Rule changes surrounding NIL (name, image and likeness) over the last few seasons have transformed the college football landscape. While the new rules allow athletes to make money from their brand, not everyone is happy about the direction of the college game.
Legendary coach Nick Saben was part of a roundtable discussion hosted by Texas politician Ted Cruz on Tuesday. The conversation focused on NIL deals and the investment that is coming into college football, in particular. Saban, who recently retired after an extremely successful spell with Louisiana State University and Alabama, made his feeling clear on the subject.
“Well, all the things I believed in for all these years, 50 years of coaching, no longer exist in college athletics. So, it was always about developing players. It was always about helping people be more successful in life,” said Saban.
Nick Saban on the current college football landscape:
"It's whoever wants to pay, the most money raised, the most money to buy the most players is going to have the best opportunity to win."
Thoughts?
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Recruits previously looked at factors such as coaching, university infrastructure, education and NFL prospects prior to the new NIL regulations. The ability to earn money has now created a bidding war among colleges with players usually favoring programs that can guarantee short-term earnings.
“It’s whoever wants to pay, the most money raised, the most money to buy the most players is going to have the best opportunity to win,” added Saban.
Over an impressive 28-year spell as a head coach, Saban went on to win seven National Championships and 11 SEC titles. He has an overall record 297-71-1 with four different college programs.
NIL investments, along with the transfer portal, have completely transformed the landscape of college football recruiting.
