“RIGHT OR WRONG”? Why Nick Saban was denied entry into SEC Media Days

Since taking over as head coach of Alabama in 2007, Nick Saban has been a fixture at every SEC Media Days, a tradition that continued this year despite his retirement from coaching. The iconic leader of the Crimson Tide was present at the college football extravaganza held in Dallas, even though he stepped down from his position at Alabama six months earlier.

 

Now serving as an analyst for ESPN and its affiliated networks, including the SEC Network, which broadcasts all four SEC Media Days sessions, the 72-year-old Saban found himself in a humorous predicament on arrival. Due to forgetting his credential in his hotel room, he was initially denied access to the ballrooms where he was set to appear behind broadcast tables. This required a quick elevator trip back to his room to retrieve the necessary pass.

 

Despite the minor setback, Saban took the incident in stride, noting that he wasn’t upset about being initially denied access. Once back on air, he seamlessly joined the panel discussions as planned. Reflecting on the changes since his days as a head coach, Saban remarked on the bureaucratic shift, highlighting that he had never needed a credential in his extensive career until now.

 

During the event, Saban addressed the media from various lecterns, including when the major news broke of Oklahoma and Texas joining the SEC in 2021. This year, Saban finds himself in a unique role, not as the head coach of a powerhouse team but as a member of the media covering the newcomers to the 16-team league.

 

“It’s a little different,” Saban commented on attending SEC Media Days in his new capacity. “I’ve never worn a credential in my life,” he added, reminiscing about his past experiences attending the event without needing formal identification. “It’s not like it used to be,” he concluded, acknowledging the changes he has observed over the years.

 

Despite the adjustments, Saban’s presence at SEC Media Days remains a constant, whether as a revered coach or now as a seasoned analyst and commentator. His insights and perspective continue to shape discussions and provide invaluable analysis, ensuring his legacy endures beyond the sidelines of college football.