Wednesday, 1/10/24. On January 10, 2024, three legendary coaches, Nick Saban, Bill Belichick, and Pete Carroll, were suddenly removed from their positions. Quickly recapping the gameboard was set to the following configuration:

• SEC Control: The SEC took over officiating and management of Bama games, potentially influencing outcomes.
• Playoff Manipulation: ESPN, Bama NIL collective boosters, and the playoff committee allegedly blocked undefeated Florida State from the playoffs, giving Bama an easier path.
• Favorable Schedule: Bama faced a weaker opponent (Michigan) in the semifinals, aided by a favorable point spread to avoid bias accusations.
• Costly Play: Bama’s quarterback made a crucial mistake, changing a play, audible to a QB Draw, resulting in a losing strategy against Michigan.
• NIL Ineffectiveness: Bama’s traditional recruiting methods (circa 1961) once considered top-tier are obsolete in the new NIL era. Everyone gets a Dodge Charger and $10K now.

These factors suggest that Saban’s “retirement” was prompted by a combination of scandals, poor performance, and outdated practices. Alabama needs to move on and find a new coach who can adapt to the changing landscape of college football.