Nick Saban's Shocking Pick for the Top College Football Job—Is Your Team in Trouble?

Nick Saban, often hailed as the greatest head coach in college football history, has left an indelible mark on the sport. His coaching career spans decades and includes seven claimed FBS national championships—more than any other coach in FBS history—earned during his tenures at Louisiana State University (LSU) and the University of Alabama. Specifically, Saban's national titles came in 2003 with LSU and from 2009 to 2020 with Alabama, alongside 11 Southeastern Conference (SEC) titles.

In 2025, Saban was rightfully elected to the College Football Hall of Fame, concluding his illustrious career with an impressive record of 297 wins, 71 losses, and one tie (.806 winning percentage). This places him fifth for the most wins in college football history, having made significant stops at Toledo, Michigan State, LSU, and Alabama. While Saban is synonymous with Alabama's dynasty, his first major achievement came when he led LSU to a national title, establishing himself as a formidable coach long before his remarkable tenure in Tuscaloosa.

Recently, Saban's influence extended to the coaching landscape once again. On Tuesday, reports emerged that Lane Kiffin, the newly appointed head coach at LSU, credited Saban with playing a pivotal role in his decision to leave the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). Kiffin revealed that Saban urged him to accept what he described as “the best job in the country.” In Kiffin's words, "When I called Coach Saban and talked it through with him, he said: 'You know, Lane, you'll always regret if you don't go to LSU — it's the best job in the country.'

Kiffin, who has a rich coaching resume, quickly rose through the ranks of college football. After serving as an offensive assistant and offensive coordinator at the University of Southern California (USC), Kiffin became the NFL's youngest head coach when he took over the Oakland Raiders in 2007. However, his tenure in the NFL was brief and less successful, finishing with a record of 5–15. He returned to the college ranks with a one-year stint as the head coach at the University of Tennessee in 2009, followed by a four-year period at USC.

Before taking the reins at LSU, Kiffin had significant success at Ole Miss, where he posted a 55–19 record, marking the most successful stretch in the program's history. He achieved three consecutive double-digit win seasons, elevating the Rebels into College Football Playoff contention. Kiffin's decision to leave Ole Miss came quickly; he departed on November 30, 2025, and was introduced as LSU’s head coach the following day, signing a lucrative seven-year contract worth $91 million.

At his introductory press conference, Kiffin repeatedly referred to LSU as “the best job in football.” He noted that in consultations with various figures, including Saban, he was advised that passing on this opportunity would lead to significant regret. Kiffin emphasized that the decision was also influenced by LSU's substantial resources, strong football tradition, extensive recruiting base, and institutional support—all factors contributing to his decision to join the Tigers.

As Saban continues to shape the future of college football, both through his coaching prowess and his mentorship of emerging coaches like Kiffin, the landscape of the sport remains dynamic. His influence—marked by a remarkable track record and deep connections within the college football community—will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.