What's holding up a deal with Jimbo Fisher as FSU's new Offensive Coordinator? Look no further than Nick Saban. According to syndicated radio host and former coach Max Howell, Bama will be offering Saban a deal he can't refuse on Dec. 31st, immediately after the Dolphins final game of the year.
If Saban takes the job, Fisher would be his first choice as Bama's O.C. where he would have full control of the offense. But if Nick takes his time to decide? Then Jimbo would have to fish or cut bait with FSU. Recruiting season will be in full-swing and the Noles can't afford to wait. The incentive for Jimbo at FSU is a shot at becoming head coach in two or three years when Bowden steps down — an opportunity he wouldn't get at Bama.
Why would Saban return to the college game? Howell hears that Nick hates the NFL and his wife hates Miami. In fact, earlier this month Birmingham News columnist Ray Melick wrote: "If [they're] willing to wait until the NFL season is over, Alabama has a chance to get Nick Saban. People who have been around Saban say now that he has been back in the NFL, he has expressed regret over leaving the college game. They say Saban has come to believe the college game is more rewarding, because of the chance to teach and impact lives. If Saban isn't enjoying himself, if he doesn't make the playoffs and for whatever reason thinks next year might be his last year anyway, why not make the jump now?"
Howell also told ChantRant that if Saban doesn't take the job, Bama's back-up is Rick Neuheisel. According to Howell, Neuheisel — currently QB Coach of the Ravens — is tight with some of Alabama's Board of Trustees. We'll continue to cover the Tide's soap opera for one big reason: our game on Sept. 29th next year.
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