So Saban goes to Bama, here's my question:

[SMU Football Blog]

Honestly, I don't think it was about the money. Saban was making more at Miami on a per year basis. His job there was secure for the short term. If Saban didn't work out at Miami he was going to get offered a college job in five minutes making seven figures guaranteed. The contract length and dollars made the Alabama job more palatable, for sure, but I think the money was more of a wash than people acknowledge.

[RGV Pony]

Big Whoop- Ti-Do. People get so worked up about what is simply a personal employment decision. Gee he took the 40 Million. Shocking! That Bastard. Players who commit to a school because of a Coach deserve what they get. Obviously, Alabama was waiting until the end of Miami's season in order not to be accused of tortious interference with contract during their season.

Would he not have been under contract whether the season was ongoing or not?

[Mountain Mustang]

I tend to agree with Stallion here (a first). If it was all about the money he would've stayed at Miami, where he would've made $4.5 mil per year for the next three years. This must have been about the job lifestyle and job security that he could have at Bama vs. the NFL which as Parcells aptly put it "stands for Not For Long." It's certainly not easy-street at Bama but the pressure and grind isn't as bad. I don't doubt that the money certainly helped, but I honestly think that wasn't the determining factor.

One more point, I don't really think that Saban's a "job-hopper" as a lot of people are now saying. He's upgraded his career at every move. If I'm at Mich. St. for 5 years and have an opportunity to go to LSU, I'd take it, it's an upgrade. I then succeed at LSU for 5 more years winning a national Championship and get offers to go to the NFL, the biggest stage in my profession, I would take it too. I then decide that life isn't as good here as it's cracked up to be, life's too short to sit around and be miserable. Bama's in my old conference and they're offering major bucks I take it and live happily ever after. But that's just me.

[Stallion]

He had permission to talk to Alabama after the season ended.

[smupony94]

He had permission to talk to Alabama after the season ended.

And where did you hear that?

[Stallion]

From the Owner of the Miami Dolphins

[smupony94]

From the Owner of the Miami Dolphins

You are God Stallion.

[J.T.supporta]

The Dolphins should hire Mike Shula.

[Stallion]

From press reports;

Soon after the second meeting, Saban's agent, Jimmy Sexton, asked for and received permission from Huizenga for Saban to speak with Alabama officials, a source close to the situation said.

Moore then flew to Miami, where he planned to remain Monday night.