Nick Saban Addresses Cheating Allegations: ‘We Developed Players’
During an appearance on ESPN’s College Gameday ahead of the Indiana-Notre Dame College Football Playoff matchup, comedian and Fighting Irish fan Shane Gillis made a lighthearted jab about Alabama football and former head coach Nick Saban paying players. The moment resurfaced later in the show when host Pat McAfee brought it up while Saban was seated at the desk.
“You called him a cheater earlier,” McAfee said, pointing to the legendary Alabama coach.
Gillis quickly tried to lighten the mood, joking about Saban’s hat, which had been compared to Indiana Jones’ signature look throughout the program.
“I’m joking,” Gillis said. “Is this not a fun show? It’s a serious show? Alabama Jones is very serious. Get the whip, Indy.”
However, Saban, who led Alabama to six national championships and another during his tenure at LSU, didn’t seem amused. After retiring in early 2023, Saban explained his coaching philosophy and defended his reputation.
“I do believe in integrity,” Saban said. “I always tried to run the program that way, so players had a better chance to be successful in life. We made more money in the NFL than any other school—61 players in the league. That was how we cheated: we developed players.”
Saban, now working in an advisory role at Alabama and as an ESPN analyst, delivered his statement with such conviction that Gillis backtracked on his earlier joke.
“I’m so sorry,” Gillis said with a laugh.
