Browns

In 1994, Nick Saban was the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, leading the NFL's best defensive unit in points allowed. Saban later described these four years as the "worst of my life".

1995: Head Coach of Michigan State

In 1995, Nick Saban became the head coach of Michigan State, taking over a team that hadn't had a winning season since 1990 and was under NCAA sanctions.

2002: Mixed Results and Cotton Bowl Loss

In 2002, LSU had a season with mixed results, including a loss in the Cotton Bowl Classic to Texas and finishing with an 8-5 record.

2006: Unsuccessful Season with the Miami Dolphins

In 2006, Nick Saban had an unsuccessful season with the Miami Dolphins, finishing 6-10, his first losing season as a head coach. The Dolphins passed on quarterback Drew Brees, traded for Daunte Culpepper, and faced offensive struggles.

2007: Loss snapped a 100-game win streak against unranked opponents dating back to 2007

In 2021, Alabama lost against Texas A&M, which snapped a 100-game win streak against unranked opponents dating back to 2007.

2009: Saban's Second Bowl Loss at Alabama

In 2009, Alabama lost to Utah in the Sugar Bowl. This was Saban's second bowl loss at Alabama.

2010: First time Saban lost two games in the regular season since 2010

In 2019, Saban suffered his second loss of the season to rival #15 Auburn, marking the first time since 2010 that Saban lost two games in the regular season.

2014: Loss in the Iron Bowl and Sugar Bowl

In 2014, Alabama lost the Iron Bowl against Auburn 28–34 after a missed field goal attempt was returned for a touchdown. They finished the regular season 11–1 and received an at-large bid to the 2014 Sugar Bowl, where they lost to Oklahoma 45–31.